P&LE
Member
Gents,
After a long layoff from the hobby, and a couple of false starts, I am FINALLY ready to begin construction of a small layout. I may be moving (yet again) within the next year, so I've decided to build a 4x8 that I can take with me when/if I move. This will not be my "final" layout, more of a learning experience, but I do want it to be a quality layout that I will enjoy operating, at least for a while. I "know" I can better utilize my space with something other than a 4x8, but my space is also my home office, and I plan to put the layout on wheels so it can be rolled against a wall when not in use. Plus, this particular 4x8 track plan sort of "speaks" to me and I think it will be fun to build and operate, without taxing my skills. Finally, when I move, the 4x8 will be easier to take with me and possibly incorporate into a larger plan later.
So, I'm leaning towards the Virginian plan that was featured in Model Railroader (I have the issue here somewhere, just have to find it). I may even (if time in my current home allows) add a removable extension to the end of the branchline. I will model it as a fictional coal hauling branch of the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie RR, operating in Pennsylvania.
Any thoughts on this plan?? I think it's a pretty "optimal" 4x8 design. I will modify it a bit, mostly by hiding the outside of the mainline at the top of the plan, and using it as a hidden staging track.
Thanks for any input
P&LE
After a long layoff from the hobby, and a couple of false starts, I am FINALLY ready to begin construction of a small layout. I may be moving (yet again) within the next year, so I've decided to build a 4x8 that I can take with me when/if I move. This will not be my "final" layout, more of a learning experience, but I do want it to be a quality layout that I will enjoy operating, at least for a while. I "know" I can better utilize my space with something other than a 4x8, but my space is also my home office, and I plan to put the layout on wheels so it can be rolled against a wall when not in use. Plus, this particular 4x8 track plan sort of "speaks" to me and I think it will be fun to build and operate, without taxing my skills. Finally, when I move, the 4x8 will be easier to take with me and possibly incorporate into a larger plan later.
So, I'm leaning towards the Virginian plan that was featured in Model Railroader (I have the issue here somewhere, just have to find it). I may even (if time in my current home allows) add a removable extension to the end of the branchline. I will model it as a fictional coal hauling branch of the Pittsburgh & Lake Erie RR, operating in Pennsylvania.
Any thoughts on this plan?? I think it's a pretty "optimal" 4x8 design. I will modify it a bit, mostly by hiding the outside of the mainline at the top of the plan, and using it as a hidden staging track.
Thanks for any input
P&LE
