2 level layouts

[guitarman1994]

Howdy all,

Amidst all my brainstorming for a layout idea, I came up with an idea for a 2 level layout. I was thinking more on the lines of 2 separate trains going. The levels would not be connected.  How much higher should the second level be from the first? Secondly, is this even possible for a doorway layout?

Thanks,

Brody

[charliebrown]

It seems to me it would be possible but may have tight turns. I would go 6 inches between levels.

[KRM]

I don't see why you could not do it on a doorway layout. Height can be anything you want. As long as it is high enough to clear what you want to have under it like building and such.

[guitarman1994]

I have all O27 track so I'm not worried about curves. Would it be easier to use the track risers or wood to hold up the second level of track?

Brody

[insfil]

I have a three tier layout, each 3 inches above the other and all are independent of each other track wise. While I do not have any doorways to contend with I would think you could do a gradual elevation approch or a drawbridge type operation when you operate your trains, then raise it back when you are done operating your trains.

I kept the levels at the three inch height for easy access to the topmost level, my layout is an around the wall basement layout and extends outward about 3 to 4 feet in various places.

Good luck in your process! 

[overall]

Please be careful about clearance between tracks that pass over each other. I put a nasty scratch in the cab roof of a brand spanking new UP RS-3. I ran it on a lower level of a layout I had and a screw holding the upper track to a testle peir was just long enough to reach down and scatch it. It just about killed my soul when it happened.

George

[BigAl 956]

Lionel tunnels and bridges have a 6 inch clearance so that should be your minimum. There are some cars with roof action like the cop and hobo that will not clear that height so watch out for that.