I was on here about a month ago getting help to build a 10' x 10' layout. However, now there's some debate on whether or not I can actually use the whole space. I was thinking, then, that I could do a 2-layer layout along the wall. I'm thinking about 2' deep with 18" between layers, HO scale, too. I was also thinking of using a helix to get from one layer to the other.
Now, my question is, do any of you have advice on building a layout like this style or know of someplace that would have help on this?
Are you wanting a free standing layout, or something attached to the wall with wall brackets or something?
Also, if space is a concideration, a helix takes up an amazing amount of room. Have you thought about a train elevator?
pcarrell wrote:Are you wanting a free standing layout, or something attached to the wall with wall brackets or something?Also, if space is a concideration, a helix takes up an amazing amount of room. Have you thought about a train elevator?
It would have to be free-standing, but it would all be against the wall.
How about a nolix?
In your area 10 x 10, a helix at 24" radii would take up 4'4"x4'4".
I'm thinking I'll go with a train elevator of some sort. That brings up the question, though, how do I reverse the trains on this thing? They'll wind up backwards on the other level. I could build a giant wye, but that'll take up a good chunk of space.
I'm still wondering, though, what kinds of construction techniques might work for building the actual layout? Is there a tried andtrue method of supporting a second layer on free-standing benchwork?
I have a double deck shelf layout mounted to my walls, but it's an N-Scale layout. My helix is in a 3x3 foot space for getting between levels. Grade is just over 2% I think. As long trains are double headed, it's no problem getting up.
I used shelving standards and brackets for the layout benchwork.
Here's an early pic of the helix. It's not pretty, but it gets the job nicely done. I've got about 1.5 turns to go now to complete the level transition.
Considering your space restraints, the the requirements needed for a helix, have you considered switching to N-scale? You'd be able to fit almost twice the railroad in the space has you would of HO.
Shaun
Re helix vs. nolix.
Using 30 inch radious curves at the corner once around the layout would gain about 9 inches per turn at a 2 percent grade. You could achieve a 16 inch separation with less than two complete turns.
The nolix does not have to be around the perimeter. It can be snaked around the layout using S curves until you reach the area where you wish it to enter the upper level.
Likewise, you can start it using a different starting point to result in it ending where you want it. Nothing to prevent a level space or two between the ends either.
I am building a 14 x 19 foot layout in my gargage using 30 inch minimum radious curves and a helix is even too large for that space. It would take up a 5.5 foot x 5.5 foot space which is not acceptible to me.
Wikious wrote: I'm thinking I'll go with a train elevator of some sort. That brings up the question, though, how do I reverse the trains on this thing? They'll wind up backwards on the other level. I could build a giant wye, but that'll take up a good chunk of space.
If this is the case you may have to add a loop somewhere or just do the helix.
I wanted a freestanding, against the wall layout too. I have two sceniced levels with staging under the lower one (N scale). The staging and the lower sceniced level share their benchwork. There is also a freestanding section out into the room. Here are some pics to give you an idea.
These are a long time ago.
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/7Thirdday112-5-06.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/8Thirdday212-5-06.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/9Thirdday312-5-06.jpg
Then I added supports for the backdrop.
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/7-17-070.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/7-17-072.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/7-17-073.jpg
And finally, the backdrop started to go up.
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/7-22-070.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/7-22-071.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/7-22-076.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/7-22-075.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/7-22-073.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/7-22-074.jpg
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j319/pcarrell/Autumns%20Ridge/7-22-072.jpg
And thats when life got in the way, and I've been stalled there for quite some time now. So far, only the staging and a small section of what will be some of the lower sceniced area is currently installed. Maybe soon I can break free and do more.