looking for layout feedback / ideas please

[Anonymous]

Hi' i've been building this layout for the better part of 6 months. It is "N" scale 10' x 10' x 24" wide/ With dogbones of about 32" on the ends. I would like to make some real progress while I am off over the holidays. I'm happy with the basic design but unhappy with the yard area. It seems like alot of wasted space and not realistic. I would like a small yard and engine service area. There are three photos of the left / mid / right sections and a rough drawing. The basic layout is double main that crosses over itself in the mid area. Using Unitrack. The Yard area is a flat area 2" above ground zero. Parts of the layout rise and fall via Woodland Scenics Risers. The area of the mine to the right will built on the side of a mountain / tunnel. and is at 2" high.

The mine spur on the left is at ground level.

The yard area and the spurs are not fastened down at this time. Thanks in advance for any ideas.

http://www.saycheesephoto.com/model_trains/layout_left.jpg

http://www.saycheesephoto.com/model_trains/layout_mid.jpg

http://www.saycheesephoto.com/model_trains/layout_updt.jpg

Layout Design:
http://www.saycheesephoto.com/model_trains/layout_updt.jpg

[GDRMCo]

cant see your pictures

[Anonymous]

I'm not sure what the problem is, on My PC the pictures show up in IE Explorer, but not on Mozilla or Firefox. Try using IE Explorer if you got it. Maybe someone can suggest a better way for me to post the pictures, Dave

[mwalther]

I see them fine in IE

[mwalther]

I see them fine in IE

[Anonymous]

I tried some things today. Real easy with Unitrack when nothing is nailed down. I can configure a small 4 track yard, plus put in an Atlas TT. That will give me more than 2 tracks for Engine storage. Question. Are tuntables only a holdover from the steam age ? Did RR's stop building them after steam was gone ? I'm trying to do transition but good steam is hard to find in "N", in Reading, so most of my engines are Diesel. My only steam is going back to Bachman for repair. Thanks Dave

[Anonymous]

Sorry I can't contribute a more constructive reply, but I'm seeing the pix fine in Firefox 1.0.

...but as long as I'm here - have you read Armstrong's book - "Track Planning for Realistic Operation"? It contains some great info on yard design.

John

[Anonymous]

Well I think the track plan looks outstanding. It dosn't appear that you will have any wiring problems with the over/under track.
Nice latout. Keep the posts updated.