Critique & suggestions wanted...

[Anonymous]

Hi everyone, I'm currently working on a trackplan for my 1st permant, 'real' layout. I've started an MSN Group to post the track plan and description of the layout. http://groups.msn.com/UnionPacificAlleghenySundivision/_whatsnew.msnw

Membership is free and open to anyone.

I'm asking that any and all model railroaders offer their thoughts, suggestions, critiques or pretty much anything else on the track plan and building/operating the layout.

Please take a look. Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Bill

[dehusman]

If it goes in a 9.5x9.5 ft room you will want to move the yard towards the center so you can reach everything.

I don't like the "crazy eight' in the lower left hand corner. I think it will require a very steep grade on the inside track, assuming 3 inches of track separation, and about 60 inches of run around that loop, that gives you a 5% grade, very steep. Lose the bridge over teh mine and just run the tracks around the mine and drop the grade to 2-3% max.

Dave H.

[Anonymous]

Griz, Dave is correct about the gradient problem. This critique is strictly one person's opinion and shouldn't be taken for anything else. I feel the layout is too busy for the deminsions involved. Of course, in N gauge much more is possible but as Dave pointed out, the figure 8 area may take on the appearance of a L.A. freeway. I would opt for more scenic and small industrial areas for good balance.