In response to comments made on this post
http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/t/141161.aspx
here is a shelf switching layout from www.thortrains.com. What's everyones thoughts on this being used to connect two dogbones? I could either add second track at the top for the other direction mainline or add one at the bottom. I know I would have to adjust some track spacing, but, right now, just looking at operational issues.
A lot of you came up with some problems with the other plans I've put up, that I didn't catch, so all 'alls input is welcome, as it gets the gears turning.
There are so many better choices, if I were you I wouldn't waste my time trying to incoproate this mess. There are some truly awful designs on that site, it's unfortunate that so many people refer to it.
Layout Design GalleryLayout Design Special Interest Group
If I was a switch crew, Id be shedding tears at this track situation.
Take a second look at the Timesaver from John Allen and also one called Heart of Georgia.
Take a look at Space Mouse's web links regarding beginning layouts etc.
You say you have a dogbone idea. That's great. Work on different dogbone patterns. Fold it, Flip it, twist it and then fold it. See what you come up with. Try to get the main and curves down before trying to figure out what kind of switching (If any) that can be done.
Last ChanceIf I was a switch crew, Id be shedding tears at this track situation. Take a second look at the Timesaver from John Allen and also one called Heart of Georgia.
Timesavers are not for layouts! That's not their intent or their purpose!
A ISL, or "Industrial Switching Layout" doesn't have to be some complex puzzle. In fact, finding a industrial complex setup to be switched like a timesaver would probably result in that being the last job anyone bids on, just because sheer stupidity in the number of moves it takes to efficiently switch it.
Try to choose what elements you want to include on your layout. Heavy urban line with lots of traffic running through it with one or two locals working all the customers? A lightly used branch line with one or two customers every ten miles?
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Okay, not surprised not a good one, as I've yet to pick one that is. Although, this one i was imagining running some trains and switching and it got ugly quick. I figured it was done more as a puzzle the a miniature railroad.
So, I'll do the dew with dogbone, fold, spindle, and mutilate it and then post it for all to please to enjoy.
Also thinkin of just building some d---- benchwork and seeing where it takes me.
Thanks for the inputs, always appreciated.
And so it goes.....