4x8 Layout Plans

[Texas Zepher]

Jono

I'm doing my first layout and starting with a 4x8 HO scale.  I can't decide what layout to do.  Could someone give me a hand?

I could decide for you, but what would be the fun in that?  In the limitations of a 4x8 one has to make choices. Make a list of things that are required in the layout, desired, and nice to have.  Then start eliminating the 100s of 4x8 plans on those criteria.

For examples:

1. Do you want continuously running trains?  That will eliminate many layouts.

2. Is there a preference of basic layout shape - simple oval, dual oval, figure 8, folded dog bone?

3. Can it have grades or do you require all flat?

4.  Lots of track or lots of scenery?

 All of these sorts of questions will narrow it down further and further until there is the layout for you.

 

 

[UncBob]

 Here is the best one I have seen

Variety but no clutter and 2 trains can run at the same time 

http://www.layoutvision.com/id48.html

[gregc]

 http://www.layoutvision.com/id28.html

[steinjr]

Jono

I'm doing my first layout and starting with a 4x8.  I can't decide what layout to do.  Could someone give me a hand?

Hi Jon (or whatever your name is) --

Welcome to the forums.

You have already gotten the link to the St. Louis NMRA website and their Gateway Central layout plans. 

 Suggest you also follow this link two links and read this before you get too deep into a specific track plan: http://www.layoutvision.com/id28.html

 There is also a couple of pretty decent H0 scale 4x8 foot layout plans (if you have sufficient floor space) linked from that page.

 I also (briefly) considered a H0 scale 4x8 layout, but found that I did not have room for a layout that made so inefficient use of available space in my home, so I built this layout instead:

 

 Smile,
 Stein

 

[hardcoalcase]

The best 4x8  HO layout I've seen was a (small radius 15"?) loop-d-loop, with 3(?) short passing sidings and a wye with a small 3 track yard at one end.  The genius of it was real point-to-point running capability or continous run.  Obviously intended as a short line with small locos and not-too-long freight cars.

The plywood sheet was cut and re-assembled into a trapizoid shape.

I recall this being in MR... anyone know which issue?

Anyway, as neat as I think this layout is, I'd recommend building modules in 2 x (4, 6, 8) sizes that could be transported.

Jim 

 

Jim

 

[Eric97123]

Order this book or maybe check your library for it, mine had it,

Basic Model Railroad Track Plans: Small Starter Layouts You Can Build by Kent J Johnson

 It has several great layouts for 4x8, I went with the St Paul Central Layout from the book because it has some spurs than can be used if you expand the layout without having to rip up too much track

[IRONROOSTER]

 

 Check this site for ideas http://www.gatewaynmra.org/project.htm

The NMRA beginner's guide http://www.nmra.org/beginner/ includes a 4x8 that can be expanded.

If you are a subscriber you can check the Interactive>Track Plan Database on this site.

Enjoy

Paul

 

[markpierce]

Jono

I'm ... starting with a 4x8. 

Why do you want to start with a layout the size and shape of a sheet of plywood?   A free-standing, rectangular layout occupies a lot of space (virtually a small bedroom) if one includes the room to access the layout.  ...  Regardless, the most important criteria for a first layout is for the curves and turnouts to be large enough to accommodate the locomotives and cars you plan to operate.

Mark

[Jacktal]

You have a better chance to get competent answers if you state a few details like scale,what type of trains you'd like and what you'd like them to do like switching,constant running,etc.There are plenty of plans for a 4X8 available online for instance.

[Jono]

I'm doing my first layout and starting with a 4x8 HO scale.  I already have the benchwork built, but I can't decide what layout to do.  Could someone give me a hand?