Sooooo, I have an interesting idea. What if you built part of your model railroad like this: one end would be a reverse loop, and the other end a yard. In the middle, connecting the two would be a nice double or maybe triple track mainline. The loop would later become a helix, so trains would hypothetically go from the yard, up through the helix, then run around on the second level as either a continuos run, or it's final destination. Then, the newly composed train (or old one, I just don't know yet) would travel back down the helix to where it started and probably be broken up. I would start building the first level of the layout and run trains on that for a bit before moving on. So, I am wondering, could you run a train from the loop to the yard, break it up, make a new one, and send it back out? Yeah I know the loop isn't realistic, but is the yard idea? Is it accurate to have a stub ended yard that breaks up incoming trains with a locomotive pair, use the same pair to pull the new train, and send it back the same way it came in? I can post sketches if needed. Also, I am expecting heavy critiques on this, so fire away!
I'm beginning to realize that Windows 10 and sound decoders have a lot in common. There are so many things you have to change in order to get them to work the way you want.
BNSF UP and others modeler So, I am wondering, could you run a train from the loop to the yard, break it up, make a new one, and send it back out?
So, I am wondering, could you run a train from the loop to the yard, break it up, make a new one, and send it back out?
Can and did. At the recent Clovis CA Free-mo setup, there was a passenger terminal and a freight yard that both fed a mainline that ended in a multi-track return loop. It worked just fine.
Yeah I know the loop isn't realistic, but is the yard idea? Is it accurate to have a stub ended yard that breaks up incoming trains with a locomotive pair, use the same pair to pull the new train, and send it back the same way it came in?
It's accurate enough for most of us out here. If you want more accuracy, you're going to have to start "operating", which is more complicated. Some call it "fun".
Ed
Yeah, I do want to get into operations. Remember that other thread? I strive for reasonable accuracy.
BNSF UP and others modeler Yeah, I do want to get into operations. Remember that other thread? I strive for reasonable accuracy.
Sadly, I do not remember that other thread. Perhaps I did not read it, as it is not compulsory on this forum.
Operating looks like fun--enjoy!
That's exactly what I'm building. My lower level at one end will be the yard where I will make up or break down sets of trains. Once they depart, they will switch out industries on the lower level, then, if need be, head up the helix to the upper level, and switch out industries on the upper level. Once finished, then head back down to staging, unless there's a reason for the train to tie down for the day. A helix, in the modeling world, is used to 'move' a train from one scene to another.
Since this layout will be point to point, I'm thinking of throwing in a commuter train when I have another operator, just to add some additional operations. I'm designing it mainly to be run solo, but planning on having one if not two other people over for some operating sessions. Still call it 'fun'
Neal
Sure you read it! You were the main responder to my questions. Here it is: http://cs.trains.com/mrr/f/13/t/270187.aspx
nealknows, what are the dimensions of your layout? Do you have any diagrams, scetches, etc? I have 6 3/4 ft by 11ft to work with.
BNSF UP and others modeler Is it accurate to have a stub ended yard that breaks up incoming trains with a locomotive pair, use the same pair to pull the new train, and send it back the same way it came in?
Short answer. Generally, no. Unless its the end of a branch, so the majority of cars it pulls into the yard don't go to the yard. They really wouldn't switch it as much as run around it and go back the next day.
Dave H. Painted side goes up. My website : wnbranch.com
Hello there (name?),
The room is 12x13 and the helix fits on a 71"x71" table. I'll try to find the pics of my work in progress and post it in the next day or two..
Oh, thank you! Guess your layout plan won't fit in my space, but maybe I can get some ideas...
Here's what I'm working on for my layout in Florida. Room is 12x13, but you can do some selective compression and tweak it to your liking. The depth is 24" lower level and the upper is 18"
Here's the helix as it's being built:
There will be various industries on both levels. Against the wall next will be a small commuter type train station with 2 tracks, maybe...
2 questions: What are the radii on the helix, and is it offset? Thanks for the pictures!
Outside radius 32" inside 29.75" The upper level will come out against the right wall and the lower level starts the grade in the front of the helix. Hope this helps..
I have begun construction of the new layout. Will try to post pics and track plan soon.....