any good sites for layout ideas?

[jaretos]

I am getting ready to build benchwork for a 4x8, possibly 5x9 (depending on final measurements) layout. I have 101 layouts book and have done some other searches, but wondering if there are any other resources for layout plans. I just want to make sure I havn't missed anything!

john

[IRONROOSTER]

John,
The Model Railroader site (see top of page) has this page with 4 layouts http://www.trains.com/Content/Dynamic/Articles/000/000/001/215lorqk.asp
Enjoy
Paul

[tstage]

John,

Even though you already have 6 posts, I want to personally welcome you to the forum. Good to have you aborad! [:)]

Check out the following site: http://www.naisp.net/users/mfischer/m_train2.htm

It's mainly N-scale layouts but should work for HO if you just double the size.

John, I presume this is your first layout. I just want to encourage you initially to NOT bite off more than you can chew. Decide on a simple but operationally interesting layout and cut your teeth on learning the basics of MRRing (i.e. benchwork, layout, trachwork, wiring, scenery, kit bulding, etc.) before moving onto a layout that is more challenging. Obviouisly, it depends entirely on your skill and comfort level.

At the same time, don't be afraid to take on learning something new or ask (what you may perceive as dumb) questions here on the forum. Most of the guys are very patient and always glad to give you a hand with whatever you are working on or have questions about. After a while, when your experience level increase, you'll be on the giving end of things.

One last bit of advice: Use the largest radii curves on your mainline that you can get away with. I have a 4 x 8' and run R22" curves. (I would go bigger but I'd have to break the law of physics to do that.) Your layout will both look and run better. R18" curves on the sidings and yards is fine


John, do keep us posted on your progress....

Tom

[hminky]

I have a web article with my experiences in trackplanning a 4x8 layout at:

http://www.pacificcoastairlinerr.com/4x8/trackplanning/

Thank you if you visit
Harold

[HAZMAT9]

John:

Here's a site where I found my layout to build:

http://www.naisp.net/users/mfischer/m_train2.htm

It's pretty informative and has quite a few layouts, mostly in N an HO scales. My railroad was in fact shown in N which I converted up to HO. It has quite a few trackplans, let me know if it helps.... Steve [:D]

[HAZMAT9]

Tom:

Looks like your link is the same as mine, just realized it. Your link isn't connecting probably because you have a (.) after the htm. Steve

[tstage]

Steve,

Thanks for the heads up. It's fixed now. Ya' know, Steve, I usually check that before posting. The one time I don't and.... Anyway, thanks! [:)]

Tom

[Anonymous]

Here's a site which has layouts you can operate:

http://www.trainplayer.com

-- Jim

[DSchmitt]

Great ideas for extremely small layouts, that be incorporated into larger layouts Micro Layouts for Model Railroaders:

http://carendt.com/

[snowey]

http://www.thortrains.net


he has track plans in both HO & N scales.

[Anonymous]

Think small http://carendt.com/microplans/index.html