REAL ESTATE GRANTED - NEED IDEAS

[Anonymous]

Hi Modelers,

I have been granted building rights in the back half of our garage (sigh...no basement), the overall area will be 22 x 14 with the last 6 feet of the 22 foot length moving out to 18 feet in width from 14 feet. So it is basically a rectangle with a bit of additional space at one end. I want to model the SP&S from Portland, Oregon to Wishram, Washington; but would like to be able to have loops at each end so trains can leave final destination scene at each end and return as if they went somewhere and came back(continuous running is important). Have looked at numerous track plans.....got some ideas....but really would like to have input on any good ideas from more experienced modelers than myself. The only restriction is that I prefer a one level layout and the main yards at each end will be it, no hidden yards that I can perceive.
Thanks for any and all input.

[simon1966]

Hi Don, welcome to the forum. Most likely you are going to have to create your own plan for the space that you have. But, you can draw inspiration from layouts featured in the mags. I think you need to make a few decisions before going too far. What scale would be an early one to make. Since you know the location of your RR, build a list of industries that you will have on the layout, or will imagine are off the layout. Perhaps the era you are modelling will influence things as well. Anyway, when you have a good idea of the types of trains you will run, you can determine train length, and this will start to define parameters such as the yard sizes and the length of passing sidings. Also, the type of trains will determmine the radius of curves that you will use. Larger radius curves are not only desirable for look, but often essential if you are running passenger and long locomotives. So armed with some parameters like this, you can start to design for your space a layout that will meet your needs. It can also, stop you from buying rolling stock that does not fit your layout. I for example, purchased the entire set of CB&Q Walthers stream line pasenger cars. My passing sidings are just not long enough to accomodate the train, so I really can not run it all together, unless there is nothing else on the layout. Anyway, keep asking and good luck.