Multi-Level Layouts...Anybody?

[DMNolan]

I model in HO scale. I should have included that in my original post. I built the helix big because I didn't want to have problems with operation (I wanted a easy grade) and I had the space. It is in a back corner of the basement. I have used a helix on several previous layouts and learned the hard way about steep grades and single track helix. A double track helix adds flexability (at least on my track plan.

[Anonymous]

What scale is the layut with all the photos of his helix? I believe it is and 82" helix?

Concerning the guy that sees no purpose in the helix. You must have a very large space to build your layout in or be using a very small scale. The purpose of the helix is simple. to allow more space to build your layout scenes within a smaller room. Bu using a helix, though not prototypical, it allows easier acces to multi-level designs which allow for more trackage. You can't get something for nothing. Yes, your trains will be out of site for a period of time, unless yo design a special loop in which they appear out in the open on a trestle or something. If I have a room that will allow a 12 ft by 30 fot layout I can expand my layout size and scenery opportunities by going mulit-level. With a 6 ft helix (just throwing a simple number out there for perspective), I can now have (basically) tow 12 ft by 24 ft areas with which to build in instead of just one 12 ft by 30 ft area. You could forego the helix for a steady climb all the way around the layout from one level to the next (would be more prototypical), but this could create many operational and layout design limitations. As far as multiple trains go. If it is your home layout and you are the only operator, then one train and the'primitive block/analog/dc' system would be "right up your alley". If it is a club or a home layout with multiple operators you need to do something else. We have gone DCC. NO BLOCKS! We "drive our trains" not the track.. This is way more 'prototypical' than a one train at a time 'block layout' deal. Yes, the helix is really not prototypical, but it serves it's purpose and is the price one must pay to gain layout space. If you can find a way to get get something for nothing, please, by all means, let me know.

[8D]

[DMNolan]

I am building a multi level layout. I am using a helix to connect the upper, lower and staging levels. Here is the links to a few under construction photos. My helix is big, so that my not help solve your problems. You also could use an around the room helix, where you layout climbs most of the way around you room to get to the upper deck level.

The helix is 82" wide. The two tracks are 38" and 35" radius curves. I have no trouble pulling 15-20 cars or so with two engines. Each turn climbs 4". This part of the helix will climb 2 1/2 turns. There will be another helix on top of this one to connect the main level with the upper level. I should fini***he helix this week. The rest of the curves are cut. I am wiring as I go.

http://webpages.charter.net/dmnolan/PB270065.JPG
http://webpages.charter.net/dmnolan/PB270066.JPG
http://webpages.charter.net/dmnolan/PB270068.JPG
http://webpages.charter.net/dmnolan/PB270070.JPG
http://webpages.charter.net/dmnolan/PB280071.JPG
http://webpages.charter.net/dmnolan/PB280072.JPG
http://webpages.charter.net/dmnolan/PB280073.JPG

[ndbprr]

I have gone round and round on this helix thing several times (pun intended). It looks good on paper until you start to consider maintenance of two levels or more and what it truly means. A 30" radius helix is 15' of track per loop. at 4" rise per loop you need three loops minimum to get 12" separation between levels. Want 18"? add another loop and a half which means you are going to use 45' to 68' of track in the helix so the train is going to be gone from sight for a long time. Want a larger radius? Add 3' of track to each loop for each 6" of radius. The you have a cantalievered level to consider and the construction requirements. Why do we want to do this? We'd do better to model a subway and just have holes in the facia where the stations are. The idea is to see trains not hear them. I'm back to one level and large radius turnouts. We want more accurately scaled and prototype equipment and then make a layout for the stuff that deifes logic. Shouldn't we be making #12 -16 turnouts and larger radii to make the realism greater? Granted some (maybe most) don't have the space or time to do that and I'm not knocking anyone who thinks differently. I'm not a rivet counter. I am just being drawn in this direction because one of the facets of the hobby is you acquire knowledge along the way. Intentionally and unintentionally. Don't we need to process all the information to produce the best modeling we are capable of? I have no problem whatsoever with people who subscribe to the typical viewers question of, How many trains can you run at once?" Or are we trying to reproduce a model of the real thing? If so helixs, 18" radius curves, condensed buildings and #4 turnouts don't cut it. Please do not get angry at my comments I am not trying to denigrate anyone or what they want to do. I am just presenting my current thinking after giving the idea of a helix serious thought and almost building one. In case you wondered I don't suffer with my insanity I enjoy every minute of it.

[Anonymous]

A helix in a space your size will eat up a lot of space. I'm assuming you are in HO. It would be easier in N.

I'm editing this in, I must have had a bad night last night as this is the second post where I just didn't get it right. You have a good space for a helix. The easiest way to build it is by doing it in the link above. The support lumber he uses (on the vertical) is a bit much, I would use something not quite as wide.

By the way folks, occassionally I tell people they can use small cheap L brackets in helix construction. In the picture of the Helix at the Gauge forum given in the above post by Glen, you will see the L brackets at work. L brackets are the easiest way to build a helix... trust me.

[Anonymous]

::drooling:: i wish i had that kind of space......but thats kind of what im doing, instead of a bare staging area the staging area will be the rail yard.......i wonder what the dimensions of that ?helix? (is that what you guys call a spiral incline?) is....

Ive got a 10x12 space to work with but i think i could manage something like that....going to the drawing board......

[Anonymous]

check the 4th image from top on this link for a nice helix.

http://www.the-gauge.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2569&perpage=15&pagenumber=4

Also there has been discussion on a 'nolix' - same idea, but stretched out long and thin so the trains are visible for part of their transit.

[Anonymous]

Hey all, im currently designing a 3 level layout and one possible underground level for coalmine, goldmine and an abandoned mine.....Anyway my question is do any of you have a multi level layout and if so how do you get the trains from one level to another? I dont have a 30x30' area to work in so im trying to improvise, im currently thinking a spiral of some sorts but im not sure if that will work or not. So tell me how you get your trains from one level to another. Thanks Alot and have a good day