2 Train 4x8?

[WickhamMan]

I've recently completed the layout on my first track. I wanted the ability to run 2 engines at once (using DCC) so I created an inner/outer oval configuration. One oval is an 18" and the other is a 22" radius. They are connected using turnouts. This enables me to run two engines simultaneously without the fear of collision.

Like many of us, I am now considering how my next layout will be configured. I like the layout size and capability I have of running 2 engines but the configuration is a little boring. I'm looking for a new layout that incorporates the ability to run multiple engines but adds some more complexity and elevation changes.

Does anyone know of a site where I can view trackplans for such a layout?

Thanks in advance.

[AntonioFP45]

Hey WM,

Click on the following link: www.Atlasrr.com

When you get to the Atlas website, click on the box that says: Layouts.

A square with 9 Boxes will appear. Click on the one that reads HO. You will see a variety of track configurations. You can click each one to expand the size. There is no detailed info that goes with these, but the drawings may give you some ideas. [:)][:D]

Hope this helps! [:D][;)]

[cwclark]

it's been a long time but if i remember right you aren't going to get a 18' and 22' radius track on a 4 x 8...I think an 18" and a 15" radius will fit but not the 22"..either that or add another foot onto the 4 x 8....

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by cwclark

I think an 18" and a 15" radius will fit but not the 22"

A 22" radius semicircle is only 44" across. There's two inches to spare on either side of the center of the curve. My old 4x8 had 22" curves.

[AntonioFP45]

Actually CW,

Believe it or not you can. My close friend, Cmarchan, who posts here from time to time had a 4x8 layout back in 1978 when we were teens. It was based on the layout called "The Great Eastern Trunk" in the old "Six Layouts You Can Build" book by Atlas that was printed in the early 1960s.

With two brass MRC powerpacks and DC block controllers, we were able to run two trains simulteneously. Locomotives included: An AHM GG1, American GK E60CP, Athearn FP45, several Model Power E7s, and even a DD40! The bigger power usually ran on the outer track which was 22 radius.

Of course today, we're back in the hobby and planning layouts. We're both planning on around the wall type layouts in our homes (as it will keeps complaints down from our wives since less space will be "eaten up"! )

[WickhamMan]

Folks,

I already have the 18" and 22" setup working. I am now looking for a layout that is more interesting (figure 8, etc.) that will still allow for continuous running of 2 engines without collisions. Elevation changes would be great too.

I checked out the Atlas site but they don't have a configuration that allows what I am describing. It seems as though all of the layouts I've seen only support running a single engine on a 4x8.

Any other help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

WM

[Anonymous]

Try [url][www.thortrains.net/url]

[Don Gibson]

Atlas layouts are for those starting in the hobby:

Sells track products.
Learning experience.
Aquisition of product.
4' X 8' plywood sheets are readily available
22" is the maximum radius that will fit.
20" can be used via alternate 22' and 18" sections - or flextrack.
Everything else runs inside.

Problems are:
Takes up a whole room because of needed walk-around.
Trains making a continuous loop every 10 -20 seconds, become BORING.
Boring, Boring! The brain needs something to do.
A switching Layout is not Boring. It's problems stimulate the brain.

Even a layout arounf the basement REQUIRES a switchyard - to be interesting - and fun. When I was living in an apartment I made a 2' X 8' switchyard and incorporated it later into a larger layout.

Cut your 4 X 8' board into quarters. Move into corners and connect with 1.5" boards, except one 3' wide for Switchyard. This may be simplification, but it works, and you can add modifications, such as a lift out bridge section.

Industrial sidings along the right-of-way fit onto a 1.5' board. with a dual main line nicely.

[BRAKIE]

Originally posted by Don Gibson

Atlas layouts are for those starting in the hobby:

Sells track products.
Learning experience.
Aquisition of product.
4' X 8' plywood sheets are readily available
22" is the maximum radius that will fit.
20" can be used via alternate 22' and 18" sections - or flextrack.
Everything else runs inside.

Problems are:
Takes up a whole room because of needed walk-around.
Trains making a continuous loop every 10 -20 seconds, become BORING.
Boring, Boring! The brain needs something to do.
A switching Layout is not Boring. It's problems stimulate the brain.

Even a layout arounf the basement REQUIRES a switchyard - to be interesting - and fun. When I was living in an apartment I made a 2' X 8' switchyard and incorporated it later into a larger layout.

Cut your 4 X 8' board into quarters. Move into corners and connect with 1.5" boards, except one 3' wide for Switchyard. This may be simplification, but it works, and you can add modifications, such as a lift out bridge section.

Industrial sidings along the right-of-way fit onto a 1.5' board. with a dual main line nicely.
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Finally something we can agree on....[:0][:D] Except a 4x8 if design right is not boring if one adds industrial sidings,a small yard and uses a view block.Use your space wisely .However the spaghetti bowl 4x8 layouts found in most beginner layout books becomes quite boring as Don stated..

Larry

Conductor.

Summerset Ry.

"Stay Alert, Don't get hurt  Safety First!"

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