55''x32" layout

[earthqu8kes]

hi, i'm new to model railroading. i have an HO scale locomotive and wooodchipper that wont turn on my 15'' radius atlas code 83 track(only the woodchipper doesnt' turn). i have very limited space on my desk (mom says i have to keep some space for homework[}:)])... i dont know wut to do as this is my first layout. i have an O27 gauge train that i still have to take daown from were the christmas tree was, but i couldnt model that cuz it wuz to big. so if u can help i wuld appreciate it. thanks[:)]

[HAZMAT9]

It may help if you're able to elevate the layout on your desk at least a few feet with legs, with the layout elevated, you have most of your desk available to use for other things.

[ereimer]

QUOTE: mom says i have to keep some space for homework

if your spelling and typing in this message are typical of the schoolwork you do , then you need not only space for homework , but you need to spend some time doing the homework .

to answer your question ... what about a piece of plywood that slides under your bed when you're not using it ? that should give you the space for large enough curves

[earthqu8kes]

QUOTE: Originally posted by ereimer

QUOTE: mom says i have to keep some space for homework

if your spelling and typing in this message are typical of the schoolwork you do , then you need not only space for homework , but you need to spend some time doing the homework .

to answer your question ... what about a piece of plywood that slides under your bed when you're not using it ? that should give you the space for large enough curves

to answer your first question... i do a lot better on homework trust me. i like your idea but my grandpa made my bed(its a racecar)and it only has 3 inches of clearance from carpet to bed(it looks like a lowrider).

[fwright]

Another possibility is to build a switching layout on a bookshelf. No watching the trains go 'round and 'round, but probably more interesting to build and operate in the long run. Also, more likely to meet with your Mom's approval by having a narrow layout on the wall. Try to get at least 6 ft long and 18 inches wide if you can.

Or, just use short cars and locomotives that will go around 15 inch radius curves. Using Snap switches, you can fit 2-3 spurs inside your oval in the 55"x32" space.

Take a look at this site for ideas for layouts in small spaces (and share with your Mom) http://www.carendt.com/

yours in small layouts
Fred W

[earthqu8kes]

to tell you the truth... i dont even have space for a shelf layout. and also i dont like switching layouts as much as round and round layouts. if u think i have very little space u r right. i have a puny room with a bed and a desk with a bed on top. my siter has an even bigger room and she has twice as much stuff as me. i get jealous alot of times.[#offtopic] sry starting to get off topic.

[Jetrock]

What do you mean by a "woodchipper"?

[earthqu8kes]

wood chip hopper