? Who has built double-deck free-mo modules?

[chutton01]

This coming fall I want to finally construct several modules, Free-mo style. Upon further consideration, I believe I want to have double deck modules, with staging/storage track on the bottom level (this would have minimal ground detailing - it is mostly for staging after all).
I've see urban free-mo modules w/ subway systems in the bottom level, but has anyone here built such a series of modules - layout top-level/staging bottom level, with some sort of ramp module to hook up the two?  Any suggestions?

(I couldn't find any existing threads).

[MisterBeasley]

I don't think the Free-Mo specification says anything about multiple levels.  The only rules are about how things match up at the ends of each module, both physically and electrically.

Every Free-Mo setup I've ever seen is a sprawling array of modules.  Part of the "free" part is that it's typically set up in a large space, so the limitations of space which we have in our personal train rooms just don't apply.  Hence, staging is typically built as yards, just another layout module with or without scenery.

McFunkeyMonkey is our resident Free-Mo expert.  He models in N-scale and occasionally posts outstanding photo essays over on the Layouts threads.

http://cs.trains.com/mrr/f/11/t/212393.aspx

 

[stilson4283]

Wolfgang had the closest example of this:

http://www.westportterminal.de/thirdstreet.html

This is Free-mo built into a layout with a ramp, not quite what you were looking for but it might give you some ideas.  Also you could build the staging and ramp between levels as part of a perminate layout. Then have the free-mo be removable sections that travel to shows.

Chris

[chutton01]

stilson4283

Wolfgang had the closest example of this:

http://www.westportterminal.de/thirdstreet.html

This is Free-mo built into a layout with a ramp, not quite what you were looking for but it might give you some ideas.

That is actually pretty neat looking, I've always liked images of road-running trackage going under mainline bridges.
(Alas, I haven't found many images of active prototypical modern era examples).

Also you could build the staging and ramp between levels as part of a permanent layout. Then have the free-mo be removable sections that travel to shows.

Yes, you are correct, and I had begun giving that idea some consideration. It may well turn out to be the best design approach.

Also, the concept of multi-module "double decker" design would seem to not conform to the current end-plate specs, as no provision is made for a second level (then again, the plate specs may only be a minimum).

Thanks

 

[fwright]

Keep in mind, the Free-mo spec is at the module boundary.  Many-to-most modules consist of more than one section to make transport easy.  Within the module boundaries, the section boundaries are not tied to the Free-mo spec.  In other words, you can have three 4ft long sections as a single module.  The 3 sections will always be together in a setup.  The two internal joints betwen sections can be built with multiple tracks at multiple elevations.  Only the 2 ends of the 12ft module have to be Free-mo compliant.

Using your plan, you will have to build the complete set of sections yourself because the spec doesn't allow for multiple levels at the module boundary.  In other words, you will have nobody else to match up to or combine with unless you meet spec at the module boundary.

Elevation differences at the module end must be in increments of 3/4 inches, starting at 50 inches and going up to 62 inches.

hope this helps

Fred W

[mlehman]

I think you're getting some good advice on this. Sounds like an interesting project. Thought I'd bring up a couple of points, not so much to discourage it, but so that you have a reminder to take these factors into consideration.

A big  issue in moving any module is weight. A double deck module can be counted on to double that for all practical purposes. What's worse is that a double deck module has to be stronger to keep the two decks in proper relation to each other. If you intend to cross between modules on both decks, then you have turned what was a close tolerance 2-dimensional joint into three dimensions. It's not just strength to bear weight, either, but to resist twisting and torqueing to keep all that in alignment. You may want to consider a metal frame, maybe even welded, to give you the performance you need.

My second concern is, Why? At home, a double-deck layout is typically done because there's just not enough area available to build a single deck layout with the desired mainline run, number of industries, etc. With most Fremo layout's, there's a large space available, plus people want to SEE what's there. Meanwhile, all that's going on in the basement? I know I'm being too harsh here, but my point is that you need a REASON why you're going double deck. Then it makes sense in the context of the typical show, which spreads things out, plus gives easy access to everthing by just walking a little farther.

The subway works for me, but I'm not sure about staging with low overhead and virtually nil scenery. It's a lot easier just to build another module. Having this separately and out in the open  is just a lot easier to deal with and use in a show layout environment IMO.

Also just my opinion, what might be more interesting to me would be a special group of modules that incorporate significant elevation changes in them. Maybe a branch line up to mining or logging or a resort, could be narrow gauge, or steam, or even electric or a cog railway. Or just an ordinary but steep as all heck climb that really gives the locos a dramatic workout. This in itself would tend to breakout of the one general elevation that tends to result for obvious reasons of compatability, but which sometimes limits the verticality of the scenery on modules.

[chutton01]

Hmm, after reading some of the posts, I'm thinking maybe go with Free-Mo single level standard for the bulk of the plan, and have a pennisular or shelf of double deck modules, which would be modular simple to facilitate if I move to a new space or something (a sucky thing to have to rip apart a nicely sceniced and designed area, not because you want to improve or change it which is a positive, but because you have to move it which is generally a negative)

[mlehman]

If the contemplated moves are to relocate the layout, then you can put up with a lot more weight than if you were needing to move it in your light truck or van every other weekend. You can also scab on bracing on the outside just for the move to keep everything lined up if you did it in wood. So you've got more options with scenarios like that.

[delray1967]

Have you been to a local Freemo setup? I highly suggest it if you haven't. Although the Freemo standard is a nationwide standard, if you regularly operate (like once a year or so) with a specific group, they might allow you to relax a little on those standards, if it suits their overall scheme of running. For example, if they only like running prototype length coal drags,  then grades will be important to keep at (or below) 1%...if they like short switching locals, a short 2% or 3% might be tolerable to them.

There are a couple Freemo setups in my area this year...One in Van Wert, OH and another near Flint, MI. Search for setups in your area and check it out for yourself, it's better to ask questions before you build than to show up with an experimental design. I'd start out with a short straight module or a couple of 45 degree modules (you can never have too many 45 degree modules!), then after getting to know the group, build another module set...you can probably even get some help if fellow Freemo'ers are close to you and can come by for a building session. 

I highly suggest everyone get into FreeMo (at least one module)...it's a great way to run trains on a large layout without having to build a large layout, and the people I've met (from all over the country and Canada) are great resources. Some like to run prototypically (using car cards), some like to run their favorite passenger trains loop to loop; either way we all love running trains.

FreeMo is The Way To Go! :)