I made the same mistake on my first layout I tried to put way to much into it, it was fun but it got very fustrating there are certin physical restraints you cant overcome (like grades and space) . My advice go simple but not to simple as you still want to push your creativity
If you really want the multi deck look, how about muli levals but don't connect the tracks , you could run a couple trains at once and have the apperance of elevations, but it would operate as 2 separate railroads, or I know your space is limited but do you have room to make a removable helix that you can store under the table when not in use, I know this isnt "simple" but if it can help get you what you really want. Just a couple thoughts from outside the box
Steve
NWP SWPI thought I'd get as much in as possible... have a 2 ft deep platform on 4 sides, point to point, 1st deck has a yard/engine terminal, then the track winds around once then again before coming out on 2nd deck then around again and once more before reaching the end of the line which is a mine and logging camp... too much for this space?
Math -- again. Calculate the grades, and then come back to us.
Certainly not a project for a first-time layout builder, if multi-decks could be made to work at all in HO with those constraints. (Spoiler alert: they can’t)
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Steven,
.
Your first layout will be a learning event and a throw-away. Layouts are like pancakes, you never keep the first one.
Build something fast and simple. I am 100% serious about that. You need to learn a lot of new skills, and you will probably do them badly.
No more than 4 turnouts, no reverse loops, no grades, and easy scenery.
Once you learn from this, scrap it... and do it all over again.
I am onto "real" layout number six.
-Kevin
Living the dream.
Grade steepness could be an issue maybe just twice round one deck?
For the mock up do I need track?
If I have a track plan how do I transfer it to the benchwork?
If everything seems under control, you're not going fast enough!
You could do a lot more in 6x8 with N-scale than with HO.
Rio Grande. The Action Road - Focus 1977-1983
Given your overall footprint, I think it's way too much in HO. However, why don't you mock up what you have envisioned in cardboard first to see if it's actually going to be a feasible plan or not.
For a first layout I would employ the KISS method so that you have a better chance of completing it. I see problems with grade steepness and access that don't leave much room for either a camp or a terminal.
Mocking it up will help point out the problem areas. And you'll want to do that BEFORE you start ANY construction. You may also need to do it several times before you come up with an acceptable plan.
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
Alright I have finally gotten the okay on a layout... (*applause*) only condition is it be removable/portable so it has to be self supporting... I can only use 6x8 no more than that...
I thought I'd get as much in as possible... have a 2 ft deep platform on 4 sides, point to point, 1st deck has a yard/engine terminal, then the track winds around once then again before coming out on 2nd deck then around again and once more before reaching the end of the line which is a mine and logging camp... too much for this space? Only one deck? Once around?
Only thing is I have to run the height by the joint chiefs to see if two decks will be acceptable...
I will post updates as construction begins...