This is true, but if there is no crossover between the two mains then each track can be wired to a separate DC transformer, put the trains on the tracks, and let 'er rip. In fact, and I am not sure that you would need more than one set of feeders connected to each transformer. Even I could wire that layout blindfolded.
Bear "It's all about having fun."
bearman I cannot see any reason to power that track plan on DCC, unless you want sound, and bells and whistles, and lights etc.
I cannot see any reason to power that track plan on DCC, unless you want sound, and bells and whistles, and lights etc.
Rich
Alton Junction
The plan seems workable to me. This would be done in N scale, correct?
Are you planning to power the layout in DC or DCC?
One more thing Bering, when you mentioned Donnor Pass I went a little nuts as I recall the area from when I lived in the Bay Area years ago. My, God, the Sierra Nevada around Tahoe is so beautiful. Would love to see pictures as you proceed. And you should be able to run two main lines on DC.
I'm guessing this is N scale, right?
It's quite a simple plan, but it showcases one of the most formidable passes on the SP line, which seems to be the object. Please post pictures as you get going!
Steve
If everything seems under control, you're not going fast enough!
You could scenic 1 side winter and the other summer, with transition seasons on each end. Just a thought!
OK, well, it's my bed time. I'll go away now.
Mike.
My You Tube
Bering, if you can do the fancy mountain scenery then go for it. MR mag featured a Canadian RR recently, which was really a simple loop and the scenery was fantastic....Frazier Cayon if I am correct.
I saw the N Scale Addicts layout, that he built years ago. It was a very good BNSF Marias Pass train set. Nicely detailed scenery, bridges, and etc.
I could see it in a winter landscape with SP locomotives. It shouldn't be to hard to duplicate into your image.
Amtrak America, 1971-Present.
In this case i am more interested in going overboard on fancy mountain scenery than spaghettibowl trackwork.
Lost in the snow
bearman There is no way you can run more than one train on that track plan. And it could be wired for DC, not DCC. I just think the plan is too symetrical.
There is no way you can run more than one train on that track plan. And it could be wired for DC, not DCC. I just think the plan is too symetrical.
Actually, the plan allows for two trains running around in two independent circles. If that is what the OP wants, then let him just go for it.
Based on the picture of the track plan I could not distinguish the double main line. by too symmetrical it looks just like a dog bone and that is all...but if that is what you like that is th only important thing. It is only a personal preference.
only one train? It was designed to a double mainline going around in a loop. i was thinking two trains going in loops in opposite directions.
also, what do you mean by too symetrical? i am just asking so I dont fall into any design traps.
I thinks it's cool, as long as you can walk all around, with a throttle in your hand, and watch trains. If part of it is against a wall, not sure.
Maybe if one end is against a wall, it's good.
If all you are going to do is run one train (N scale) through a continuous loop then I don't see how that will not work. However, if you could somehow vary the curve on one of the long sides it may be a little more visually interesting.
Hello all, thanks for stopping by.i have been dreaming of a 80's - 90's winter donner pass layout for a while now. I have really been feeling the espee bug as of late though. Putting in a little bit of time i came up with a 4x10 design that captures some of my favorite parts of the pass.
3" = per square
The layout is mainly based on NScaleAddicts marinas pass layout. it has no switching or even a surnout to keep cost down. All i want is to have long trains snaking through the mountain scenery.
the scenes featured are the eastern most tunnel as it turns above cold creek canyon.
https://www.google.com/maps/@39.3142408,-120.2451324,626m/data=!3m1!1e3
shed 42 and its eastern approch.
https://www.google.com/maps/@39.3114801,-120.2679801,377m/data=!3m1!1e3
and this interesting bit of trackage near yuba.
https://www.google.com/maps/@39.3271159,-120.5881993,615m/data=!3m1!1e3
the layout is on a minimum radi of 18".
I was wondering what your thoughts on plan at this point are. This is very rough and needs to be cleaned up alot, i am not very happy with the double tunnel bump aera on the left. that needs a lot of work, sugestions are encouraged as i am not quite sure what to do there.