I'm considering a 3rd phase of construction for my Myersville Branch layout. Here's the current track plan. This week I discovered a simple way to lengthen my mainline and to create double-ended drive-through staging. Instead of using a conventional space-eating yard ladder on each end, I'll modify my existing sector table to slide like a drawer, hence the 'drawer staging' label on the drawing below. The blue line cutting through the new peninsula will be a backdrop. The new sidings will service perhaps another coal tipple or an industry handling loads in covered hoppers. OK, bring on the comments. Do you see anything I shouldn't do or anything I might want to adjust? Thanks for your help.
Personally, I see that 2'-4" aisle, and I get claustrophobic. But I see that you're already pinched as far as area. Maybe instead of having a squared off layout edge on the new section, you can curve it to follow the track, and thus give you a little relief, and limit the 2'-4" pinch to a single spot. I realize that having the edge of the layout parallel with the track is not recommended, but sometimes compromises have to be made. The drawer-staging is indeed a great idea. It's going to take some engineering to put together a long, narrow drawer that rolls smoothly enough that cars don't get knocked off, and get the tracks to line up well. But with some effort, it can be done. And if you get really good, maybe you can even motorize and automate it! Long live high-hoods! ---jps
Agree with the tight fit, but can you curve the facia and bench to more closely follow the new curves? That would give you a pinch point getting in but a bit more space once you are past the opening. You'll be able to stage trains going in both directions with this plan which I think will be very nice.
