Hi Guys, I'm looking into possibly re-doing my HO Scale layout this winter, and I would like some advice. I am open to all ideas.... Some info: 1. Have a 8 x 12 work area where layout can go...accessible from all but one side... 2. Would like 24-26 inch radius curves...nothing bigger... 3. I model the modern era... 4. Would like one main line that doen not just follow the edges of the table (in other words, I don't want a huge oval)... I have been playin around with the idea of a 2-Level layout. But I don't know how a helix would work. If a helix could work, I would use 22" radius curves on it.... Hopefully you guys can give some ideas on a cool track plan. I am all out of ideas. Thanks in advance, and Happy Holidays. Sean
Is a shelf layout an option? Square footage for a shelf layout can be bigger than a rectangle layout and give you more long distance operation on the mainline.
A helix will chew up 4 feet so I don't think I'd go that route. But that's just me. How about a U-shaped layout instead or would that be too shelf-like? That'll get you away from a big oval and you could walk into the middle, so you'd be effectively breaking the layout into three distinct scenes.
Hi Sean Have you considered an aroung the room layout, with perhaps a swing up on one end to access the center of the layout. A decent idea book could be Kalmbach books, "101 track plans for model railroaders" as it has different styles, sizes, and types of layouts, you also can take part of one, and part of another to make a layout to suit your needs. Good luck in your quest...John
Sean, I had made for a friend a similiar plan for a room 3.2 m x 3.7 m (3' x 12'). At one (long) side I suggested a 1.8 m (6') long paternoster. Well, it could be simple a piece of wood. You lift the board with track and train to the next level. For a helix or ramp is too less space. Wolfgang
Depending on the length, it's not uncommon to bring one of the ends of the U a further 90 degrees, to form a general "G" shape. Another is to widen one or two of the legs of the U to give a broader return loop. Again, the space available will dictate this. Peter