hoN3 layout plans

I want to build an hoN3 layout and keep it small with switching but wanna run k-27 and c-19. Any good ideas? I'm not to good when coming up with track plans. Thanks.

 

Do you want continuous run like a loop of track or just switching like an industrial switching layout? How much space do you have available? I'm not the best layout designer but I'd be happy to share some of my ideas with you.

 

I want both features in a small layout. Space is a problem, I need to make it portable and light weight. I think i'm down to a three and a half by eight foot layout with an expansion track.

 

I can completely understand the space issue. I have designed a 3'6" x 8' layout for HOn3 that uses the back section for staging and the front for a small town with a couple of industries. I'd be happy to post the plan if you want.

 

Ya that would be nice if you could post some photos. Thanks.

 

Here it is in all its glory. Nothing spectacular but simple and usable.

18" min radius, #4 turnouts and 40" x 8'

I see operation as being two 4-6 car trains in staging facing opposite directions, thus you can have a west bound and east bound local. They pull into town and do set outs / pick ups. You can use car card and waybill for car forwarding.

Also, industries are a rough guidline. Choose whatever suits you best!

 

I have the idea of a small layout. For this I use my staging yard "Fiddletown"



and connect this with my station Salina.


A few modules between .... a curve ...

Wolfgang

 

Bump! I'd like to see this layout expanded slightly, so one could have a turntable/roundhouse.

 

With this small size of a layout I think it would be difficult to try cram a turntable and roundhouse in. I suspect if you make it a 4' x 10' it might be more possible / feasible. I'm sure some of the more experienced designers can easily draw it up.

Personally, I'm building this in 7' x 40" so I definitely don't have the space for a turntable despite wanting one.

 

Yep, turntable, roundhouse, Chama yards, Lobato trestle, Alpine Tunnel...all of this is fine on a much larger layout (maybe not)...adhere to the KISS Principle and your modeling life will be much nicer. A great line can be built on a 3.5' by 6' but you have to keep it simple. You can always have a switch to "nowhere" which can someday connect this layout with a larger one. Have fun.
Woodie