Hi all, I'm about to embark on a mid-life (40) crisis layout...my first real attempt at a semi-permanant place to run trains, introduce them to my young son, etc. My wife has signed on as VP of scenery and details (cool!). I hope to begin construction this summer and be operational within 12 months. I have used Atlas Right Track Software and their upcoming Code 55 track. Please note that I am bumbling with the software and everything does NOT match up properly yet (ah, the goodness of flex track!). The layout is up at http://pages.prodigy.net/bobhayden/bhlayout01.jpg Here's the idea behind it: Modular construction, including an NTrak module. There will be a curved skyboard 6 inches from the back, curving in at the 2 ends. It is meant to be able to operate with the middle section removed as well. I would like to run trains of various eras, from long freights to Steam to Amtrak passenger runs. I would like to go with DCC but may try to wire it to be used both ways. There is a 4x4 loopback module at left. The single loop is an "up and over". In the center of the loop I would like to put in some minor yard (kinda short, though), or possibly a switching industry or possibly a roundhouse. The middle section is an extra-wide 3x4 foot straight NTRak module (NTrak allows an additional 6 inches front and back). The front 6 inches will be for scenery purposes, and the back 6 inches allow for loop back of the trains as well as 2 staging tracks. Remember, this will be behind the skyboard. This section is to depict the triple track BNSF line between Chicago and Aurora (a suburban Chicago town flat scene) complete with station. Finally, the 4x6 module at right consists of hill and mountain scenery, with tunnels, bridges and the like. Any and all information, criticism, ideas, advice and comments are welcome and encouraged. I am cross-posting this to the layout design and the N Scale forums here on TrainBoard. Thanx, Bob
Bob, Welcome to Trainboard, and specifically the N Scale forum! Seeing as how I'm in my mid-forties myself, I don't see it as midlife - heck, that's when life begins! As to your plan, it looks nice, but one reservation I would have is the "up and over" loop on the left side. I'm wondering if that loop may be too steep to run more than short trains. Perhaps the best option could be to raise the up-and-over loop, and lower the inside tracks. Where's Rick Nicholson when you need him- he's a great source of N scale layout planning, and I defer to him in these manners. He may have a better solution than me. I planned my N scale Paris & Mt. Pleasant using Atlas' Right Track Software, and it seems to work OK. What you drew using RTS looks good to me. Keep us posted, and once again, welcome to Trainboard. I Ncourage you to keep asking questions- we'll be glad to help you!
