Below is first planned HO scale layout. It is apx. 24'x 8'. Not much but it will be my first and I didn't want to bite off more than I could chew. Basically I want to get my locos and cars out the boxes and start running trains. It is loosely based on the CSX/Soo operations in Mid-Michigan, a single mainline with a yard, siding, and a grain elevator. Probably boring to most but it will give me something to learn from. There will a divider that runs down the middle. I'm starting out with a small yard but plan to increase it as overtime. All curves are a minimum 34" eased radius. I plan on running some 89' flats and autoracks so I thought this would help operations. The mainline turnouts will be #8's with #6's in the yards. It initial will be a single cab setup. Hopefully by the end of February it will be DCC. Anyway, anybody have any suggestions? Should I add more industries? Should I stick with Atlas code 83 or use something else? Keep in mind that this is a starter layout. The BIG layout is still being dreamed about, ie need a house with a basement.
Can I suggest a through yard rahter than a stub ended yard mainly due to the fact that backing a train out of the yard back around a curve will be quite difficult
I concur. I would say yes to more industries. You may not feel the need for them right now, but there is a good chance once you've been running your layout for a while you'll wish they were there.
What is it you like to do most when you put your hands on the throttle? Bend down and watch the train at eye level coming at you? Switching? That will give you an idea where to spend more energy...
If you can build that yard, so that it is accessible from both ends, you'll be much happier with the operational possibilities. And yes, a little more industry. Boxcab E50
If it were my layouts I would definitely have an industry in the left hand circle, it could be coal, or a quary, something like that. The three track you have on the upper right hand corner, I would reduce to two and make it a barge area. A barge makes for a good "interchange" or staging tool that allows you to get different cars on and off the layout in a believeable manner.
Thanks for the ideas and comments. I WILL add some more industries. After thinking about it I agree. I will post a revised layout after the holidays. Are curved turnouts reliable when using 89' equipment?
