Looking into the idea of building a small N Scale layout. Nothing too big, since I don't have the room for anything too large. Thinking nothing larger than 3x6, or the infamous HCD. Mainline running, a few small industries to switch. Suitable for either DC or DCC operations. Central backdrop maybe, for a couple of different scenes. Thinking about trying the new Atlas track this time. A few track plan pages that were available are no longer. Could use a little help! Information appreciated. Thanks.
I really like this in 4x8... http://home.earthlink.net/~mrsvc/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderfiles/mr_ptra.jpg Cheers, Colin
This site is always the popular choice for small layout ideas. Mike's Small Trackplans I have a 40x90" layout created with three 30x40 foam board modules. No center backdrop, but thats the one thing I regret. Good luck!
Thanks for the link! Have seen site before. But, the link I have to same site doesn't work. And I had no clue how to go about locating site again! As a few of the plans had caught my interest. Thanks again.
Hi, Here is the address for Mikes http://www.cke1st.com/m_train2.htm Also here are a couple links to a small layout I like and wish I had built. http://gregkopp.com/Portals/0/blog/u...t%206-5-06.jpg http://gregkopp.com/Portals/0/hobbie...2008-23-08.jpg Gary
Hi Keith - Another source of inspiration for small layouts, although they may be too small for your space: Micro Layouts for Model Railroads Also: The All Gauge Page And: A bunch of Yahoo groups where track plans are discussed. - Jeff
You're looking for the same thing as I am. I'm probably going to build an N scale layout around 2' x 4', maybe a bit wider. I'm leaning towards using Peco code 55 for my layout but I might try Atlas code 55. My layout is going to be based on the Tidewater Southern, so the trackage will be a bit more "rough". Good luck with your layout!
For a small layout I always suggest small prototypes. The NYC area had lots of neat pocket terminals, for the 60's and earlier something like the Harlem http://members.trainweb.com/bedt/indloco/ht.html or for a modern era the NYCH http://trainweb.org/AbandonedLIRR/NYCH.htm Either can be distilled down to a small shelf or door in N scale without looking too silly...dave
Printed out a couple of ideas. The one I'm leaning towards is 26"x48". However, I'm thinking of enlarging it to 26"x60". A slightly longer mainline run, plus a bit more room for scenery. Think a GPxx, an SWxx, or MP15xx would be, and look, right at home. IMO. Based on a western theme, but not to a specific prototype. A freelance shortline perhaps?
Hi Keith, Any and all of the loco types you are thinking about would be a good choice. I personally would do the freelance shortline, but that is what I'm doing already.:tb-biggrin: Gary
When I began designing my own small N-scale layout, I figured on a 24" x 48" (2 x 4) track plan. After struggling a bit I discovered that increasing the depth from 24" to 32" opened up a lot of possibilities. The extra depth allows you to use slightly broader curves and gives you considerably more flexibility. Don't assume that a 4 x 8 HO plan will be easy to convert into a 2 x 4 N-scale design, either. N-scale is slightly larger than 50% of HO, so simply dividing every dimension by 2 doesn't always work out. - Jeff
A freelanced shortline is a very good idea. I toyed with the idea of a freelanced shortline in the Calif. Central Valley. I called it the San Joaquin Valley Railroad. Then, I found out there's a real SJVR! Since you're a Grande fan, a shortline Colorado railroad would be a cool idea. Gives you an excuse for over and under and tunnels and bridges. Great view blocks to makes the layout look bigger.
Here is the updated link to "Mad Mikes Small Track plans" Site. Hope you find something that helps. http://www.cke1st.com/m_train2.htm See ya Ron
trackplan Check out the Kato site, they have some nice small layouts already designed for Unitrack. I made up a version of the one with the 15* crossing (added a few sidings and a cut off track) . Darn I need a Digital camera......Mike
Look to be leaning towards a 30"x72" area. The size of a small folding table. Might be pushing my luck a bit though. Also looking at trying the Atlas Trua track this time. One question though: How many curve sections are required for a complete circle? Almost thought about getting a test loop while at Caboose Hobbies. But, because I had no idea how many curve sections made a complete circle, I got my G Scale couplers instead! Looking for the following: continuous run at least 1 passing siding 2-3 industries team track? interchange track small town of sorts gently rolling hills minimal, if any track elevation changes Need to be able to squeeze eventual layout around a 90* corner, plus basement door! Hopefully, without having to move small bookcase, holding G Scale equipment. Just looking for help with track plan ideas! Since I usually do NOT like what I come up with.
Ok, after a bit of work, I think I've managed something that'll work for me! It's a modified version of this track plan: http://gregkopp.com/Portals/0/blog/u...t%206-5-06.jpg Designed to fit a 30"x72" area, using Atlas C55 track. Just need to figure out how to save my plan, so I can post it. Would be interested in thoughts/comments/suggestions on plan design. Any information appreciated. Thanks. Keith
Hi Keith - The link to the track plan doesn't work. Is this what you were trying to link to? http://www.gregkopp.com/Portals/0/blog/uploads/2006/06/Layout%206-5-06.jpg - Jeff
