Hello all, I want to build a "not too big" and "not too complex" N scale layout on a hollow core door, slightly extended (39" x 83") I thought the easiest way to keep it simple was to not have elevation Take a look and let me know (it's Kato Unitrack) Is the gap on the lower right corner acceptable? Thanks
french-guy: It looks ok given the size restrictions although I would like to add a cross over from inner to outer tracks to give you more opperating options. One cross over at the top on the straight section and one going the opposite direction at the bottom straight. You would need to gap the track on the cross overs to keep the two loops electrically isolated. Ok that does add a little more wiring up to your project if you are going DC control (block and cab control via DPDT switches) But almost no extra hassle if you go DCC. Another option would be to go single track with passing sidings on the straight sections. Make both end loops a single track, then you don't need any cross over at all while openning up a lot more opperating potential. I think this option is better as there is no need to gap the track or have complicated wiring. Requires just four extra turnouts and your done! Hmmm... I see no reason for the gaps you have in the lower right corner in your present plan, there is no reversing loop and no polarity issues with the track or turnouts. Have fun!
I'll second the need for a crossover or two between the loops. Unfortunately, with Unitrack, adding a crossover messes with the track spacing unless you use their double crossover. The good news is that from what I hear, the double crossover is a pretty good unit, and has the needed power isolation built in. On the gaps that you are seeing in your plan mock-up, Unitrack does have a lot of "play" built in, allowing a good bit of "fudging"...but what I'm seeing there could possibly be a bit much to fudge. The only way to know is to assemble the loops on a trial basis then look for kinks. If it does turn out to be to much, Kato's Expansion Track (part # 20-050) may be the fix you need...it is telescoping adjustable between 3" and 4-1/4". I'm incorporating them on the front and back of the Unitrack door layout that I'm building.
I think the expansion track might be a little too long for that gap. You might have better luck with the Kato 20-091 Short Track Assortment. The package includes 1 1/8" and 1 3/4" tracks made just for such small gaps. Notice you also have a slight misalignment at the left end of your lower passing siding, right next to the turnout for the spur. You can likely "fudge" this and make it work, but it might behoove you to rework it so it matches. I have found that things that work "well enough" to begin with will usually work themselves into a trouble spot later. You'd be better off getting it as near perfect as you can right off the bat. I too have begun construction on a hollow core door layout. As soon as I can figure out how to make the RTS software create a screen shot, I'll post my trackplan.
