So after years of wanting to build a layout I finally have the first step done. My bench-work is done. For my first layout I created this 3x6 table. My layout is going to be done using Kato Unitrack and I have dubbed it the South Suburban Loop. (Completely Fictional) Nestled in the South Suburbs of Chicago the Loop serves as a satellite site for the Chicago Belt Railway, additionally there is a Metra commuter track that serves the area. I'll update as I progress. Next step is the foam board and a trip to the Great Midwest Train Show for some rolling stock.
The pink foam board is on it.... it was interesting getting the 4x8 piece to my house from Home Depot..... For now just the oval and siding are up till I get all my feeders set.... In the meantime there's a train and the kids are enjoying it.
So this is for the most part going to be my final track plan. Can someone please tell me some good locations to place my feeder wires and also where exactly to place the insulated terminal unijoiners. Thank you. Chris
Nice work so far. DC or DCC? If DCC, it's farily easy. Put (at least) one feeder on each spur, siding, and track segment... all tied to the same master bus. No insulated joiners needed (for this track plan) unless you plan on doing block detection. So, specifically, for DCC, an example feeder placement for this layout might be: One feeder at each red dot (approximately) .. the green dot *could* use a feeder, especially if there's a short stretch of track between those two turnouts. For DC, things would be a bit more complex.
Thank you.... DCC it is. I have the NCE PowerCab. So next up is to drill some holes and run the feeders and turnout wires. Thank you!
Just read your username..... I have twin daughters that are 6. They love the train and so does their 3 year old sister.
Looks like you're off to a good start: solid benchwork & kids having fun! A couple of suggestions: I'm guessing that there's a double crossover in the yellow circle (hard to see). I suggest at least adding two more turnouts to create another crossover inside the runaround (red lines). This will allow a little more operational flexability with two (or three) trains (using the half-loops as waiting / alt-routes). The green lines are possible spurs / sidings to add some industries, though the front one could be an interchange, allowing cars to come "on" to the layout and a place for them to leave "to". They'll also give you a reason to have a runaround. Food for thought. Looking forward to seeing your layout come to life!
Yes there is a double-crossover in the yellow circle and I have another passing set to add but just haven't figured where yet.... The green line you placed in the front is an idea as it may allow me future growth along the back wall of the basement. Thanks for your input. Chris
