Hi, I've decided I need to start building something and a small switching layout is a good place to start! (A large switching layout would be my ideal anyway, but that's not going to happen any time soon!) In our dining room we have a buffet-style cupboard the top of which measures 240x38 (cm). The cupboard stands in a corner, and at the other end of the cupboard I can connect another 150x35cm section during operating sessions. So all up I have approx 12'9" x 14". Here are my Givens and Druthers. Givens: * Size: 240x37 + 150x35 (total = 12'9"x14") * 240x37 section will be flat and covered when not in use. * 150x35 section will be flat and stowed away in a closet when not in use. * buildings and any scenic items must be removable for storage * a grain elevator * other industries to suit covered hoppers (both long grain hoppers as well as short cement-style hoppers), e.g. cement plant * Era 1978-82 * Freight cars are mostly 50' boxcars, 54/55' covered hoppers, some 40' boxcars and shorter tank cars. Only a few 60' cars in my possession. * Locomotives all non-MUed except for a SW1500 pair. Druthers * Minimum number of tracks crossing module boundaries * A "universal" industry behind a chain-link fence on the "aisle side" * several interchangeable industries (buildings must be removable anyway). Generic, "Walthers kits" can be built first, custom scratchbuilt industries later * one interchangeable industry could be an oil loading platform * use track components I have on hand (Peco code 83: 1 each #5 L and R, 3 each #6 L and R, 1 #7 L curved, a box of flex). I've sketched my first ideas for a track plan here: http://www.flickr.com/invite/history/guests/?open=72157631575745348#gp_72157631575745348 but this is probably a touch optimistic and sub-optimal anyway. I'm going to go the route of building the benchwork first (since no more room is available anyway) and play with track components to see what fits the space. But any input (especially track plans!) is(/are) welcome! Cheers, Colin
