Hello, name is Don. It's been awhile since I wsas last here, 2007-08. I had designed an N scale layout. Older now, ain't we all, and glasses are daily use. So scrapped the N, just too small anymore and it's off for an adventure in HO scale. Let's get this party started! This is going to be a long first post so grab a drink and a comfy chair. Have a general idea for the layout and looking for critic, suggestions and corrections. For the attached photos, is it too tight? Too many industries? Thank you all! This rail road will be on the TRRA in St. Louis, MO Givens: Layout: Switching attached to wall ERA: 70~80 Prototype: TRRA 2'x8' with possible L expansion of 2'x4' or 2'x8' Scale: HO only Build Height: 4', because I might like to sit down Control: DCC Switch angle: #4 but open to suggestions Track Brand: preferably Atlas, open to others Code: 83 Focul Points: Brewery (AB) as I live near St. Louis Grain Elevator/Milling serviced by trucks, trains and barge Car size: 40' Train Max: 3 cars + Engine Engines: Small switchers only Elevation: 0 Mainline should run edge to edge for future expansion Casets used for intoducing cars, further expansion may include small yard ------------------------------- Druthers: small space for partial barge offloading (see pic) Other small industries - can be removed
I like the plan. Lots of switching opportunities there. It doesn't look like it would be too tight. As for the getting old and glasses, I understand that all too well but I'm so far down the N scale path that I am staying the course.
The pocket created inside the run around seems small. It would mean having to make a lot of moves to get to either side of a pair, or trio of cars. If you had a move from the silos to the brewery those cars need to get from the left of the loco to the right hand side of it on your plan. As is you'd have to move one car at a time.
