New Layout Plan
So recently has I’ve been working on the layout and running trains on it, I slowly began to come to the conclusion that the simple two track roundy-round layout just isn’t for me. I want some staging for all trains I own. I want some passing sidings. I want a little better operations for when I get into that aspect.
So I decided before I get to much more into the scenery work, and while almost all the track is re-useable, to call it quits on the Elmwood & Marigny.
Here’s a basic look at the plan now. It’s based on the Wisconsin Central layout from Model Railroader. Since all my trains are UP based, it’ll continue to follow a UP theme.
The layout will be built with a series of sectional pieces, with all aspects of the layout (roadbed, track, scenery base) built within the confines of its’ section. That way whenever the time comes for us to buy a home and move, the layout can moved in smaller pieces up to around 4′x4′ sections. The total size is 11′x11′.
A lift out section will allow access into the inside of the layout.
Looking to use Spline roadbed this time around for the continuous grade around the layout. Max grade is 2.5%. The staging areas will be cookie cut plywood.
Average train length will be about 8.5′. Sidings are 8-10′.
I like it Shaun. Are you going to do the “commuter” thing with the line at the top like the original plan? Also, I might suggest a nice river scene for the lift-out, just to add a scenic element to that piece.
Yup. I plan on using an Athearn F59PHI engine with some Bombardier cars on the commuter line. I’d like to maybe even automate it with a DSS1 from CML Electronics (or similar from another vendor). (Either by button push or automatic by time, though I’d have to work out the crossing protection for fully automatic)
I like the idea for a river scene for the lift out, too. I always thought using BLMA’s concrete segment bridge would be a good visual as a lift out bridge. It would look like the CSX bridge crossing the Bay in Bay Saint Louis, MS. So I’ll look into that.
That was exactly the type of bridge I was thinking.
You were doing some terrific work with the Elmwood & Marigny. It’s a shame but, you’ll grow with each effort. Are you salvaging the layout as it is or selling what you have done?
Having lived in the western suburbs of Chicago and later a Wisconsin resident, the layout would be great either as a Chicago & Northwestern, Milwaukee Road or CB&Q (Burlington). Of course, Metra would fit in the modern scheme of today.
Good Luck! I enjoy reading and viewing your work. Keep it up!
Marc in Madison, WI