Another idea that sprouted from my brain. I have never had a turntable on a layout. Other than suspending one upside down from the ceiling and having supermagnetic track my other option is to add a 3rd level on the north end of my bedroom layout.
Boyd,
I have three levels. The first is the main level with lots of switching, the second has no switches and goes through the mountain. The idea behind now switches on that level are so that I can run older trains that have the gears going all the way to the flange. Also, I have the ability to let it just run, while working switching on the main level. The third level has one passing siding. I am still working on this level, but the plan is for a passenger set up with two trains taking turns around the loop. Obviously, these levels are not connected to each other.
Dennis
Boyd,
I don’t know about 3 levels - - - I don’t even have two levels on my layout (HO scale, incidentally) - - - but if you have any steam at all on your layout, you gotta have a turntable.
The ability to turn around a steam engine without the space consumption of a wye track or a loop is an important consideration. But, just as importantly, turntables are a lot of fun and provide an interesting operational function.
Do it !
Rich
I should clarify. 3 levels as in 3 tables, not just 1 on table and 2 elevated above it.
Say what? I think you better clarify that latest statement.
Rich
My next layout will be designed from the start at 2 levels. Not sure if connected although thats the 1st goal for a real long mainline run. I’m thinking of grades with maybe a one spiral helix. Trains dissapearing for minutes in a long helix dosen’t appeal to me. John Armstrong has numerious dual level track plans in old Model Railroader magazines. In his book Track Planning for Realistic Operation Fig 6-9 pg. 57 is one of the best views of multiple decks. This book is a must have for any track planning. Most dual level the bottum one isent very deep obviousley you can’t work or see it way under. Most are shelf type. Google dual level model railroads or also vidio site has some inspiration.
Dennis