Designing an N-scale shelf layout

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Greetings fellow Modelelrs!

I am new to the forum, and am currently designing an L-shape N-scale shelf-layout for my living room (I will upload a track plan as soon as I am done tinkering with it).

I wanted to introduce myself, and ask for any advise (pre-planning) you might have.

Some specifics of what I am planning:

The layout: each leg of the L will be 12 feet in length (the full lenth of the available walls), and one foot wide. I am currently considering a yard at each end, with one set of staging tracks hidden under one of the yards (via a sub-level).

My goal is to have a layout primed for operations, even if it’s just me! And, as you have guessed from my sn, it will be a Reading layout!

2

Greetings! I am currently building an N scale micro layout (26"x52") also modeling the Reading. You are going to want a minumum curve radius of 11" on the visible sections of the layout, 6 axel road power will go around smaller curves but the overhang is noticeable.

I don’tt have personal experience with this but avoid helixes down to the staging yard if at all possible, it’s very tricky to get them right in such a small scale and even harder to keep them functioning.

3

Welcome to the forums.

I think a little more information would help more people come up with some ideas for you.

Since you are a Reading fan, I am assuming Applachian area.

What era are you planning to model?

Industries served?

Do you plan mosstly through trains or locals spotting cars at industries along the way?

Do you want to be fairly prototypical or freelance?

Even if you post a simple first sketch of your track plan, more people can give you some pointers.

Good luck,

Richard

4

i found the model railroad layout planner quite useful when looking for ideas for my last n scale layout it has many unique plans most with necessary parts list for track sections needed. There is a new 3rd edition available on Amazon and possibly elsewhere https://www.amazon.com/Model-Railroad-Layout-Planner-3rd/dp/1983195634/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1529400560&sr=

5

A helix, even in N scale will take up a good amount of space. I would think you would need at least a 36" square area for one. That would give you at least a 15" radius for one track on a helix, which is probably more than you would need.

Good luck and let’s see the track plan when ready!

Neal