I’m happy to share my first layout. It will be on the floor in the attic of our one-stall garage. I envision the layout growing in three phases. I have 4 prewar locomotives that I want to run. The floor space available is 13.5’ x 12’. Given that 3 of my 4 engines have either no or manual reverse, I wanted a layout with continuous loops (i.e., no turnouts). The steeply sloped roofline (apex is 8 feet high) also limited me to keeping everything on one level at this time. Given these factors, I’ve attached my three phases below. The first phase will allow me simple wiring, be able to run two of my trains right away, and a relatively small financial investment (I only need to purchase 4 curves, 8 straight, and one switch to complete). The second phase adds two sidings and four switches which should let me put all four of my trains on the layout at once. The final phase connects the inner and outer loops by adding four more switches. I hope to have the first phase done before Thanksgiving (I still have some clearing/cleaning to do in the attic). I’d appreciate any comments since I’m still in the “design” phase. Thanks!
How are you going to access the center of the layout. Anytrack more than 3ft away from an edge or popup could be a problem unless you plan on walking on the layout which carries its own problems.
It appears you are going to have a table that you walk around. You might find that an “around the walls” format gives you more efficient use of space and better access, especially if the stairway comes up in the middle.
Looks nifty - my initial comment echoes Jim’ - you’ll want to be able to reach into the center of the layout if those are manual switches. Else, you should somehow have acccess to it - benchwork strong enough to climb upon or an access hatch. Are you planning to run one train at a time - because there are some ways you could break this up or wire it so that you might run more than one simultaneously.
Seems like a good plan since you’re planning it on the floor of your attic; it should be able to reach every part of the layout by simply walking across the floor between the track. Just keep some places to be able to step.
I would recommend to lay some vynil carpetry or floor boards before you start laying track. Try to keep the dust as low as possible and be able to clean a bit now and then. On the floor you’ll have more dust than on a table. I’m a bit concerned about the small area above left, where the tracks are really close to eachother. Be sure that your trains clear when they are there, otherwise it could give unwanted collisions.
I do plan on being able walk to each area, but I will keep your concerns in mind. I’m underlaying the whole track with rubber interlocking mats we used to use in a playroom. They are about 1/2" thick, are easy to cut, and lock together like a jigsaw puzzle.
You could run some accessory wires to different areas, especially the sidings to allow for addition of mechanized items in the future. You may also want to run the wires for your future switches while you are doing the rest. And one last thing, make sure you have access to the full lengths of the wires so you can repair in the future. Otherwise, looks good.
Install lighting over the layout before you start laying track. It is easier to do now than later. From overhead it lights things up better and you’ll need it for late night work.
Jim
