New Layout - Need advice and help

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

Hi,

I am in the planning stages of my new HO layout and wanted to get some feedback from the community about it.

First off, the space I have to work with is an L shape measuring 10’ and 10’ for each part of the L. Depth would likely be 30" since that seems to be the preferred depth to work with. I could probably go as wide as 48" where needed.

What I need help with is determining if I will be able to fit a double track (two separate lines that is) in the 30" width. I want to have a curve at each end and a rail yard past the curve at the far end. Also I am not married to any particular layout yet, I have looked but not found anything that fits.

For industries I would like to do coal and lumber. Also want to include a town of some description along the tracks for the passenger line (mainline). The freight line (branchline?) is where I will put the industries.

I plan to include some elevation of track (since I have a few nice bridges I want to use) and at least part of the layout in a tunnel (of course!).

Not really basing the layout on anything in reality, just a fantasy line. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

2

You could do double tracks in 6 inches and still have room left over. If you get Model Rail Roader, you will have access to the track plan data base… Look through those for some inspiration. Or get the last couple issues of Great Model Railroads. 2011 and 2012 had some good shelf layouts of about your size.

3
  1. 30" Width is fine for parallel (straight) track. You’ll have a LOT of room to work with. GENERAL rule of thumb is that 2" centerlines is good for track spacing (though you’ll want 2.5 - 3" on curves).
  2. 30" Width IS NOT good for a turnaround loop. Even using a relatively tight curve of 20"R, you need to have a minimum of 42-44" of table space (so the track isn’t right at the edge of the table surface).
  3. Elevation change is nice, though with the space you have, it’ll be steep assuming you’re doing a crossover of track that’s connected to itself. alternatives to changes in elevation (of the track) are
    1. have the land lower than the track
4

To help with elevation changes, without having steep grades, use 2" foam as the base of your layout. You can easily cut down into the foam for rivers and streams that will need a bridge. Not to say you can’t add a little to the surface to make your depth over 2".

Good luck,

Richard