So long story short, I’m finally getting to build a small switcher before we move to WV in a couple years. The track plan is Ed Vondrak’s Swartz Creek No. 1 from “Starter Track Plans”. His layout was 18" by 7’ in HO. For some reason I couldn’t get this into 12"x48" in N Scale using code 55 so I had to go with 18" x 5’.
I’ll be running an 0-6-0 shunting single cars around the layout.
I’ve made some modifications to the plan and would love any and all input before I start making mistakes!!
I don’t have any suggestions for modification since I don’t have any experience with shelf switching layouts, but for an 18" x 5’ layout, it looks like a lot of fun. I like the idea that the mainline “continues” at both ends, plus the hidden staging. The river crossings should add extra interest. Keep us posted and show us some photos of your layout.
Rich
I agree with Rich. This looks like a fun interesting project. If possible, please take photos as you build the layout and post them here. I’d love to see how it goes.
Before you make any mistakes? Mistakes? Got to make mistakes and learn from them. 
Seriously, an interesting plan. Have fun with it. Keep us informed with pictures.
David
Here is the original track plan from “Starter Track Plans for Model Railroaders”. I still can’t figure out why I can’t get this into 1x4. 1.5’ x 7’ should fit with Code55 but I’ll be darned if I can get it in there. I didn’t even use the 50% rule, I made it larger than that! I’d prefer 1’x4’ simply due to lumber costs. Any idea if I’m missing something?
Here in the U.K. there was ‘flurry’ of s plans for small layouts.
Although really good plans, trying to build them was impossible unless the layout size was extended somewhat.
David
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No idea other than different track sizes, but does it matter since you have the space to replicate Swartz Creek No. 1?
Rich
Very true!!
Perhaps simplify the concept a bit to make it look less spaghetti? The area by the river and mainline can just have one one siding track. You can then add two to the sawmill since have more space for it and put the industry between the two, new siding tracks.
I agree with kasskaboose if you want the some area change it to fit your needs that’s half the fun.
Chuck
Model railroaders far far more qualified in layout design and track planning have commented that a lot of track plans are unable to be built as per the plan/ drawing.
I have encountered this building a layout at the Club. Not only did it need more space but a considerable amount of tweaking. For me it was a good lesson in that I needed to do my own homework before cutting the timber!
Cheers, the Bear. 
I’m not a diagram modeler, but this looks like an excellent diagram.
Well done!! Benjamin
Chuck
I think you haven’t allowed enough track length to pull the cars from the saw mill area at the lower right of the plan, especially if you have cars on the equipment storage track or locos on the engine house track.
I’m only planning on one 0-6-0 engine to switch one or two cars at a time. More of a fun thing for my first layout. The cars are no more than 40’ sheathed boxcars or less (WW2 era in rural WV).
Well I’m going to need a 3rd version! I was looking at building footprints and may have some space issues.
I think I’m going to need to build some buildings I plan to use to verify the footprints will work. If I have the module built (1x4 and plywood cross members) I can lay a printed track plan with the buildings and see if I goofed.
Any thoughts?
I’m an amateur at layout building, so my advice should be taken lightly.
I would have a hard time planning track layout to fit to my buildings. I did it the other way around – I laid out the track, and then built the buildings to fit.
Guven the size of the layout and the fact that it is a switching layout, keep the structures small. Maybe consider some “background” buildings that are only an inch or two deep. Modulars are another possibility.
Rich
