To try and reduce possible errors, I have divided my next intended layout to 26 'baseboards', with each baseboard being designed individually. This time I wish to attempt to model a small metro passenger network of 13 stations and 4 routes. Two of the routes will run extended rush hour services. My challenge is to find suitable DMU/EMU DCC ready stock to operate either of Japanese of British outline.
I found this video very helpful. When I did my layout I couldn't decide on a plan so I just started. I have made many mistakes but I just look as a learning stage for me. Thanks for sharing. Dave
1:00 This one really speaks to me. There is about 1 inch (2cm) gap between the tracks and front edge. It is boring. All I could do is put in a few bushes. It is a long track, but it has not purpose.
Very good tips (or mistakes). I used to put switches in random places to make the layout look interesting, but the key to a good layout is to simulate scenarios and switching operations. You can even do it on paper. For example imagine you have an engine that is pulling 5 box cars, and you need to take out ('spot') the 2nd and 4th car to push them into an industry. What switching operations would be required? What if the train enters the yard from the other side (so with the engine on either side of the cars)? And can other trains still pass while the switching operations are being performed? That way you can really find out if your layout makes sense, and if you need more tracks (yard leads, sidings, run-around tracks...)
Hi Richy, I am actually planning my own railroad in a similar space, it will be an around the wall design. A lot is possible but these dimensions do force one to prioritize. If you want I can have a look? Maybe come up with some new perspective? If you are interested just send me an email. You can find that under my 'about' section.
Another thing worth mentioning is that your priorities, both when it comes to modeling and operations might change along the way too. I think that's the scary thing about getting started with a layout.
Yes that is a thing. But luckily with each new layout we are convinced that its the one! This also highlights why its bennificial to start with a good design. Just rushing into a layout because your excited to get trains running, often wont lead to a long lived design. Thats when design consultancy comes in. If layout design is not your thing or you don't have the experience, then just go to the experts. That will save a lot of headache and money later on.
My biggest mistake was making half my layout "hidden." I have a double track mainline that goes from one helix to a second, providing for a train to run around the upper level, down the helix, around the bottom (out of view), to the other helix and then back up. The length of run is such that I can have two long trains (or three short ones) running in each direction at the same time. I thought this would make for different trains running through the scenery and providing variety. Unfortunately, my trains spend more than half their run-time not being seen at all! That has turned into a disappointment for me. I definitely won't have hidden train runs again. Maybe hidden staging areas, but not normal running.
True. It's all about priority. For me I find it too big as my time schedule only has 5 trains. So I would only need a terminal to service and store 5 engines. That was my line of thought.
