Steve I hope to get started on a On30 layout this winter. While it will be small (15 to 35 sq. ft.) I plan to make it so it can be operated. BTW I like your engine house!

Hi Steve , I guess we both have the same general problem although you are well into your project and I haven't started . My main layout is HO and the ON30 , at this point , is secondary .

As I stated in the intro section , I'm looking at a 3x6 foot area , point to point , probablty 2 turnouts , 2 locos , 1 main structure , possibly a trestle ......minimal operation . I'll probably just DC it for now .

I don't have an answer for more continuous operation with your 2x8 but I will ask a friend of mine JIM ( aka Jimdad1 ) who is a Forum member but not particularly active on a regular basis due to his work .

I don't think Jim hangs out on this thread ...moreso Photo Forum and Craftsman so I will tell you that he is an excellent and inovative modeller . He had ( still does I think ) a point to point to point , 2 level , HO or HOn3 , about 3x8 or so that ran automatically if he wanted to take it to shows .The train would reverse and the turnouts would operate on their own . I'll email him to talk about this for you , I'll mention you and maybe the two of you could talk more if you are interested .It's all I can think of for now .

TERRY

Steve,would it be possible to add some removeable endloops to either end of your little railroad.That way you could continuous run for breaking in the locos and those times you just want to watch trains.

well I'll jump in here

We have very similar setups

Mine will start and end behind the door to the layout room (read this as "the rest of the world")

trains will enter from behind the door, drop, switch and pick up take a turn on the gallows turn table at some point, visit the shop or atleast take on water and wood and then exit the same way they arrived. after a session i can reload the loco behind the door.

basically using the area behind the door as hidden staging.

i also will have another loco for switchung or light duty (a Porter)

what do ya think?

Mj

Thanks Tyson,

Mine's 16 sq.ft. but I'm already planning a larger L shaped 10x20 layout for sometime late next year. My rule is this one has to be compketed well enough for pictures to be published before I can start on a new one, of course I'll keep this one too! Good luck on your On30 adventure, be sure to post pics for us!

Terry,

I'll have to get in touch with Jim. I just got a new computer and the old one is going to the basement for use programming DCC decoders. The program I use (JMRI) has a script editor built in. It allows you to let the computer run the trains according to a set schedule. I just have to try it out.

Catt,

Good idea! I have an extra digitrax booster I can use to handle reversing loops, so all I need is some foam, hinges, and some supports.

Marty,

Sounds good. Are you using a traditional yard setup for the staging? I'm going to use a traverser as I can get at least eight 42" long tracks in the 4' I have allocated for the staging area.