Hello Tony, I have just discovered your channel and are impressed with your efforts I will be watching from the beginning shortly, a clue to your problem sits in the siding, I would use the tank engine to reverse out over a newly laid point then move forward to the coaches pull them off the train past the point then push them into the other platform for departure. I spent a lot of my childhood on Norwich Thorpe Station (which is a terminus)and they used this method using an 03 shunter with an attached match wagon the same method was used at Kings Lynn station too, keep the good work going Tony and look forward to seeing how you go on.
Hey Paul, wow believe it or not you are the second person this very day to suggest that. It is a very good suggestion and I really don't know why I did not think of it. I believe that I was probably to close to it, woods for trees sort of thing. I have ripped out the double track and re-laid a single track with a cross over point that will allow me to do exactly what you say. I can then decide at a later date if I want to extend the station end a little to accommodate a headshunt area. I only have a bit of cosmetic scenery tidying up to complete now then the first running session will be filmed. Thank you again for you suggestion. The support for this issues has been incredible from the community and really helped me.
interesting stuff Tony! If space isn't too tight, i would consider leaving the track and double tunnel as it used to be double tracked but at some point the RR decided to single track that section and pulled up some of the second track but not all of it. So the viewer will see that it used to be double track but now it's single. the unused track would be in the process of being reclaimed by nature- tall grass, weeds, bushes etc. just a thought. nice update and layout is looking beautiful! take care :)
Hey John, I did have a thought along those lines. Make it look post Beaching with a line taken out I like the idea of it just being overgrown and neglected though and not totally removed. That is a definite possibility now.
Hi Tony. Your layout is gorgeous. You have done such an amazing job with it that tearing it up, even part of it, seems such a shame. Having said that. It is your layout and if you will be happier with changing it, then go for it. Whatever decision you come to will be the right one for you. Good luck. Happy Modelling. Mon
Hey Mon, thank you. After much thought and ideas from the wonderful community. I decided I had to make the change. So track ripped up (that was a little heart braking) and a single line has gone back in with a single tunnel entrance. I am holding off on the headshunt as a couple of people this very day suggested a solution to loco's and coaches on the same platform. I am hoping that by the end of tomorrow I will have everything finished and the first passenger service will run back into Choberton Junction. Watch this space.
Your layout is an amazing piece of work. Something to be quite proud of. Still, it's your itch, and you will have to decide how hard you will scratch it.
Hey Anthony, thank you appreciate you saying that. I found the original design drawing which shows how it should of been really. I just got a bit over excited after half a century away from the hobby. It is a great learning experience creating, destroying and creating again. I may make a video on my experiences. It truly in the end, was an itch that I just had to scratch.
Lovely layout Tony. I came across your video by accident and have subscribed. I really like the detail in your scenery. A (minimalist) suggestion for your head shunt - perhaps put a pair of points to crossover onto the second track one loco-length from the buffers. So, the train pulls in to the station and the loco goes right up to the buffer stop. Passengers alight. Loco moves back, uncouples and crosses over onto the second track, then reverses back to the other end of the carriages, crosses back to the original track, re-couples and pushes the carriages forward to the buffer stop so the next lot of passengers can board. Train then departs. I look forward to more videos. Best wishes, Angus.
Hey @angusstewart6387, welcome to the channel. I hear you and have decided to do something like you suggest only moving the crossover points past the buffers which will of course be removed and onto the extension that will be half the width of the present board so I can still sit there. This should then with a return crossover at the entrance to the station give me the ability to loop trains back round and allow shorter trains onto the smaller platform. All good fun.
Points over canal could use surface mounted ones and camouflage, that gives you what you’re looking for for, take bit of scenery out and extend platform….🤔
Hey @richardswallow1967, someone else mentioned surface mounted points and I had not thought of them as a solution. Definitely going to bear in mind but have gone hand of god for time being as the layout is really quite small ad I can reach easily. I popped over to your channel and sub'd will you be releasing any videos of your layout?
I took the decision to rip my first layout out and completely re do it and I was glad I did, even though it took a good while to get back up and running. I love the layout now and have loads of scope and I am pretty sure that even if you have one niggle it is better to scratch it and sort it out. Rgeards Steve
Hey Steve, I am right there with you on that sentiment. I realised that if I left it as a niggle it would bug me forever. So, something had to change and change is happening right now. I have ripped up the section I was having the issue with and I am now in the process of re-laying new track in that area. The extension will then happen and a headshunt put in. That should do it. Like you I will be very pleased when up and running again but I know I will have to wait until finished to be up and running again. I already have a timetable drawn up.
Hey @BlackMan614, yes the more I read up on this the more I realise that lots of things were prototypical especially towards the end of steam. I am underway now to rebuild the layout in what I think will be a better layout for running sessions short as they will be. Thank you for the comment much appreciated.
Hi Tony. We have all made mistakes, when building layouts. I do think more planning is needed before you start building. I made a scale plan, and move scale locomotives, and stock about.
Hey @AndrewGriffiths-j5t, that is so true and something that I wish I had done right at the start. But a half century gap between layouts had me keen and a little to eager to get started. Been an awesome learning curve though and thoroughly enjoyable.
Hi Tony, I have just come across your channel as it came up as a recommended to watch video, so I watched it and have to say I thoroughly enjoyed it and subbed 🙂. I am very impressed with your scenic modelling, also one of my favourite parts of the hobby! Personally, I would very much take your time if unsure and think it all through before making a decision and ripping things up! I recently scrapped my N Gauge layout and have since had a number of regrets but not to worry as I am about to embark on a new OO layout! Looking forward to what you choose to do next? Cheers Gary
Hey Gary, amazing YT actually recommending me, nice. Glad you found the channel just been on yours and have subbed and will catch up on what your doing after this. The Settle to Carlise what a great line that is. I have to admit but don't tell anyone, I actually enjoy the modelling a little more than the running of the layout. But that could be due to the smallness of the layout and the fact that end to end even running slowly only takes 15 seconds or so. Interesting you scraped your N gauge layout was there a reason. I came back to the hobby a year and a half ago after half a century away! I was HO/OO so returned to OO. I did consider N gauge and TT120 but just felt more comfortable with OO. Thank you for popping in and the wonderful comment. Take care Tony
Hey Hai, yes nothing that can't be solved with a little thought and planning. Shame I did not do that in the first place but sometimes you just have to start things so you can change them. I am about 90% sure what I am going to do now and it won't be to destructive. Well I hope not anyway. Thank you for popping in and taking the time to comment.
Hey @wickedwitch99, thank you so much. I have been bowled over by the wonderful comments on the layout. Never fear I will not be ripping it up. I will make changes probably but mostly this is lessons learnt for the next layout.
Hey @NellTownOOgaugemodelrailway, give it a go you may well be surprised it is only a technique in the end and your layout is amazing. Your attention to detail is exactly where I want to be.
Hi Tony. I think you have a fantastic layout anyway, but with your talent anything you want to do can only be for the good.👍 Love that little diorama you had will look superb when you find a place to put it. Thanks buddy. Thumbs up thumped 👍 ....Pete and Su....
Hey Pete and Su, thank you for the comment much appreciated. I did enjoy making that little diorama and think I will do some more. I will sort out the small issue of points, headshunts and the like as it really is a good enjoyable problem. Take care. Tony
for me I'd put a point or double slip in where you have indicated. At the station put in an isolation section where the loco stops and have a second loco in the shed awaiting to take up the departure. Once departed bring the first loco into the shed.. I think repairing the scenery around this section would be easier than ripping it all out. Looking forward to seeing your decision,
Hey @PondersEndModelRailway, an isolated section I had not thought of that. Have added to the list of possibilities. So great to have a knowledgable community. I was so stuck with one solution that I could not see the wood for the trees. Thank you.
Hi Tony, as a suggestion Add to points, so the closes track turns into another head shunt, to hold something.... means double track bridge still works, and you could still allow track to run into the double track tunnel portal.... Cheers Andrew
Hey Tony, that is something to ponder over as with other suggestions I had I have not thought of it that way round. I got a little obsessed with just one solution but now I see there are many so thank you for that. I am going to draw up track plans for a number of suggested solutions and then make a decision about what to do for best but will take my time. Basically, building up the courage to rip track up lol. Regards Tony
Tony, how are you? Your layout is absolute work of art please dont rip it up. The little diaramas is interesting idea but you dont need to develop your skills my friend your at the top of your game. All the best 👍
Hey Deano, so kind of you to say. Always things to learn and improve on so I think. I am not going to do anything just yet will sleep a while on my thoughts and the thoughts of others that has helped me to get a clearer picture of what I can and more importantly cannot or should not do. I am doing well, hope you are also.
Hello Tony - maybe u could put a point motor in that small hut, just a thought. Shame to undo all that lovely scenery. Didnt realise I wasnt subscribed so just done it and liked the video.
Hey Lyndon, thanks for the sub appreciated. I had not thought about surface mounted point motors was obsessed earlier on with under layout ones. But now that I have decided to go 'hand of god' point motors are no longer a problem. Wish I had made that decision in the beginning though it would have saved some headache. Oh well we live and learn and in the end it is all fun.
Layout looks fantastic Choby, if you wanted to add points it would be easy enough to dremel out the short length of track and retro fit them at the station end on the straight bit. The slight curved ones over the tunnel might be a bit more of a challenge, but everard junction once cut some of the webbing under a point and made his own curve on one of his videos so you might be able to do the same. Only thing is those bullhead points aren’t just a tenner each if it all goes wrong are they 🤣 I’m sure you could do it if you wanted to 👍 youll be at a thousand subs before you know it with your quality work 👍
Hey Dave, thank you appreciate the comment and support. I am moving towards putting a headshunt in and retro fitting points over the bridge somewhere. Might have to be one curved one but as you say not cheap. Such is. Keep up the top work on your channel it is such a breath of fresh air and I always have a chuckle when you upload. Great work my friend.
Hi Tony, So this came from the show you attended so:- 1 Don't go to shows. 2 Go to shows but just look don't think. 3 But just carry on and learn and do what you want. I think that any layout should have play value so its worth what we do to gain this the tunnel can stay the track can be made disused and a runner a round is worth the loss of a carrage or make it for smaller locos would a large engine pull a small train!!! We await your thoughts. Nice running by the way. Cheers Robert.
Hey Robert, thank you for your thoughts. I am thinking along those lines. I am taking the advise from many to just wait a bit and see how I feel in a few weeks before doing anything drastic which I think is sound advise.
Hey @martinbrain3372, thats an interesting idea will note that down. So many good ideas from people more experienced than I really great and much appreciated.
T, I get your fear entirely my friend, however, one thing I've realized is that if you're not a happy chap with the structure, you never will be. Redoing track and scenery, is, weirdly less difficult than you realize in my experience (which is very little), and often gives you a surprising amount of inspiration. I know you will do what is best for your sanity my friend. Well done on 800 subs, last I checked 😉
Hey Hylt, thank you for the comment and reassurance. I will sleep on everything for a while then make a decision. Lots of good ideas from people so no rush but I will need to do something soon. Yes 800 or 799 or 798 or 799 or 798 etc. YT playing its tricks again just as I get there a sub is pulled grrrrr. Tis the way of it I guess.
There were branch terminii with no run-round loops, where they'd do disturbing things, like letting empty coaches run into the platform propelled by gravity and controlled by the guard's handbrake. Kirriemuir comes to mind!
Hey @RoaminAdhocrat, I remember seeing a documentary about that sort of thing. Frightened the living out of me to think that all that stopped you crashing into the buffers was the brake in the guards van. Just shows that nothing is a no no. For me the layout was just not working as was so something had to change. Watch out video coming soon.
Great update, these compromises are so tricky to decide on. Well done on 800 subs. An illusion I can suggest with coaches is consider some 4 and 6 wheel pre-grouping style coaches but in era 3 and 4 liveries. It will cost a few pennies bit visually you nearly fit 5 coaches in the same space as 3 corridoor. Cheers Shaun
Hey Shaun, agree compromises will always be tricky but that is the nature of the game I suppose. Will take a look at some 4 and 6 wheel coaches as never thought of them. Have to say that I am getting some really sound advise from so many it really is great.
Hey Shaun, upon my return to the hobby the community I have discovered are just so amazing. Knowledgeable and friendly always willing to offer good advice. It is amazing to think how we worked almost in isolation when I last ran a layout over half a century ago.
Thank you for your reply. I did come across a terminus station laid out with two back to back points in my travels, but I can't remember where it is. I have been stewing over it since I suggested it to you! Martin.
Hey Martin, not to worry. If you do ever remember then do let me know. So much good advise has been offered up since releasing this video and it really has given me inspiration and some courage to go for a change. It will happen but just a few thoughts to iron out. Don't want to make the same mistake again.
One possible solution would be to leave the double track tunnel as it is and have a back story that the original company built double track infrastructure but the line was only ever single - as happened with the Barnt Green - Redditch - Aschurch line. Then your now non running line into the tunnel could become a siding. Is there scope to extend the platform by a coach length? Layout looks fantastic.
Hey @FeckHallBahn, that would of been quite a nice idea. I am extending the station end of the layout by enough to get a headshunt in or that is the plan but the double line has gone already. I am now relaying the single line but badly I have noted. Not easy to work over pre-existing ground and scenery. All good fun and a massive learning curve.
I can relate to working up the courage of tearing out and redoing sections of track or scenery. However, once you take the plunge, the restoration of the new area goes quite quickly. I found I underestimated my abilities to redo sections. As a bonus, new sections tend to look better because your skill set has improved. If it were me, I would keep the tunnel and bridge double track and just add in the runaround you alluded to. That would be four total turnouts (expensive) and maybe limit you to three coaches, but would allow the most flexibility.
Hey @DK-nv9zu, I think I am beginning to think along the lines you mention. I also agree that probably once started things will move quickly. Going to sleep on any decision for a while so watch out for changes to come. Thanks for the advise appreciate it.
Ripping out and starting again would seem a little extreme, unless you would be happier with that approach. However, since this is your first attempt and also you now have the experience and knowledge you are likely to come up with a better result Just saying BTW Happy New Year Tony
Hey Henry, good to hear from you and HNY. Yes if I was to start again I would do things very differently but I think that will wait for the next layout. May make a change or two on this one but nothing drastic. Hope you are both well and managing to get about any news on canal movements? ps I might have a little surprise for you two on the layout in the near future.
Good stuff. Like your layout, like your positiveness. 2 things: that doyen of model layout design CJ Freezer purposely left headshunts out as he realised in model land we always have a vast plethora of spare locomotives so we will always have one available as a pilot. 2, why a terminus? You could remove the buffers, place an over ramp at the end, and have trains stopping and reversing, but also lends credence to having a double mainline going into what is realistically a two platform station. But tbh, all of that pales before your gorgeous scenic work, that curve is just absolute bliss: the long grass, the summer Heather, that wondrous bushline. If you don't mind me saying, and don't take it the wrong way, your scenic sense is your forté, you could just pull the one track as you've mentioned, leave as a singled mainline on its final years, still runs through trains, hence a 9f, but in the throes of dwindling traffic, hence 3 coaches. Bit like S&D just before closure.
Hey @muir8009, no offence taken at all thank you for the solid advice. What you say in your second paragraph does make absolute sense and I think you are right I probably do get slightly more out of creating than running. So a single line it will become with that final years look.
Thanks for the update, it's a lovely layout and 4 coaches look good. Do you have room to tack a head shunt on the end of the layout, even if it is more narrow than the main baseboard? That might sort it if you can also add in the switch over the canal. Just a thought. 🙂
Hey @Tirnog100, you are thinking exactly as I am now. To be honest @_RandomPea suggested extending the station end of the line which I had originally dismissed as would put the base board where my head is when I sit. But like you say it does not need to be full width. That could work and I am seriously now looking to extend to get a headshunt in with a switchover somewhere around the canal. Very exciting. I am not going to rush into this though as rushing got me in this slight mess in the first place lol. Watch out for updates as I decide and change things. Thanks for popping in and the great advise.
Hey Mick, I did think about extending the layout but that is where I sit for my other life in the shared room. So probably cannot go any further along from the end of the station (at the moment) I would love a turntable but I think that will be on the next layout.
Easy! With a bit of good old fashioned Scottish ingenuity! Firstly, stick a set of buffers on the inner line at the tunnel mouth. Instantly down to single-line running and you gain a head-shunt that end. Stick a point motor in that conveniently perfectly positioned little shed with some "wire in tube" sunk into the board to connect to the point. A ground lever frame would look perfect next to it. Secondly, put in your switch points at the station end, but don't worry about parking on them. No need to reduce the train lengths! Here's how we're going to fix everything. Your resident station pilot is going to run up the line, over your new curved point, couple to the rear of the train and pull it out of the station just enough to allow your now light loco to cross over the points and wait at the end of platform 2. Your pilot pushes the train back right up to the buffers, uncouples and then goes back to its siding. Your light loco will now run round the train, couple up to the rear and away it goes. This is exactly how they do it at Mallaig where they put seven-coach trains into a platform designed for four! Hope that helps. Cheers. Mike.
Hey Mike, thank you for that amazing thinking through of the issue. I like the idea of the local pilot taking the coaches away allowing the loco out onto platform 2 and back to 1 once coaches replaced there. That really would work. I have already changed the double track to a single track with a crossover point so your suggestion will work with that. More shunting and running in the small area which is great. I may still at some point put a headshunt in at the station end but for now I can work with your suggestion which my become permanent. Thank you for that. Just got to finish the new single tunnel entrance and then I can start to run a session which I will film. Regards Tony
It is a nicely constructed layout and would be a shame to have to a large renovation. What feels odd to me is a train arriving on the "down" line, not on the "up" line, regardless of whether it runs into the "up" or "down" platform. That would make your suggested pointwork cross the other way. It is difficult to come up with suggestions without knowing if your locos would just run round and haul tender first or run off to find a turntable (ie fiddle yard). Also how do you envisage goods trains arriving and departing? Can the "down" platform be extended at the station throat to give room for a headshunt? Could you use a camera release cable connected to a point motor to snake up the hill to actuate a point crossing by the tunnel?
Hey @ProfPtarmigan, all very good questions. I agree about the train arriving on the 'down' line that always felt odd to me but the platform nearest the front of the layout is to small for anything really apart from some goods. You have though just given me another idea that I will note down with all the others. Not going to rush into any decision just yet going to leave it a few days/weeks then decide what to do. Thanks again for the suggestions.
Old boys and their toys are never satisfied with what they have achieved and that coming from someone that knows nought about railways, apart from they run in and out of Aberdeen, across the river Dee on an bridge that spans 6 arches before heading to the coast that takes it south. But I'm the same as you Tony, I complete dioramas and when finished think they need extras - see old boys and their toys, as I started this with !!
Hey Atholl my friend, you are right 'old boys and their toys' spot on. Like so many and as you have pointed out, I don't think I am ever truly happy with the outcome but I learn to move on.
Another little lineside hut would hide a point motor over the bridge, Mr beaching could be blamed for the loss of trackage which would save a whole remodel of the tunnel portal, Though I suspect the seeds of a redesign are already sown.
Hey Clive, I have decided now that 'hand of god' will be implemented for point changing. Shame I did not make that decision earlier on. But I was looking to have point motors even on this small layout to see how they fitted. Since discovered that there are many types so will save that for the next layout which of course will be much bigger lol. I did have a half thought of doing a post Beaching end of life station and track taking some of it out of action and making it look unused and neglected and I still might go that way.
Grace has just said “that’s an awesome moustache i always think it’s rule 1, your layout your rules, but take some time before ripping everything up is my opinion
Hey Rob and Grace, thank you folks I will take some time. I have a mind to brake any changes down into stages to make it easier on the soul. I may do nothing after all. First I will complete the scenery then I will think some more about it. Glad you like tash Grace.
First of all that backscene was a triple take: "Hey that's pretty good" "No it is good" "Actually it's bloody good!" I'm not always one for people's artistic attempts but that is really great, I'm most impressed. As for you're dilemma a couple of curved points on the way in and use the second line up to the double tunnel as a headshunt and block it off at the tunnel mouth. Two points in the station to run around and there you go. There are many run arounds where the carriages are pushed clear first before the locomotive pulls clear and the runs around before pushing the coaches back a bit in the station.
Hey Tony, I had not thought of doing it that way round that could solve the issue nicely. I am going to take all the suggestions from everyone and draw up track plans this time to really see what I can do, what is the easiest and what gets me what I feel I need. Thank you.
Good idea to draw up a number of trackplans first and decide. Just take your time and do what you think is best for you and tell the story you want with the railway. As others have said rule 1.
So true the 'rule one' rule. Mind you that was got me where I am today lol. To be honest without getting to where I am today I would not of known of the issues no matter how many plans I drew up. All great fun and part of it just like the real world, change happens.
Hi I think your layout is a bit small, ok for a small country station though, but your scenery is very good, end to end layouts are a bit limiting, but if you have a much larger freight yard on one side and an engine shed on the other side that would improve things.
Hey @davidlee9024, yes I knew when I started this project that the layout would be small but possibly now it is too small as you say. I have learnt a lot though during this build and it will all go towards the next layout even if only plan it better before I start. The freight yard and engine shed idea is interesting I have noted that down with everything. I am going to sit on this for a while now before I decide what to do. But, basically I think my ideas are bigger now than the layout area. So as Rod Stewart advised Jools Holland, make your layout in the biggest room you have as you will want to expand.
Hi tony there is another option that could keep your 4 coaches and that is a removable section over the end which I'm assuming is where the loft hatch is ? Then you can keep your double track set up ??
Hey Brian, I am in a 1/3 part of a converted roof space that has doors into the eaves on every wall hence layout up high. The problem is this is a dual purpose space, half to the layout and half to my music studio. So cannot go much further past the station although I think I can get a half width board in that will give me the headshunt. Thank you for the suggestion we are thinking on the same lines.
It's a pity you're not near our local model shop, Tony. Paul Lunn does a free planning and design clinic once a month, where he talks through your ideas for your layout and offers free advice. Dylan has been going and has received some really good advice on his 009-layout plans. The layout Dylan is building is his own plan, but Paul has given him some great ideas. One of the best ones was to move a set of points and replace it with a straight piece of track that was behind the point and put the point where the straight was. That simple change created more room for a headshunt in the goodsyard. I'm looking forward to seeing how you resolve your issues...cheers James 🙂👍
Hey James, now that is a shame as that is probably what I really needed right at the start. Oh well we live and learn as they say. Will we see Dylan's new 009 layout at some point? I am going to sit on all the advice I have been given so far and ruminate before making any decision. It will get resolved one way or another and I am quiet excited about that.
@ChobertonJunction Paul is very good. He does the PECO track plan books as well as writes for Hornby Magazine. He's also helped me with mine, although I'm only at the baseboard stage. In fact, mine is in a new bookazine 'By Design 'he's done which has recently been released. Dylan is doing a series following his 009-layout build on the channel. He's on episode 8 now, in which he's building a 3D printed steam tram... Cheers James 🙂👍
@@ChobertonJunction he does attend some model railway exhibitions where he does free planning and design clinics, but I don't know whereabouts he's going or if he'll be anywhere near you. I'm not sure what area you are based in anyway. He's also got a couple of books out and a DVD.
I'll keep an eye out but the books and/or DVD may be more helpful at the moment. I sort of based my layout in the era 5 so can run steam and diesel and I also wanted to have a heritage touch so can mix and match them. Well that was the idea but we all know how ideas can change. All fun and very exciting.
Hey mate. Down line is dependent on what's percieved I think, i.e. north and south. I think that point could fit further down, but I had no end of issues with those curved points derailing. Have you got a trackplan drawn up? Id be happy to help out if you need one, just need sizes. I think with a little modification you could get points in nearer the station.. will need some track lifting mind 😢 Leave the double tunnel. No need to lose that. Tunnel was built for 2 track railway as i mentioned on the last update. The other thing is... You could easily pull this up, redesign and start again and be up and running in a few weeks with the skills and experience gained so far.
Hey @_RandomPea, so much to think about in a good way. So many good ideas from everybody I am sure I can solve this one way or another or at least get a compromise that will work. The fear of lifting up track and relaying is the real problem but I will build up to that. Now that I have decided that 'hand of god' will be used instead of point motors I can do anything. Shame I did not make that decision earlier. Oh well all part of the fun.
@ChobertonJunction I mean if it works for king mouldy raspberry mate then I'd say it will be fine. My use of point motors is more due to the position of the layout or id not have bothered myself. I think I've managed to draw your track plan on anyrail btw, not sure if you got my email ?
Just checked and got your first email thank you and the suggestion of extending is now something I am seriously considering. I originally threw that idea out as any extension would have me banging my head but a half board depth extension might just work. Thank you for the suggestion.
Hey @Fred-Wilbury, a headshunt is usually a single siding at the end of a loop or yard that allows locos to run around trains without blocking main lines.
Nothing has to change except the layout of the track. I have an easy-peasy solution for you. What you need to do is take up the two lengths of track as far as the station throat. Relay them with a set of points at each end to make a loop and viola. Keep the double track part, many main line termini have double track layouts in real life as well as a run-round loop. The one thing to bear in mind is the train length, it's no good running a large tender engine and a long goods or passenger train into the loop, only to find the train is fouling the points at both ends. That's a no-no. Try running a small tank engine and a short goods train into the loop first, so you get the idea of what can fit in comfortably. The loop points at the station throat end, can be a bit beyond if more of a loop length is required. Look at a photo of station throat points on a preserved railway, and it will give you guidance.
Hey @kellyashfordtrains2642, I will do some research as you suggest that is a good idea. I am going to sit on this for a while to see where I feel I may go once the scenery is all but complete. Thanks for the top advise appreciated.
Hey @signalcabin, I will ignore. This time it is just my OCD making me think it is looking wrong but as you say 'Rule 1' so I will leave for now with a mind to change it in stages.
Well Tony, I would hate to sway you in any direction and therefore I am no help in your decision dilemma. If I were able to influence what you do and you hated it in the end you may subconsciously transfer that hate to me, poor Jersey Bill, lol. You could just put it off like my wife said to me on New Years Eve "Mabe Next Year", LOL. Good luck and nice video, Jersey Bill
Hey Jersey Bill, I appreciate what you are saying but honestly there are many good ideas coming through from many people and a lot are bits of what I have thought about so I could only blame myself in the end if it went wrong again. It was my own fault in the first place but I am aware that there were reasons for me doing what I did with the layout even if I am unsure of them now. lol. I will get it resolved to some sort of satisfaction but until then I will continue to model and enjoy. Thank you for popping in and the comment.
Hello Tony, I have just discovered your channel and are impressed with your efforts I will be watching from the beginning shortly, a clue to your problem sits in the siding, I would use the tank engine to reverse out over a newly laid point then move forward to the coaches pull them off the train past the point then push them into the other platform for departure. I spent a lot of my childhood on Norwich Thorpe Station (which is a terminus)and they used this method using an 03 shunter with an attached match wagon the same method was used at Kings Lynn station too, keep the good work going Tony and look forward to seeing how you go on.
Hey Paul, wow believe it or not you are the second person this very day to suggest that. It is a very good suggestion and I really don't know why I did not think of it. I believe that I was probably to close to it, woods for trees sort of thing. I have ripped out the double track and re-laid a single track with a cross over point that will allow me to do exactly what you say. I can then decide at a later date if I want to extend the station end a little to accommodate a headshunt area. I only have a bit of cosmetic scenery tidying up to complete now then the first running session will be filmed. Thank you again for you suggestion. The support for this issues has been incredible from the community and really helped me.
interesting stuff Tony! If space isn't too tight, i would consider leaving the track and double tunnel as it used to be double tracked but at some point the RR decided to single track that section and pulled up some of the second track but not all of it. So the viewer will see that it used to be double track but now it's single. the unused track would be in the process of being reclaimed by nature- tall grass, weeds, bushes etc. just a thought. nice update and layout is looking beautiful! take care :)
Hey John, I did have a thought along those lines. Make it look post Beaching with a line taken out I like the idea of it just being overgrown and neglected though and not totally removed. That is a definite possibility now.
Hi Tony.
Your layout is gorgeous. You have done such an amazing job with it that tearing it up, even part of it, seems such a shame.
Having said that. It is your layout and if you will be happier with changing it, then go for it.
Whatever decision you come to will be the right one for you.
Good luck.
Happy Modelling.
Mon
Hey Mon, thank you. After much thought and ideas from the wonderful community. I decided I had to make the change. So track ripped up (that was a little heart braking) and a single line has gone back in with a single tunnel entrance. I am holding off on the headshunt as a couple of people this very day suggested a solution to loco's and coaches on the same platform. I am hoping that by the end of tomorrow I will have everything finished and the first passenger service will run back into Choberton Junction. Watch this space.
Your layout is an amazing piece of work. Something to be quite proud of. Still, it's your itch, and you will have to decide how hard you will scratch it.
Hey Anthony, thank you appreciate you saying that. I found the original design drawing which shows how it should of been really. I just got a bit over excited after half a century away from the hobby. It is a great learning experience creating, destroying and creating again. I may make a video on my experiences. It truly in the end, was an itch that I just had to scratch.
Lovely layout Tony. I came across your video by accident and have subscribed. I really like the detail in your scenery.
A (minimalist) suggestion for your head shunt - perhaps put a pair of points to crossover onto the second track one loco-length from the buffers. So, the train pulls in to the station and the loco goes right up to the buffer stop. Passengers alight. Loco moves back, uncouples and crosses over onto the second track, then reverses back to the other end of the carriages, crosses back to the original track, re-couples and pushes the carriages forward to the buffer stop so the next lot of passengers can board. Train then departs.
I look forward to more videos. Best wishes, Angus.
Hey @angusstewart6387, welcome to the channel. I hear you and have decided to do something like you suggest only moving the crossover points past the buffers which will of course be removed and onto the extension that will be half the width of the present board so I can still sit there. This should then with a return crossover at the entrance to the station give me the ability to loop trains back round and allow shorter trains onto the smaller platform. All good fun.
Points over canal could use surface mounted ones and camouflage, that gives you what you’re looking for for, take bit of scenery out and extend platform….🤔
Hey @richardswallow1967, someone else mentioned surface mounted points and I had not thought of them as a solution. Definitely going to bear in mind but have gone hand of god for time being as the layout is really quite small ad I can reach easily. I popped over to your channel and sub'd will you be releasing any videos of your layout?
I took the decision to rip my first layout out and completely re do it and I was glad I did, even though it took a good while to get back up and running. I love the layout now and have loads of scope and I am pretty sure that even if you have one niggle it is better to scratch it and sort it out.
Rgeards
Steve
Hey Steve, I am right there with you on that sentiment. I realised that if I left it as a niggle it would bug me forever. So, something had to change and change is happening right now. I have ripped up the section I was having the issue with and I am now in the process of re-laying new track in that area. The extension will then happen and a headshunt put in. That should do it. Like you I will be very pleased when up and running again but I know I will have to wait until finished to be up and running again. I already have a timetable drawn up.
Don't worry about it. It's prototypical. The mainline near me removed 1 track, including tunnel, bridges and of course the track.
Hey @BlackMan614, yes the more I read up on this the more I realise that lots of things were prototypical especially towards the end of steam. I am underway now to rebuild the layout in what I think will be a better layout for running sessions short as they will be. Thank you for the comment much appreciated.
Hi Tony. We have all made mistakes, when building layouts. I do think more planning is needed before you start building. I made a scale plan, and move scale locomotives, and stock about.
Hey @AndrewGriffiths-j5t, that is so true and something that I wish I had done right at the start. But a half century gap between layouts had me keen and a little to eager to get started. Been an awesome learning curve though and thoroughly enjoyable.
Hi Tony, I have just come across your channel as it came up as a recommended to watch video, so I watched it and have to say I thoroughly enjoyed it and subbed 🙂. I am very impressed with your scenic modelling, also one of my favourite parts of the hobby! Personally, I would very much take your time if unsure and think it all through before making a decision and ripping things up! I recently scrapped my N Gauge layout and have since had a number of regrets but not to worry as I am about to embark on a new OO layout! Looking forward to what you choose to do next? Cheers Gary
Hey Gary, amazing YT actually recommending me, nice. Glad you found the channel just been on yours and have subbed and will catch up on what your doing after this. The Settle to Carlise what a great line that is. I have to admit but don't tell anyone, I actually enjoy the modelling a little more than the running of the layout. But that could be due to the smallness of the layout and the fact that end to end even running slowly only takes 15 seconds or so. Interesting you scraped your N gauge layout was there a reason. I came back to the hobby a year and a half ago after half a century away! I was HO/OO so returned to OO. I did consider N gauge and TT120 but just felt more comfortable with OO. Thank you for popping in and the wonderful comment. Take care Tony
Interresting Dial.... problem you have Tony. I will leave the Choises to you. ;-) Greetings from Hai
Hey Hai, yes nothing that can't be solved with a little thought and planning. Shame I did not do that in the first place but sometimes you just have to start things so you can change them. I am about 90% sure what I am going to do now and it won't be to destructive. Well I hope not anyway. Thank you for popping in and taking the time to comment.
I agree with one of the other comments. Your layout is absolute work of art please don't rip it up.
Hey @wickedwitch99, thank you so much. I have been bowled over by the wonderful comments on the layout. Never fear I will not be ripping it up. I will make changes probably but mostly this is lessons learnt for the next layout.
Tony really good. I do like the back scene wish my artistic skills were as good
Hey @NellTownOOgaugemodelrailway, give it a go you may well be surprised it is only a technique in the end and your layout is amazing. Your attention to detail is exactly where I want to be.
Hi Tony.
I think you have a fantastic layout anyway, but with your talent anything you want to do can only be for the good.👍
Love that little diorama you had will look superb when you find a place to put it.
Thanks buddy.
Thumbs up thumped 👍
....Pete and Su....
Hey Pete and Su, thank you for the comment much appreciated. I did enjoy making that little diorama and think I will do some more. I will sort out the small issue of points, headshunts and the like as it really is a good enjoyable problem. Take care. Tony
This video just popped up on my feed and I really enjoyed it, lovely layout you have 👍 subscribed 👌
Hey @WayneAtkinson89, thank you for the sub and comment. Always appreciate people popping in and enjoying the content.
for me I'd put a point or double slip in where you have indicated. At the station put in an isolation section where the loco stops and have a second loco in the shed awaiting to take up the departure. Once departed bring the first loco into the shed.. I think repairing the scenery around this section would be easier than ripping it all out.
Looking forward to seeing your decision,
Hey @PondersEndModelRailway, an isolated section I had not thought of that. Have added to the list of possibilities. So great to have a knowledgable community. I was so stuck with one solution that I could not see the wood for the trees. Thank you.
Hi Tony, as a suggestion
Add to points, so the closes track turns into another head shunt, to hold something.... means double track bridge still works, and you could still allow track to run into the double track tunnel portal....
Cheers
Andrew
Hey Tony, that is something to ponder over as with other suggestions I had I have not thought of it that way round. I got a little obsessed with just one solution but now I see there are many so thank you for that. I am going to draw up track plans for a number of suggested solutions and then make a decision about what to do for best but will take my time. Basically, building up the courage to rip track up lol. Regards Tony
Tony, how are you?
Your layout is absolute work of art please dont rip it up.
The little diaramas is interesting idea but you dont need to develop your skills my friend your at the top of your game.
All the best 👍
Hey Deano, so kind of you to say. Always things to learn and improve on so I think. I am not going to do anything just yet will sleep a while on my thoughts and the thoughts of others that has helped me to get a clearer picture of what I can and more importantly cannot or should not do. I am doing well, hope you are also.
Hope your doing well tony, layouts looking great! Congrats on 800 subs mate!
Hey @jackstrains4468, thank you. Who would of thought it, amazing.
Hello Tony - maybe u could put a point motor in that small hut, just a thought. Shame to undo all that lovely scenery. Didnt realise I wasnt subscribed so just done it and liked the video.
Hey Lyndon, thanks for the sub appreciated. I had not thought about surface mounted point motors was obsessed earlier on with under layout ones. But now that I have decided to go 'hand of god' point motors are no longer a problem. Wish I had made that decision in the beginning though it would have saved some headache. Oh well we live and learn and in the end it is all fun.
Layout looks fantastic Choby, if you wanted to add points it would be easy enough to dremel out the short length of track and retro fit them at the station end on the straight bit. The slight curved ones over the tunnel might be a bit more of a challenge, but everard junction once cut some of the webbing under a point and made his own curve on one of his videos so you might be able to do the same. Only thing is those bullhead points aren’t just a tenner each if it all goes wrong are they 🤣 I’m sure you could do it if you wanted to 👍 youll be at a thousand subs before you know it with your quality work 👍
Hey Dave, thank you appreciate the comment and support. I am moving towards putting a headshunt in and retro fitting points over the bridge somewhere. Might have to be one curved one but as you say not cheap. Such is. Keep up the top work on your channel it is such a breath of fresh air and I always have a chuckle when you upload. Great work my friend.
Hi Tony,
So this came from the show you attended so:-
1 Don't go to shows.
2 Go to shows but just look don't think.
3 But just carry on and learn and do what you want.
I think that any layout should have play value so its worth what we do to gain this the tunnel can stay the track can be made disused and a runner a round is worth the loss of a carrage or make it for smaller locos would a large engine pull a small train!!! We await your thoughts. Nice running by the way.
Cheers Robert.
Hey Robert, thank you for your thoughts. I am thinking along those lines. I am taking the advise from many to just wait a bit and see how I feel in a few weeks before doing anything drastic which I think is sound advise.
What about putting two curved points back to back so that you can retain the double track tunnel. Would give interesting operations.
Hey @martinbrain3372, thats an interesting idea will note that down. So many good ideas from people more experienced than I really great and much appreciated.
T, I get your fear entirely my friend, however, one thing I've realized is that if you're not a happy chap with the structure, you never will be. Redoing track and scenery, is, weirdly less difficult than you realize in my experience (which is very little), and often gives you a surprising amount of inspiration. I know you will do what is best for your sanity my friend. Well done on 800 subs, last I checked 😉
Hey Hylt, thank you for the comment and reassurance. I will sleep on everything for a while then make a decision. Lots of good ideas from people so no rush but I will need to do something soon. Yes 800 or 799 or 798 or 799 or 798 etc. YT playing its tricks again just as I get there a sub is pulled grrrrr. Tis the way of it I guess.
There were branch terminii with no run-round loops, where they'd do disturbing things, like letting empty coaches run into the platform propelled by gravity and controlled by the guard's handbrake. Kirriemuir comes to mind!
Hey @RoaminAdhocrat, I remember seeing a documentary about that sort of thing. Frightened the living out of me to think that all that stopped you crashing into the buffers was the brake in the guards van. Just shows that nothing is a no no. For me the layout was just not working as was so something had to change. Watch out video coming soon.
Congratulations on the 800 subs. Thanks for sharing. Stay safe.
Hey Mike, thank you who would of thought eh? I am very humbled.
Great update, these compromises are so tricky to decide on. Well done on 800 subs. An illusion I can suggest with coaches is consider some 4 and 6 wheel pre-grouping style coaches but in era 3 and 4 liveries. It will cost a few pennies bit visually you nearly fit 5 coaches in the same space as 3 corridoor. Cheers Shaun
Hey Shaun, agree compromises will always be tricky but that is the nature of the game I suppose. Will take a look at some 4 and 6 wheel coaches as never thought of them. Have to say that I am getting some really sound advise from so many it really is great.
@ChobertonJunction Im sure the whole OO gang is happy to help 🙂 - they usually go for 20-30 each new, should be a bit less used. Good luck!
Hey Shaun, upon my return to the hobby the community I have discovered are just so amazing. Knowledgeable and friendly always willing to offer good advice. It is amazing to think how we worked almost in isolation when I last ran a layout over half a century ago.
Thank you for your reply. I did come across a terminus station laid out with two back to back points in my travels, but I can't remember where it is. I have been stewing over it since I suggested it to you! Martin.
Hey Martin, not to worry. If you do ever remember then do let me know. So much good advise has been offered up since releasing this video and it really has given me inspiration and some courage to go for a change. It will happen but just a few thoughts to iron out. Don't want to make the same mistake again.
One possible solution would be to leave the double track tunnel as it is and have a back story that the original company built double track infrastructure but the line was only ever single - as happened with the Barnt Green - Redditch - Aschurch line. Then your now non running line into the tunnel could become a siding. Is there scope to extend the platform by a coach length? Layout looks fantastic.
Hey @FeckHallBahn, that would of been quite a nice idea. I am extending the station end of the layout by enough to get a headshunt in or that is the plan but the double line has gone already. I am now relaying the single line but badly I have noted. Not easy to work over pre-existing ground and scenery. All good fun and a massive learning curve.
One of the best things about layouts is changing them!
The FeckHallBahn is about to move 400 miles...
Wow that is some move Nigel, is it just the layout or a personal move?
@@ChobertonJunction
House move, taking the railway with us.
Good luck with the move and I look forward to FeckHallBahn v2.0 when it is built.
Tony 3 coaches will suite your station just fine🌟👍🏼🤗
Hey Lizzie, yes I think you are right and thank you for confirming that.
I can relate to working up the courage of tearing out and redoing sections of track or scenery. However, once you take the plunge, the restoration of the new area goes quite quickly. I found I underestimated my abilities to redo sections. As a bonus, new sections tend to look better because your skill set has improved. If it were me, I would keep the tunnel and bridge double track and just add in the runaround you alluded to. That would be four total turnouts (expensive) and maybe limit you to three coaches, but would allow the most flexibility.
Hey @DK-nv9zu, I think I am beginning to think along the lines you mention. I also agree that probably once started things will move quickly. Going to sleep on any decision for a while so watch out for changes to come. Thanks for the advise appreciate it.
Ripping out and starting again would seem a little extreme, unless you would be happier with that approach.
However, since this is your first attempt and also you now have the experience and knowledge you are likely to come up with a better result
Just saying
BTW Happy New Year Tony
Hey Henry, good to hear from you and HNY. Yes if I was to start again I would do things very differently but I think that will wait for the next layout. May make a change or two on this one but nothing drastic. Hope you are both well and managing to get about any news on canal movements? ps I might have a little surprise for you two on the layout in the near future.
Just been on your channel that was me. HNY to you both take care and hope you both have a happy and healthy 2025.
Good stuff. Like your layout, like your positiveness.
2 things: that doyen of model layout design CJ Freezer purposely left headshunts out as he realised in model land we always have a vast plethora of spare locomotives so we will always have one available as a pilot.
2, why a terminus? You could remove the buffers, place an over ramp at the end, and have trains stopping and reversing, but also lends credence to having a double mainline going into what is realistically a two platform station.
But tbh, all of that pales before your gorgeous scenic work, that curve is just absolute bliss: the long grass, the summer Heather, that wondrous bushline.
If you don't mind me saying, and don't take it the wrong way, your scenic sense is your forté, you could just pull the one track as you've mentioned, leave as a singled mainline on its final years, still runs through trains, hence a 9f, but in the throes of dwindling traffic, hence 3 coaches. Bit like S&D just before closure.
Hey @muir8009, no offence taken at all thank you for the solid advice. What you say in your second paragraph does make absolute sense and I think you are right I probably do get slightly more out of creating than running. So a single line it will become with that final years look.
Thanks for the update, it's a lovely layout and 4 coaches look good.
Do you have room to tack a head shunt on the end of the layout, even if it is more narrow than the main baseboard? That might sort it if you can also add in the switch over the canal. Just a thought. 🙂
Hey @Tirnog100, you are thinking exactly as I am now. To be honest @_RandomPea suggested extending the station end of the line which I had originally dismissed as would put the base board where my head is when I sit. But like you say it does not need to be full width. That could work and I am seriously now looking to extend to get a headshunt in with a switchover somewhere around the canal. Very exciting. I am not going to rush into this though as rushing got me in this slight mess in the first place lol. Watch out for updates as I decide and change things. Thanks for popping in and the great advise.
Nice update Tony.Could you extend the station tracks and fit a turntable🤔
Hey Mick, I did think about extending the layout but that is where I sit for my other life in the shared room. So probably cannot go any further along from the end of the station (at the moment) I would love a turntable but I think that will be on the next layout.
Easy! With a bit of good old fashioned Scottish ingenuity!
Firstly, stick a set of buffers on the inner line at the tunnel mouth. Instantly down to single-line running and you gain a head-shunt that end. Stick a point motor in that conveniently perfectly positioned little shed with some "wire in tube" sunk into the board to connect to the point. A ground lever frame would look perfect next to it.
Secondly, put in your switch points at the station end, but don't worry about parking on them. No need to reduce the train lengths!
Here's how we're going to fix everything.
Your resident station pilot is going to run up the line, over your new curved point, couple to the rear of the train and pull it out of the station just enough to allow your now light loco to cross over the points and wait at the end of platform 2. Your pilot pushes the train back right up to the buffers, uncouples and then goes back to its siding. Your light loco will now run round the train, couple up to the rear and away it goes.
This is exactly how they do it at Mallaig where they put seven-coach trains into a platform designed for four!
Hope that helps.
Cheers. Mike.
Hey Mike, thank you for that amazing thinking through of the issue. I like the idea of the local pilot taking the coaches away allowing the loco out onto platform 2 and back to 1 once coaches replaced there. That really would work. I have already changed the double track to a single track with a crossover point so your suggestion will work with that. More shunting and running in the small area which is great. I may still at some point put a headshunt in at the station end but for now I can work with your suggestion which my become permanent. Thank you for that. Just got to finish the new single tunnel entrance and then I can start to run a session which I will film. Regards Tony
It is a nicely constructed layout and would be a shame to have to a large renovation. What feels odd to me is a train arriving on the "down" line, not on the "up" line, regardless of whether it runs into the "up" or "down" platform. That would make your suggested pointwork cross the other way. It is difficult to come up with suggestions without knowing if your locos would just run round and haul tender first or run off to find a turntable (ie fiddle yard). Also how do you envisage goods trains arriving and departing?
Can the "down" platform be extended at the station throat to give room for a headshunt?
Could you use a camera release cable connected to a point motor to snake up the hill to actuate a point crossing by the tunnel?
Hey @ProfPtarmigan, all very good questions. I agree about the train arriving on the 'down' line that always felt odd to me but the platform nearest the front of the layout is to small for anything really apart from some goods. You have though just given me another idea that I will note down with all the others. Not going to rush into any decision just yet going to leave it a few days/weeks then decide what to do. Thanks again for the suggestions.
Old boys and their toys are never satisfied with what they have achieved and that coming from someone that knows nought about railways, apart from they run in and out of Aberdeen, across the river Dee on an bridge that spans 6 arches before heading to the coast that takes it south.
But I'm the same as you Tony, I complete dioramas and when finished think they need extras - see old boys and their toys, as I started this with !!
Hey Atholl my friend, you are right 'old boys and their toys' spot on. Like so many and as you have pointed out, I don't think I am ever truly happy with the outcome but I learn to move on.
Another little lineside hut would hide a point motor over the bridge, Mr beaching could be blamed for the loss of trackage which would save a whole remodel of the tunnel portal, Though I suspect the seeds of a redesign are already sown.
Hey Clive, I have decided now that 'hand of god' will be implemented for point changing. Shame I did not make that decision earlier on. But I was looking to have point motors even on this small layout to see how they fitted. Since discovered that there are many types so will save that for the next layout which of course will be much bigger lol. I did have a half thought of doing a post Beaching end of life station and track taking some of it out of action and making it look unused and neglected and I still might go that way.
Grace has just said “that’s an awesome moustache
i always think it’s rule 1, your layout your rules, but take some time before ripping everything up is my opinion
Hey Rob and Grace, thank you folks I will take some time. I have a mind to brake any changes down into stages to make it easier on the soul. I may do nothing after all. First I will complete the scenery then I will think some more about it. Glad you like tash Grace.
First of all that backscene was a triple take:
"Hey that's pretty good"
"No it is good"
"Actually it's bloody good!"
I'm not always one for people's artistic attempts but that is really great, I'm most impressed.
As for you're dilemma a couple of curved points on the way in and use the second line up to the double tunnel as a headshunt and block it off at the tunnel mouth. Two points in the station to run around and there you go. There are many run arounds where the carriages are pushed clear first before the locomotive pulls clear and the runs around before pushing the coaches back a bit in the station.
Hey Tony, I had not thought of doing it that way round that could solve the issue nicely. I am going to take all the suggestions from everyone and draw up track plans this time to really see what I can do, what is the easiest and what gets me what I feel I need. Thank you.
Good idea to draw up a number of trackplans first and decide. Just take your time and do what you think is best for you and tell the story you want with the railway. As others have said rule 1.
So true the 'rule one' rule. Mind you that was got me where I am today lol. To be honest without getting to where I am today I would not of known of the issues no matter how many plans I drew up. All great fun and part of it just like the real world, change happens.
Hi I think your layout is a bit small, ok for a small country station though, but your scenery is very good, end to end layouts are a bit limiting, but if you have a much larger freight yard on one side and an engine shed on the other side that would improve things.
Hey @davidlee9024, yes I knew when I started this project that the layout would be small but possibly now it is too small as you say. I have learnt a lot though during this build and it will all go towards the next layout even if only plan it better before I start. The freight yard and engine shed idea is interesting I have noted that down with everything. I am going to sit on this for a while now before I decide what to do. But, basically I think my ideas are bigger now than the layout area. So as Rod Stewart advised Jools Holland, make your layout in the biggest room you have as you will want to expand.
We all appreciate comments.
Hey @dinmorejunctionmodelrailway, we sure do. I have had some great advise from others in the comments. Always appreciated.
Hi tony there is another option that could keep your 4 coaches and that is a removable section over the end which I'm assuming is where the loft hatch is ? Then you can keep your double track set up ??
Hey Brian, I am in a 1/3 part of a converted roof space that has doors into the eaves on every wall hence layout up high. The problem is this is a dual purpose space, half to the layout and half to my music studio. So cannot go much further past the station although I think I can get a half width board in that will give me the headshunt. Thank you for the suggestion we are thinking on the same lines.
It's a pity you're not near our local model shop, Tony. Paul Lunn does a free planning and design clinic once a month, where he talks through your ideas for your layout and offers free advice. Dylan has been going and has received some really good advice on his 009-layout plans. The layout Dylan is building is his own plan, but Paul has given him some great ideas. One of the best ones was to move a set of points and replace it with a straight piece of track that was behind the point and put the point where the straight was. That simple change created more room for a headshunt in the goodsyard. I'm looking forward to seeing how you resolve your issues...cheers James 🙂👍
Hey James, now that is a shame as that is probably what I really needed right at the start. Oh well we live and learn as they say. Will we see Dylan's new 009 layout at some point? I am going to sit on all the advice I have been given so far and ruminate before making any decision. It will get resolved one way or another and I am quiet excited about that.
@ChobertonJunction Paul is very good. He does the PECO track plan books as well as writes for Hornby Magazine. He's also helped me with mine, although I'm only at the baseboard stage. In fact, mine is in a new bookazine 'By Design 'he's done which has recently been released. Dylan is doing a series following his 009-layout build on the channel. He's on episode 8 now, in which he's building a 3D printed steam tram... Cheers James 🙂👍
Hey James, will check out Paul and his plans sounds like it could help even if just looking at some already drawn out plans. All very. exciting.
@@ChobertonJunction he does attend some model railway exhibitions where he does free planning and design clinics, but I don't know whereabouts he's going or if he'll be anywhere near you. I'm not sure what area you are based in anyway. He's also got a couple of books out and a DVD.
I'll keep an eye out but the books and/or DVD may be more helpful at the moment. I sort of based my layout in the era 5 so can run steam and diesel and I also wanted to have a heritage touch so can mix and match them. Well that was the idea but we all know how ideas can change. All fun and very exciting.
Hey mate. Down line is dependent on what's percieved I think, i.e. north and south. I think that point could fit further down, but I had no end of issues with those curved points derailing. Have you got a trackplan drawn up? Id be happy to help out if you need one, just need sizes. I think with a little modification you could get points in nearer the station.. will need some track lifting mind 😢
Leave the double tunnel. No need to lose that. Tunnel was built for 2 track railway as i mentioned on the last update.
The other thing is... You could easily pull this up, redesign and start again and be up and running in a few weeks with the skills and experience gained so far.
Also, peco pl10 point moters come with an extension option btw... Do the depth shouldn't be too much of an issue if using solenoids
Hey @_RandomPea, so much to think about in a good way. So many good ideas from everybody I am sure I can solve this one way or another or at least get a compromise that will work. The fear of lifting up track and relaying is the real problem but I will build up to that. Now that I have decided that 'hand of god' will be used instead of point motors I can do anything. Shame I did not make that decision earlier. Oh well all part of the fun.
@ChobertonJunction I mean if it works for king mouldy raspberry mate then I'd say it will be fine. My use of point motors is more due to the position of the layout or id not have bothered myself. I think I've managed to draw your track plan on anyrail btw, not sure if you got my email ?
Wow thank you I will take a look at my email now.
Just checked and got your first email thank you and the suggestion of extending is now something I am seriously considering. I originally threw that idea out as any extension would have me banging my head but a half board depth extension might just work. Thank you for the suggestion.
Ps me like them coaches😁👍🚂
Hey Lizzie, ps thank you they are rather splendid are they not.
I don’t think I’ve a head shunt on my layout could I ask what it is
Hey @Fred-Wilbury, a headshunt is usually a single siding at the end of a loop or yard that allows locos to run around trains without blocking main lines.
Nothing has to change except the layout of the track. I have an easy-peasy solution for you. What you need to do is take up the two lengths of track as far as the station throat. Relay them with a set of points at each end to make a loop and viola. Keep the double track part, many main line termini have double track layouts in real life as well as a run-round loop. The one thing to bear in mind is the train length, it's no good running a large tender engine and a long goods or passenger train into the loop, only to find the train is fouling the points at both ends. That's a no-no. Try running a small tank engine and a short goods train into the loop first, so you get the idea of what can fit in comfortably. The loop points at the station throat end, can be a bit beyond if more of a loop length is required. Look at a photo of station throat points on a preserved railway, and it will give you guidance.
Hey @kellyashfordtrains2642, I will do some research as you suggest that is a good idea. I am going to sit on this for a while to see where I feel I may go once the scenery is all but complete. Thanks for the top advise appreciated.
don't forget "Rule 1 " and ignore comments from other model "Nazis" about accuracy in your own layout. Enjoy as best YOU can!
i agree 100 percent, love your music and all🎉❤
Hey @signalcabin, I will ignore. This time it is just my OCD making me think it is looking wrong but as you say 'Rule 1' so I will leave for now with a mind to change it in stages.
Hey Lizzie, thank you as a fellow musician I really appreciate that love yours to.
Happy New year Tony🎉🎉, did ya see my 9F?
Hey Lizzie, HNY to you also dear lady. Can't say I did see you 9F but will pop over to your channel after this to catch up.
Well Tony, I would hate to sway you in any direction and therefore I am no help in your decision dilemma. If I were able to influence what you do and you hated it in the end you may subconsciously transfer that hate to me, poor Jersey Bill, lol. You could just put it off like my wife said to me on New Years Eve "Mabe Next Year", LOL. Good luck and nice video, Jersey Bill
Hey Jersey Bill, I appreciate what you are saying but honestly there are many good ideas coming through from many people and a lot are bits of what I have thought about so I could only blame myself in the end if it went wrong again. It was my own fault in the first place but I am aware that there were reasons for me doing what I did with the layout even if I am unsure of them now. lol. I will get it resolved to some sort of satisfaction but until then I will continue to model and enjoy. Thank you for popping in and the comment.
The head shunt is obviously an irritant for you, time to scratch the itch me thinks.
Hey Andy, yes it is irritant but I think I can deal with it when I am ready that is.