I intend this layout to be my ultimate layout. More than likely, I will build a separate structure for this layout. This will allow me to fully utilize the layout space. In preparation for this layout I have joined a multitude of groups that I hope will assist me in this endeavor.
Obviously, the first thing involved in building my dream layout involves creating a design. The process of designing a layout that will entertain me for 40+ years is no simple matter. I took the first obvious steps and picked up whatever reading material the local hobby shops had on layout design.
After joining the LDSIG I started reading through their primer. Wow, what a lot to learn. After I received my first issue, I realized what a wealth of information was contained in each issue. I have since gone back and purchased every back issue so that I can read every one.
According to the logic of the LDSIG, a layout can be comprised of numerous LDE's separated by filler areas or scenic dividers. Here are jumping off points to each one of my LDE's:
I am most interested in recreating Dunsmuir. Ideally, I would also like to include Gerber to the south and Klamath Falls to the north. I plan on having two interchange points along the way. One at Black Butte that interchanges with the Siskiyou line. The second interchange will be with the McCloud Railroad at Mt. Shasta.
I am still in the process of narrowing down the era of my layout. I know I want to be after the Shasta Daylight started running with diesel power but I still want to include steam locomotives. This puts me somewhere between 1949 and 1955.
I would like my trains to be approximately 20 feet long. I do not want my trains to be in more than one town at a time. I would like to have at least two or three train lengths between cities or sidings. I would like at least seven miles of track. Given the fact that a mile in HO scale is around 60 feet, that would give me at least a 420 foot main line. Hopefully, I can get even more main line then that.
I want to maintain the "west is left" or "facing North" orientation. I have walked the tracks numerous times and want to maintain the relationship of the modeled area to the real location. This will cause some interesting "opportunities".
Since I am modeling a helper district, I want to maintain realistic grades similar to the actual grades. This almost dictates an around the wall helix but it is far too early to determine the shape of the layout. I want the complexities of maintaining an adequate pool of engines at the base of the grade. This will require scheduled shipments of engines running empty down the hill.
Revised: 08/25/2003