Thunder Ridge in Z

[nscaler711]

Wow you could put that on a CD just about... Which would be a cool way to show off Z... Granted... You may have to find a Marklin 0-6-0 to run on it lol.

[Mark W]

So obviously this project stalled, and here's why:
While moving some Free-moN modules around one day, I had to move the 3x6 framework from the garage to the basement. Still completely bare, it was incredibly clumsy maneuvering through doorways and such. Yes, the primary goal was a 'home layout', but in the back of my mind, I knew I would want to bring it out to shows at some point; and with that in mind and based on the difficulty moving it, the 3x6 plan was scrapped.

Well, it's been several months now, and while the Fall like weather (er, um, here on the Plains at least!) is starting to make the girls crave all things pumpkin spice, it's making me crave model trains!

I finally got a decent start on a semi-permanent yet still modular design. The mountain side is now based on Gore Canyon, and the Urban side is still to be determined. I know I want a passing siding and a few spurs or even a small town, similar to Thunder Ridge, but I haven't had a clear vision yet. 

The two 180's are 2x4', and the Canyon side modules are 18x45"


So that's where I'm stuck today. Looking for ideas on what will be the sequel layout to Thunder Ridge.
Appreciate any thoughts and ideas!

Otherwise all this Z40 Flex is just collecting dust!

[RBrodzinsky]

Mark, why not bring an industrial track off the lower main at the bottom. You can add a small switching area into the lower left corner, then come through town, maybe the backs of warehouses, connecting back to the main on the right. And even some extra track coming to the right at the front of the module. Or, make a third "local" line paralleling your double main, and then have spurs curve out at almost 90 degrees to service warehouses (think Oakland).

Key will be how much switching and operations you want on this versus how much scenery. Both can add a lot of modern urban "gritty " detail.

[Mark W]

Thanks Rick.  I like the idea of spurs peeling off the mainline and think it would be good to have the mainline passing behind those industries.  Here's what I came up with.

I like how the spurs offer some basic switching without fowling the mainline, though whether or not I go DCC to allow that is still a question. 
For this version, I'd want to find some way to have a more realistic transition into an industrial park.   

[DKS]

So, I'm down for the count with the flu, and needed something to take my mind off of feeling like crap.

Here's something to get the ball rolling. Not familiar with the area you're modling, so I'm not sure about the general look. I also don't know what kinds of restrictions you may have on what can and can't be done with the modules, so this could be unworkable.



The maroon line is the mainline; the green is an industrial branch. I straightened out the mainline a little more so it wasn't quite so twisty. Most of the industrial buildings are big, modern things; I thought getting bold with building size might make it look a bit more believable, less "model railroady."

Take it for what it's worth.

[Mark W]

I'm pretty set with the mountain side being Gore Canyon, otherwise I love your transition from nowhere to rural to industrial.   

I wonder if the green line could be an interchange exiting parallel with the road bottom left instead of wrapping around. 

[DKS]

I'm pretty set with the mountain side being Gore Canyon

Just looked up Gore Canyon. It doesn't look like the track needs to be all that squiggly...

https://www.flickr.com/photos/mikedanneman/14980367156

[DKS]

I wonder if the green line could be an interchange exiting parallel with the road bottom left instead of wrapping around.

That wouldn't leave enough of a lead to work the runaround or the sidings on the left end.

[davefoxx]

@David K. Smith,

Boy, do I love to watch you work your magic with track planning.  Feel better, soon!

DFF

[wcfn100]

I wouldn't get too hung up on a transition if you're looking for an industrial park area. 

Here's one in Lakeville, MN.

https://goo.gl/maps/UKbNiCqW1L12

I worked out there in the late 80's at what was Schaper Manufacturing (inventor of the Cootie Game).  I can tell you that there was nothing around back then. 

Jason

[SSW7771]

I like the trackplan!