Hi all,
I'm new here, still in the planning stage.
So far I've decided scale (N, of course), type of layout (shunting puzzle), track (Kato Unitrack), and DCC (but I will ask about details of DCC in a separate post).
Right now I'm looking for feedback on my track plan. I want to use T-Trak modules. While of course the triple module is perfect for an Inglenook, if I can use a double module it will be better space wise.
I am aware I'll be restricting myself using a small loco like NGS Hunslet Shunter and short wagons.
Feedback welcome - don't worry if it's harsh feedback, I know I'm not starting with a starter set so perhaps I deserve it! :D
PDF of plan done in SCARM attached.
(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/159/11510-030426182047.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=159078)
You might add a short single siding off the curve to act as a head shunt or guardsvan siding to enable more options in shunting?
It's a classic inglenook shunting puzzle, so the layout is fine.
I wouldn't use the Unitram points, they're very sharp and (IMO) will look daft. Kato's #4 points aren't great, but perhaps try it with #6s.
An awful lot of even short wagons will not take the tram track 150 radius points as the couplings are not flexible enough so they'll just pull off the rails. Even peco set track is problematic for longer wagons when you get an S bend.
The couplings on modern UK wagons are engineering for about 9" (225mm) curve minimums. The older ones like Minitrix are about 7" (180mm or so)
I have a little circular christmas layout that is just a simple circle of track at about 150mm radius and most wagons will not run on it.
Quote from: njee20 on April 03, 2026, 08:15:47 PMIt's a classic inglenook shunting puzzle, so the layout is fine.
I wouldn't use the Unitram points, they're very sharp and (IMO) will look daft. Kato's #4 points aren't great, but perhaps try it with #6s.
Revised #4 are fine but if you are trying to be compact then peco set track is much better suited.
Quote from: EtchedPixels on April 04, 2026, 06:18:18 PMAn awful lot of even short wagons will not take the tram track 150 radius points as the couplings are not flexible enough so they'll just pull off the rails. Even peco set track is problematic for longer wagons when you get an S bend.
The couplings on modern UK wagons are engineering for about 9" (225mm) curve minimums. The older ones like Minitrix are about 7" (180mm or so)
I have a little circular christmas layout that is just a simple circle of track at about 150mm radius and most wagons will not run on it.
Good tip. I will reconsider the limitations.
Thanks!