The Helix - First Layer

Using SCARM, a freeware model railway designer, I came up with a design that will allow me to add multiple levels to the layout. Each level will have room for parking 14 trains. that should do the trick. well, for a while anyway.

Still working on some kind of suspension mechanism that will allow me to extend the layout with additional layers. Thinking of adding 3 layers in total. In the drawings you can see the connecting points for next levels.

3 levels with 14 trains each. That will give me 42 trains. Add the current sidings and it will bring the total to 45+ parked trains. Good, now all there is left to do is to build it.

But for now, having a plan already gives me good reason to start collecting additional stock.

Preparations for the next step: a double Helix

The basic layout is done. Digital Control has been added. Everything seems to work fine. It is time to prepare for the next step.

One of the reasons I wanted to do all this, was to start a collection of nice trains to look at (and a train is only a train if you can actually run it). Having spent a few hours online browsing through ebay, online retailers, hornby and what not, it is obvious that my collection will grow beyond 4 locomotives.

In the current layout, the number of sidings will only accommodate part of this future rolling stock. So we need to add. And what better than to add a Helix. You know, one of those merry-go-rounds that bridges heights. Better yet, lets have two. One of the left of the tv's and one on the right. Have multiple levels going from left to right and back.

So i started drawings on how to construct these things. And I think I found what I would like to do. Will keep me busy for a while.

But I have to. There are so many gorgeous trains to be had.

Here are but a few....

Dapol Class 52 Diesel

Princess Royal Class