Help needed for prototype based switching layout

[lajry]

This is the Horn Lead Switch Map of the Los Angeles Junction (LAJ) Ry (CA). The notes are by an ex LAJ conductor. LAJ is an industry switching RR only. No real mainline just 22 leads coming out of 3 yards.

Andy, thanks for the map and industry details. Are the trains that service this area of LAJ, coming into this location, shoving/pushing the cars? Do they push the entire route from the yards? How are the crossings protected?

Shoving or pulling a LAJ train (or on any RR) to a lead would would depend on if the was a siding on or near the Lead. Not all leads had available sidings.But any shoves are protected bu someone walking or riding "the point" (lead car). They would talk to the hogger either by hand signals (lantern at night) &/or radio,