Input on a "Temporary" Shelf Track Plan

[Russ Bellinis]

Matt- when Stein was helping me with my layout design,I started with a 6' long layout. I soon found out that no matter how the track was configured it was too confining. I found that I was able to add a full 2'
Bob

I'm finding this is a slippery slope! I started with 8' by 7 3/4" - now I'm looking for ways to make it longer (not much of a problem to the left) and deeper - which compromises workbench area. I think if I plan too long, my "shelf" will turn into the wall, then another wall...



Seriously, I'm going to see what's realistic using Stein's, shortliner's and Brakie's feedback and stretch a little if that will allow me to incorporate all of the cool ideas.

I would suggest an alternative plan. Instead of doing a track plan that would eventually be incorporated in your layout when it gets built, just do a small switching layout that can be used to play with when you want to, can be used to test equipment to make sure it will traverse turnouts without derailing issues, and for storage as a "rip" track. That way, you can define your space for the shelf layout to coexist with the work bench without needing to make it fit future layout plans.