[Robert Stokes]

I'm also surprised that you mention set-track curves. For realism I would use (and on my layout have used) the largest radius possible. In that size you could just about get 3ft radius curves or maybe a little smaller. An advantage with fairly large radius curves is that they don't have to be hidden. I have over three quarters of my layout as scenic area. That size is also just about large enough for double track mainline although this would mean cutting the inside radius down closer to 30 inches.

My layout is wider but only a few inches longer. I have modelled a small station which is going to have platforms about 36 to 40 inches long to accomodate three coach stopping trains. However I shall also run five or six coach express trains through the station. I have a lay-by siding inside the double track so that slow goods trains can wait for the express to pass. Outside the double track I have a goods loop with entry to a two-road goods yard for the station.

I would advise not trying to fill the space with tracks but to leave space for countryside. Again I think that this would look better. You could have one long side as storage sidings either on the same level. If you put them below then you have got the problem of seeing what tracks are occupied and by what train. Also you have the problem of access if something goes wrong.

When I have found out how to do it I am going to put pictures of my layout here. In the meantime good luck with your project. Cheers, Robert.

 

[Robert Stokes]

The standard set-track radii are:- 1st radius 371mm or about 14.5", 2nd radius 438mm or about 17.25", 3rd radius 505mm or about 20", 4th radius 572mm or about 22.5".

That is why we were suprised that you mentioned them. You have space for far larger. I agree that trains look ridiculous going through the smaller set-track curves so it is why I suggest using the largest that you can. Also, since you will be inside the layout, the coaches will appear to close up as they go through the curve so will look much better than if viewed from the outside.

I would also advise against using set-track points for the same reason and an extra one. A pair of these points used for a crossover make double track that is set unrealistically far apart. In fact you have enough space to use only streamline medium and large radius points as I have done (except for one small radius in the goods yard). Even these used as a crossover give a separation which is a bit over scale.

Hope this helps. Cheers, Robert.