Follow-up on some basic concepts.
Hello Again, TrainNut,
Although my railroad hobby obsession began in December, 2007. I quickly learned that I got tired of running my trains in a simple oval. Therefore, I installed a single reverse loop so that my locomotives could run in the opposite direction. After one loop into my single reverse loop, I realized that I could not run the train in the original direction after going through the initial reverse loop. So I installed a second reverse loop. And, as you discovered, these train beds, reversing direction take up large square footages of space.
We all have space limitations, and therefore must design for that space. To a certain extent, we have height and levels of operation to consider if we keep our track plans to a maximum of a 2% incline. Modelers who install helices are really pushing the envelop of traction and percentage of incline.
Modeling books that I have read indicate that our track plans should not come closer than 2 inches from the edge. My own experience would expand that to 3 or 4 inches from the edge so that stations, overhead passenger ramps, buildings, and other scenic elements could be included within the plan.
I have not followed the next rule...but, a modeler should plan to have very, much, more scenery than track. My own layout will be redone within the next year because my 4 by 8 piece of plywood is jamed with track. It's fun to run. I normally run three train consists at a time; and, all my ovals have two reverse loops. It is a challenge. But, as one of the forum members said, "The track looks a little bare". It does. And, it's booring to look at, except for my ramp and two levels of operation.
Another basic element of model railroading that we should think more about is the curve radius. Just because the locomotive can run on a 9 inch or 9-3/4 inch radius, doesn't mean that it should. These small radii may be appropriate for table-top train plans, they should be avoided for a plan sitting on a 4 by 8, or larger, sheet of plywood.
My passenger cars look, so much, better running on my 19 inch radius track than on my 12-3/8 inch radius track. If I am running only 40 or 50 foot freight cars, I can use mostly 12 inch radius curves. So, we, as modelers, should be aware of what is best or ideal for us.
There are probably more basic elements that require discussion. This is enough for now. Paul Keyser