Branch line/ISL

[NSHO]

The inbound cars would be dropped off and then switched in industry order and delivered by the local crew the same day.

I agree Larry, that's how I will operate the small yard. Cars will be left at the interchange. Local will pull the cars off the interchange and move into yard and sorted according to delivery schedule. Empties will be removed from the yard and placed on interchange for pick up 0-5-0.

I would only make 2 minor tweaks to the plan. I would move the turnout for the interchange track so that it rests by the turnout for the yard ladder (I wouldn't worry about an "s" curve since you will be operating at slow speed in this area) and I would move the turnout for the tail track on the turnaround at the right to the left for about a foot so that you have enough space for the locomotive to slow down & stop as well as elbow room.

See revision below...I moved the inter/staging turnout to the left. I don't see where this creates an 'S' curve. Are you thinking the inter/staging ought to come from left to right (where the 2 boxcars are)?

The tail track accomodates an SD40-2, I'd like to give it some more room, but would sacrifice the run around space.

To avoid having to handling them alot would highly recommend using a staging track. And it would be better in the front of the layout vs being in the backside.

This was the original plan, looking back at the first post, but then I started getting complicated by adding more to the yard The altitude of the layout is rough 42" off the ground. The reach over is easy enough and I'll cheat with a rerailer on this track either left or right

Andy's runaround idea where it parallels the yard ladder is a nice touch too.The ladder track design used here is perfect for seeing other cars on multiple tracks. the runaround option that Andy speaks of gives you access to the train while you are building it rather than reaching over and knocking/Godzilla-ing the other cars in the yard.

I've added this feature to the layout and still struggle to see the benefit of it. Why can't the engines use the ladder to come and go. Why would the cars ever be stuck out on the ladder and block?

It was also suggested I move the entrance to the left side industry. The intent was different than outcome. I can't get a decent radius that would allow an industry building to squeeze in between the two tracks. This has been done and may become a permanent fixture.

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