I had a "Eureaka!" moment last weekend and realized that by rearranging two turnouts I could create a better connection between my main and branch line, and make a spur where a third train could wait (a valuable thing since I don't have much hidden staging).
This thread isn't so much about my track plan though. Its really about the two things the track plan change reinforced in my modeler's brain:
1. Improvement is always possible. You may see how your original plan might be made better after you've spent some time with it to see how it works...or you may some day change the operations of your layout, prompting a track plan change to compliment your new interest.
2. Don't be reluctant to improve things once you see the possibility...even if you've already laid down ballast and scenary. The effort involved in reconstructing the finished look will be well worth the increased satisfaction you'll find in the better track plan.
So, to all who are concerned about getting their plan just right before building, don't get so caught up in the "perfect plan" to the point where you delay building for long. And to those who have a somewhat finished layout and notice an area for improvment, go for it!
The ultimate goal in the hobby is to enjoy yourself. Short term work can yield long term payoffs. I do hope to report in the future that this has indeed been the case for the small area I recently changed.
Best wishes!
Ralph
This thread isn't so much about my track plan though. Its really about the two things the track plan change reinforced in my modeler's brain:
1. Improvement is always possible. You may see how your original plan might be made better after you've spent some time with it to see how it works...or you may some day change the operations of your layout, prompting a track plan change to compliment your new interest.
2. Don't be reluctant to improve things once you see the possibility...even if you've already laid down ballast and scenary. The effort involved in reconstructing the finished look will be well worth the increased satisfaction you'll find in the better track plan.
So, to all who are concerned about getting their plan just right before building, don't get so caught up in the "perfect plan" to the point where you delay building for long. And to those who have a somewhat finished layout and notice an area for improvment, go for it!
The ultimate goal in the hobby is to enjoy yourself. Short term work can yield long term payoffs. I do hope to report in the future that this has indeed been the case for the small area I recently changed.
Best wishes!
Ralph