L-shaped layout N scale
Model railroaders love “L” shaped track plans because they offer many advantages. All about the L-shaped concept, plus an idea for a large N scale layout that is easy to build.
Large N scale track plan, L shaped
What is it all about? This L shaped N scale track plan has a maximum length of roughly 7′. It consists of 2 baseboards arranged at a 90° angle. The short side is 6 feet long.
It depitcs an extensive metropolitan region with a huge train station. We see long trains, busy traffic and a rail yard for freight wagons. City buildings, backyards, industry, a loco depot and tons of railroad facilities also delight our eyes.
Worth mentioning: There are no ramps or inclines for the tracks. Everything is at ground level. This L shaped layout is therefore easy to build. And long trains will appreciate it.
Eye-catcher is a long road bridge that partially conceals the large curve of the multi-track main line in the foreground. To keep dimensions compact, this curve eases into a tighter radius after starting with wide radii. It’s always a good idea to hide tight radii. All curve easements here are realized with standard tracks from Fleischmann N scale. Flex tracks would look even more elegant. Or what about curves with superelevation?
Although this is a large N scale layout, we don’t have a staging yard or a real shadow station. Instead, we leave our trains parked on sidings that are mostly visible. It is intentional that the trains are part of the scenery. And there are enough sidings, check the possibilities! On the left hand side a backdrop. It is placed in a way which allows easy access to the trains.
Facts:
- N scale model railroad layout, L-shaped track plan
- Tracks: Fleischmann N gauge (with ready made ballast bed)
- Maximum length layout as shown here: 200 cm. That corresponds to 6,6 ft approximately. That’s tight, better takte 7 ft.
- Slight deviations in measurements are possible. Track planning software isn’t 100% accurate
- Easy to build: No slopes, some woodworking for tunnel and benchwork
- No double switch crossings, no curved tournouts, no flexible tracks
Concept & train operation
This track plan could be operated as a simple “2 ovals concept”. In other words, two loops that are electrically isolated from each other, which enables oldschool analog 2-train operation. (I’m such an oldschool model railroader…digitally controlled model trains can of course ignore this concept!). See the operation diagram:
Note that locomotives from both loops can enter the turntable. Double switch crossings are not necessary. Ordinary common crossings will do.
The parade route in the foreground consist of a double-track main line with directional traffic and a single-track line with bidirectional traffic.
The directional traffic of the 2-track main line is shown here as right-hand traffic. But that depends on the country in question. The single-track line runs parallel. It is mainly used by freight trains or commuters.
Should all make for interesting trainspotting!
Download this track-plan here:
Download PDF (private use only)
