Nice N scale train layout
The track plan idea I present you here is a compact 3 x 5 N scale train layout that features a junction station at a 2-track mainline where a small single-track branchline forks off:
What is it all about? It all starts at the train station placed in the left front corner of this N gauge train layout. The station is located at a busy 2-track main line with directional traffic. We often see long trains running through the station. Later they pass a huge bridge in the background. Don’t forget an overhead catenary line if you run electric locos on this 2-track main route.
Small trains will make a stop at this station. The platforms are placed along wide curve radii, which is nice to look at. A little coaling station, some sidings and sheds complete the station area and give reasons for some shunting maneuvers.
In addition, this station is a junction point. A single-track branch line forks off here, operated by small shuttle trains (commuter). There is an extra terminus track for this. Once the shuttle-train leaves the terminus siding, it takes a picturesque route down into a romantic valley passing through tunnels and along steep cliffs. A castle sits spectacularly enthroned on a rock above the tracks.
Once in the valley, we see a sawmill and a little station that need to be serviced by our shuttle train. After that, the train disappears in a tunnel and waits there for its next mission. There are 2 short sidings hidden in the tunnel that serve as a small shadow station or fiddle yard.
Track plan N scale train layout
Basically the two-track main line consists of 2 simple parallel ovals without gradients. So you can run long trains here. Only the single-track branch line has a gradient. But this should not be a problem for short trains. The 3 x 5 KATO N scale track plan reveals the secrets:
Facts
- Size: 3′ x 5′. This corresponds to 91.4 x 152.4 x cm
- Tracks: KATO Unitrack (N scale)
- Slight deviations are possible. Track planning software isn’t 100% accurate
- Some KATO straight tracks must be adjusted to size. More: KATO length modification (YouTube). Or use KATO vario track
Track list (KATO)
Download this track-plan here:
Download PDF (private use only)
Junction station operation & concept
A junction point station must ensure that trains coming from any direction can run to any direction. So let’s take a look at the operation diagram:
If a 2-track main line has bidirectional traffic, trains must run on the correct side. The direction may vary depending on the country. In some cases, this requires the locomotive to be uncoupled in our junction station, drive around the train and then couple to the other end of the train. This N scale train layout allows all operations on compact 3 x 5:
