Track Plan Design at Chadwick Model Railway | 111.

[@paultijink4235]

Hi Charlie, you came up with a lot of work for yourself 😊. However, I recognize the issue you're addressing, I have similar issues with my own layout. Your track plan looks exciting, great job! I'm looking forward to see the progress! Regards, Paul

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Paul, what a heartwarming comment, regards Charlie

[@paredding]

That was my first thought too - huge amount of work but I can see the investment while you are still reasonably flexible. I have similar issue with 2x l;oops so 2x duck unders...not easy but stuck with it.

[@willsagraves6535]

I'm a simple man, I see a new Chadwick Model Railway video, I click on it and immediately hit the like button. Excited to see this put together!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Will.

[@pmichael73]

No one can accuse you of a lack of ambition! Well done for thinking ahead and being realistic.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting mate

[@GBDT]

Hi Charlie. Have been binge watching your videos over the past few weeks. Much better that watching the telly! Totally understand the knee problem. I am returning to model trains after 50+ years after I rediscovered my original Triang Hornby sets in the loft. My plan was to clear the loft - done, put some better loft boards down - done, and set up a layout in the loft - not done! As I was putting in the loft boards I realised that due to the restricted head room I would be on my knees most of the time. Like you I have dodgy knees which I'm on steroid injections for, as they don't hurt enough to get them replaced! So my plans have had to change. I'm now looking at the garage as a substitute. car doesn't fit in so that's not a problem. The other stuff may be! And I haven't told the wife yet! None of this has stopped me buying train related stuff. A couple of grand this year :-) . The wife doesn't know about this either! As you have mentioned in one of your videos, I appear to be a hoarder of kit at the moment rather than a user!! Best of luck on the revised layout and take care, George.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Hi George was an interesting comment. I think most of your problems can be solved by emptying the garage into the loft! Good luck with your new layout but please remember, the planning is everything. Regards Charlie

[@ZappaTime]

That's plenty to keep you out of trouble Charlie! - sympathies regarding knees, I realise that every time I crouch down to feed the cat! I got my freebie bus pass a few months ago - imagine my surprise when I saw that they'd stuck a picture of an old bloke on it!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Shocking, how could they. Let's not get old!

[@tomlewis6533]

Charlie Hello from Florida, USA. I enjoy your programs. I have an O scale 2 rail double deck layout with a helix. I built mine all by myself. 48" radius. If you divide the circle into manageable pieces and then cut the plywood so that the edges butt together to create the circle its very easy to assemble, lay track, test and continue. The most important thing is to test and get right before you cover with the next circle. Second to that, Be sure to allow a vertical curve entering the helix from the lower level and one at the top exiting the helix. My helix has been operational for over twenty years in a non air conditioned space in Florida. I'm sure yours will be a great success. Cheers, Tom

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

An excellent comment Tom, thank you kind regards Charlie

[@ModelTrainOutsider]

Well, that will be quite a new project then. Totally understood. The club I was once a member of had a layout with several members unable to step under or crawl, so they built an hand-cranked hydraulic elevator lift-up section. You go with whatever solution fits your needs. The plans look workable, so we will see how it gets on as you get into it and make the ever-present adjustments to come.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Anthony

[@tonyhill6296]

Hi Charlie, Just wanted to add my support to your use of the AnyRail software. Having mastered the use of layers I have created separate ones for baseboards; construction; dimensions; track setting out dims; track feeds; UP and Down lines; loco depot; text, etc,etc. I can then ‘turn off’ any layers not applicable to a particular printout. One great feature of this design package is that you can switch any ‘element’ of the design into a different layer - making corrections very simple. Be aware it is critical to select the correct layer as you add items or amend track plans. It have found the investment for the ‘full blown package’ well worth the money and you get updates as and when they are released. My years are much more advanced than yours and anything that reduces bending up and down or crawling about under the layout is very worthy of full consideration. I’m considering the installation of a helix too so your upcoming videos are eagerly awaited! Happy Modelling, Tony T🚂

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Yes Tony, it certainly is a brilliant program, regards Charlie

[@dlowing007]

Great video, Charlie. I, too am in that age bracket and after retiring wanted to build a model railway. I built the frame work and boards, then realized my knees and back would not take the abuse. Back to the drawing board!!! Enjoy your videos, thank you.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found the content interesting Dave. Yes, sadly we do have to plan in our own physical ability to our model railways. Regards Charlie

[@peteranslow8776]

Charlie, you have been my guide and inspiration for the last few months as I create my first ever layout. You have taught me almost everything I know and I truly grateful. But now you have let me down. "I am in my sixties" you said, and too old to be crawling under the tracks. Charlie, I am 73, and have to crawl under too! Can't change it now although no tracks laid yet, so will have to keep fit!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Tread carefully Peter!

[@gregoryhale2202]

You are a wise man Charlie by deciding to make the proposed changes before "Old Father Time" catches up with you. About 20 years ago at the age of 62 years I got sick of cracking my head as I crawled under my layout as you are currently doing. Had I left it any longer I doubt if I would be in this hobby now. I will follow with great interest the changes you are about to make to your layout. Best wishes Greg

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Greg, it’s great to have your support

[@ainsleyperry5192]

Charlie, Like all good model railway layouts they never stop growing. I the States where a helix is a much more common layout addition they put deserts, mountains city's on top of them. The new helix designs allow the operater to stand inside the helix and some have a crane system to lift the scenic board clear.Below the helix is also a cloth " blanket" to catch any stock should any derail. Happy day's ahead. Cheers, Chris Perry.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Hi Chris, great tip about the blanket, regards Charlie

[@turboandy]

Cracking video as always Charlie. My model railway is currently still sitting in boxes in my parents loft but I’ve be going over in my head these last few months about building one again in my somewhat small spare room. I never thought about putting helixes in until you said about it. Food for thought.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Andrew I'm so pleased that you found the video useful. Regards Charlie

[@Kevin-mm5ix4dc7y]

Hi Charlie, that’s a large change. I’ve been worried 😟 about your knees kneeling at all those altars 😀 Good luck with the new plan I will stayed tuned further updates as and when you can.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Kevin, regards Charlie

[@railwayjade]

Wow Charlie! A layout is TRULY never finished!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Sometimes it seems like it’s never started!

[@bobhordern5139]

Oh dear Charlie! Quite a big leap of faith here. Right decision but brave solution. Best of luck. Guess I’m 10 years ahead of you and planning my own removal of ‘the duck-under’ prompted by a bout of sciatica. At least my solution is a lot simpler, reducing to U-shape.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Getting old isn’t as much fun as I thought it would be Bob, regards Charlie

[@brianbraithwaite9493]

Hi Charlie. Have watched all of your videos but have never commented. I love your presentation and the manner in which way you present yourself, your a very talented man hats off to you. I am an N gauge modeller and get lots of ideas from you, I to have just completed my own helix using a cutting down to a six lane storage area. However I would think on the idea of a swing gate or a lift hinged section, slightly offsetting the back scene allowing entry, maybe lift out and lock section, any of these would save you a lot off Time and effort. Anyhow it's your railway. Keep up the excellent work, I'll email you some photos of my shed layout. Good luck. BRIAN

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Bryan, I can’t use the swing gate as it would need to hold around about 16 tracks. Good luck with your project, regards Charlie

[@aaronbischoff9334]

I’m glad I’m not the only one who has had a few changes during the build. I have a step under layout like this but I put two lift up or slide out sections across the doorway to allow for when I get older

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A good move Aaron, regards Charlie

[@henrikholm-jensen966]

I have used Anyrail for now 19 years, and is very pleased with the Program. Good Luck with Your new plan :-)

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Henrik, regards Charlie

[@eddyweller4503]

Hi Charlie, wow what a undertaking the very best of luck with it I'm looking forward to seeing your progress in the week/months to come. I've never seen a helix in operation, I've seen a real one when we visited Canada for my 60th birthday when we were lucky enough to see the kamloops tunnels, (think that's how you spell it not far from Jasper, it was fascinating to see a train coming out of a tunnel and the back end hadn't gone in yet.. anyway good luck with it should give us lucky people lots of interest in the future stay safe Eddy xx

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it eddy. Stay safe. Regards Charlie

[@garylaker4335]

Wow ! This is a huge change Charlie. The operating possibilities are also huge. You’ll be able to run your mainlines in ‘auto’ sequence while shunting sidings and running branchline services..... and if your like me by the time you’ve run a full sequence you’ll have forgotten what the first train was so it’ll all seem new 😔 😂!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Exactly Gary! I think the world is your oyster if this plan comes together. Regards Charlie

[@cyberdonblue4413]

As my Great Uncle used to say, "To grow old is compulsory. To grow up is to be avoided at all costs!" He lived to be a grand old 94 years young and his playful outlook made him a firm favourite with everyone. I'm now 63 years old and crawling under layouts is impossible for me with dodgy knees and a bad back so watching you do all the work while I sit back in my chair suits me just fine ha ha! Good luck with the alterations. I shall watch with interest.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks CB, old-age is a terrible thing, regards Charlie

[@davidrauger]

I've just turned 60 and I already find it difficult getting under boards to do work. Sometimes it is a bit of a squeeze to get where I need to get to as there is usually lots of stuff stored under the boards which I need to negotiate. And sod it, you've always left something on top which you need below! So I applaud your rational decision which means you can enjoy your railway for much longer if you left it as you originally intended! Railway modellers are young men in older bodies whose enthusiasm knows no limitations. ;)

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Great comment David, young men in older bodies, regards Charlie

[@robertwood3618]

Its a pleasure to watch these videos you make...Hope the knee improves

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Robert

[@peetywondr3256]

Charlie, I absolutely love your presentations. As a 70 year old just getting back into model railroading after 55+ years, I hang on every word you say. You are my go-to guy for anything that could possible pop into my head about model railroading . . . keep up the GREAT! work. As for the knees, I feel your pain. I designed my layout to not have any duck-unders for just that reason. I have thought, at great lengths, about hiding my helix in a mountain and came up with the idea to hide it inside a model of the Matterhorn from Disneyland

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Pete, what a heartwarming comment, and good luck with your layout too. Regards Charlie

[@trainmanbob]

Hi Charlie I have decided not to redo my layout AGAIN as all my track is now completed. I have the added complication of being nearly 70 with arthritis in knees, hands and other random places. I am building a small square of strengthened timber with castors underneath. I merely sit on it and push myself along to get under the layout to the centre control panel. I also have a highly protected litter picker (we call it the foam fingers lol) which is also very useful picking things up which have fallen off the track!! Cheersd, Bob

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Getting old is not as much fun as I thought it might be!

[@richardmycroft5336]

Very sorry to hear about your knee problems. I occasionally have issues with my right knee so I understand. When I designed my layout I built a lift out section with a viaduct as I knew at some point my knees were going to give me trouble. I also put my main bus line wires on my fascia, yes not as neat but I can get to it much more easily. For anyone building a layout I'd suggest keeping the issues that getting older bring to nearly all of us.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Wise words indeed Richard, regards Charlie

[@JohnC-gx2ow]

Hi Charlie, great idea to use 2 helixes. Just a thought - it would add more flexibility to have a trailing crossing at each end of the fiddle yard.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

You’re not the 1st to propose that John, regards Charlie

[@johnebert8326]

Hello Charlie! Two comments for you today. I noticed a passenger car on your layout wobbled notably, twice, around the 2:50 minute mark and a few seconds later. The train was running toward the hillside with cows. I mention this in case your car has something that it's dragging around. After watching your episodes on track cleaning and rail maintenance, I'm more focused on such things. Hope this helps. EB

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks John, I’ll certainly check it out. Regards Charlie

[@MickHird]

Hi Charlie Usual high standard and salutary stuff. I'm 61, just started planning my first layout and over the years have walked up and down too many fells - left knee's knackered. I'm too stupid to stop going up and down hills, I suppose the fear is that once you retreat once you're done for ! I think your vid reinforced a conclusion that I was reluctantly groping toward so thanks for that; the sooner that this conclusion is reached the more time is to be saved in the long run. I am particularly apprehensive about fiddle yard operation so all the comments that you have made in this regard in your vids are particularly welcome. Kind regards (no need to reply), Mick.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Mick great comment, regards Charlie

[@jolliemark6294]

Like you I too have reached the point where I can't do the duck under or at least reaching that age, but saw it coming, you are in barkin on a really big change , I might suggest using the 3d part of Anyrail to check your clearances before deciding on how many turns in yor helix you really want or need . Looking forward to see how it all turns out....thanks for sharing....Jack 👍👍👍

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Sound advice Jack, many thanks, regards Charlie

[@PaulSmith-pl7fo]

Hi Charlie. Exciting stuff. It was interesting that you mentioned a skateboard-like trolley to get under your layout. I bought in my baseboard and just assembled it today, having to lie down under it to fasten the bolts and wing nuts that hold the two halves together. The height of the baseboard is such that, lying on my back, I had to stretch upwards to reach the fastenings. I'm 64 years old and the body starts to complain! I'm still going to investigate that trolley.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

And good luck with it too Paul, regards Charlie

[@QRCoal]

Hello Charlie, The rebuilding of your layout will certainly change the look and feel of it. I have been using Anyrail for about 6 months and I think I was at plan Z before I finally settled on a plan. So I have settled on a "C" shaped layout. This meant a complete reworking of my layout. I am turning 60 in November and my issue is my hips so my new layout was built high enough so I could sit in a office chair and wheel under the layout to do wiring. It is about 1500 mm off the ground. I have had issues getting Peco track here in OZ so I have been ordering from all over the globe. One end of my new layout sits ideal as I wait for some points to arrive from England. In the process of building the new layout I am changing the layout from Hornby control to Digitrax so every bit of wiring I have done has to be redone. I have found that learning how to wire for the Digirax system with block detection the hardest. I am going to use Train Controller Bronze for auto control and well as Digitax DT500 controller. It will be interesting to watch your videos over the coming months to see how it progresses.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Exciting times for us both Peter, regards Charlie

[@richlungren8860]

Charlie, in AnyRail, if you place the cursor on an item and right click, the drop down menu has a 'Detail' choice. If you click on it, AnyRail will show all the info about that item. Also, I really enjoy your videos. I'm 72 and restarted my layout after an absence of 35 years. I understand the 'Senior' thing.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video Rich.

[@christhemastermodeller7273]

Big fan of your content Charlie and would love to see you crack this new plan. Others have commented on the difficulties of helix gradients, I just think that is a huge amount of hidden track. I quickly decided on my end to end layout Little Brickhill to avoid hidden areas to make track cleaning etc easier. I made the station bigger than normal (8 tracks) to help storage and when I add a fiddle yard it will be spurred off in a straight line past the return loops so that everything is pretty much on the same level. If you’re going to undertake all that work I would suggest going a stage further and moving the scenic boards up the wall a foot or so to give yourself the working maximum space and access. You could even look at arranging the fiddle yard tracks to slide out on a cassette again for access purposes.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Interesting points Chris, and well worth considering, many thanks Charlie

[@boneyknocknees]

HI Charlie, A very ambitious project, you've obviously done your homework. I'm sixty two, I hope I live long enough to see it! Well good luck and thanks for sharing,

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Stay with me John on this one, regards Charlie

[@m2thef2thec]

Great idea for the rebuild, Charlie. The helixes will give the impression that your trains have gone off to some distant location before returning in the opposite direction - adds great interest! You're correct about the knees, they certainly aren't what they used to be!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it mate.

[@paulhowes8756]

At 62 I opted for a bend over height rather than a crawl under height so at 69 it is much appreciated! Someone has already mentioned that James produces a helix set but my guess is that you are using him anyway... I have bought from him the Alpha meter as describes a few videos ago so well done in promoting his stuff as they are very helpful. This plan will give you much better running times for your automated movements so can't wait to see it built and running. Stay with it Charlie - for our sakes.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Paul, it’s great to have you onboard

[@kevingreen6924]

i enjoyed that. thanks again for another insight into your model world. don't stop.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Kevin, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. Regards Charlie

[@rogervipond]

Hi Charlie. Your videos have given me so much pleasure for more than a year now, I can't thank you enough. Two points that might interest you and your followers ... 1. I have been an enthusiastic user of Anyrail for around 3 years now. Which incidentally is how long it has taken me to firm up on my own putative layout design! 2. I decided from the outset to make the layout as modular and as light in weight as possible. Not because I wanted it to be portable, but so that I could build it in "self-contained " sections that could finally be assembled in their final resting place (a bay window in a spare bedroom). So, to this end, I invested in a big box of 4x2 panels of 1inch Styrofoam, with the benefit that I could also carve all the landscape out of multiple layers of this material alone. An additional benefit is that I can run all the power and control cabling in "trenches" carved out of the same material, ergo, no crawling underneath on my hands and knees! As a typical man of my generation, I struggle with all online tools, but now I will try to attach a PDF of of my Anyrail design so you can see what my final objective is ... Oops, sorry I can't see any way to do it!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Hi Roger, great comment. You’d have to email me the plans and my email address is at the end of each video. Regards Charlie

[@ianfinlay5299]

Hi Charlie, I don't have a knee problem as I am a carpet fitter and at 65 my layout is floor level in the loft keep up the great video's. Cheers Ian.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Wow Iain, what an interesting situation, regards Charlie

[@michaelmackenzie5679]

Makes perfect sense, Charlie. The proposed track plan is great. Certainly a mammoth undertaking, though. All the best to you, and especially your left knee! I am looking forward to follow the rebuild.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Michael, wish me luck on our adventure

[@michaelmackenzie5679]

I don't think you're going to need luck, but if you do, - All the best!!!

[@gibsonethirty2836]

G'Day Charlie. Well what can I say but 'Good Luck and I hope it all works out ok". Makes me very glad that my access point to my loft is in the center void rather than having to crawl under, still its a good steep climb up the ladder/steps but at least I can stop and rest half way up when I'm old and grey. (not that far from to be honest lol ) Looking forward to seeing how it all works out, just a pity we can't all pitch in and get it done faster for you (bit of a swim from here though) :D Take Care.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A great comment mate.These things are sent to try us and sadly knees are one of them!

[@CasualMan-gh4gb]

Hi Charlie, I have just found your videos about building the viaduct. So interesting and has given me some great ideas for my new n scale railroad after 30 years. Interesting to se you are from West Camel, Somerset. I am from Taunton and have lived in Canada for the past Fifty some odd years. Still miss the English countryside around Somerset, Devon and Dorset. I had OO gauge when I lived in England but lost it all when I emigrated. Will continue to watch your wonderful videos and hopefully I can become a Patreon donor sometime really soon. Stay safe.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Hi so pleased that you find the video is interesting, and it’s great to have you on board, regards Charlie

[@ldifalco2010]

I think the new track plan is a great idea. Not only will it help your knee, but It will change your layout so that trains will really seem to be going somewhere, not just around in circles. I look forward to seeing your progress on this in the coming months. Nicely done.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Lou, Regards Charlie

[@alechudson6492]

I made a low seat on wheels, it’s not too bad getting down on to it but wait till you have to get up! The older you get the lower the floor gets. I’m 67. Good luck with the layout. Alec

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Age is working against us Alec, regards Charlie

[@davidgreenwood5160]

Wow that’s a big rebuild. Really glad that you have been able to keep it a tail chaser layout though. Looking forward to seeing it come together

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks David, I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting, regards Charlie

[@WonderingModeller]

Hi Charlie, I am sorry to hear your are beginning to suffer with knee pains, can be very unpleasant. The new track plan looks great and as always I very much look forward to seeing your progress with the new plans. You asked for ideas in relation to helix scenic works.. My suggestion would be, the helix with the station/industrial or perhaps Tmd by the walk through (left side). Would you consider doing a Dawlish setting?. The trains would leave the top of the helix via a double track tunnel and run in front of some lovely scenic cliff faces, these could be scenically decorated as you wish, hope this is useful and maybe to your interest?. Keep safe, well and happy modelling 😉👍

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A couple of great ideas Dan, many thanks Charlie

[@lionellance]

Hi Charlie... I'm thinking the same thing.. no duck under or crawl under... thanks for sharing and keep up the great work... Lance

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Hi Lance, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards Charlie

[@eastmidlandparkway6267]

Hi Charlie sorry to hear about your knee problem just when you thought and we thought chadwick was near to how you had planned it but your left knee just like my right knee thought no we’re not going to let that happen I had a large end to end in our loft then I had to have a knee replacement so that was the end of that because climbing loft ladders were just abit tricky but l have now got Beighton Parkway in my 8ftx6ft shed things are sent to try us but just like the phoenix we start again I am sure looking at your new layout plans which look great you will have trains back running again good luck with it as always keep taking the pain relief and run the hst Kind Regards Kev

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks for your understanding Kev, sit back and enjoy my new journey!

[@eastmidlandparkway6267]

You’re very welcome Charlie throughout all your videos from MTD to the present day you have given model railway modelers inspiration to see what you have achieved and maybe tweak it abit for their layout loved the video of you washing the track in fairy liquid I was in stitches the video about track cleaning was informative about the different products available I have seen on another KZbin video a guy called Brian who helps with things about Railmaster which is the software that I use he uses dust monkeys that clip onto your wagon axles and then get pulled along so I have ordered a pack from Rails of Sheffield price £14.25 I will let you know how I get on keep safe Kind Regards Kev (Beighton Parkway)

[@IndigoDVW]

Hi Charlie. You said it.... we are not getting younger. Well I solved this problem decades ago. No getting under anything on my layout. All wireing is surface mounted and all electrics eg point motors, detection modules, power supplies etc are mounted at the sides, out of sight in a 'ditch', points, (Cobalts in my case), are operated via a torsion drive system. I've never ever put point motors under points. Most everything that operates the layout is about where your belly button is! The big factor in making this work is mount all your trackwork on high-density foam board and not slap down a wooden coverall base for track.and utilise the baseboard framework as a sub frame for mounting component parts, (point motors etc). Just recently I installed wireless switches on the mains so I don't have to bend down to switch the layout on! Some years back I posted a couple of quicky 'test' videos of my layout as it progressed then and there may be some things of interest there for you, like the foam board and including a look at my double helix build. KZbin: IndigoDVW

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A great comment, thank you. I’ve just subscribed too, regards Charlie

[@stewartclark1847]

Hi Charlie, enjoyed the video as usual. My belief is we always want to expand our layouts regardless of what stage there at. I hope you enjoy your challenge and I look forward following the adventure. Rgds from Down Under

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Stuart, I’m so pleased I’m keeping you entertained.

[@barryarnold389]

Hi Charlie, great video as always. I like the new ideas for the layout too. Something you may find useful - when drawing track in Anyrail, right clicking on the first track drawn and selecting "add parallel flex ..." gives a prompt for the desired track offset (centre to centre) and then you select the side to put it. It makes drawing accurate plans very quick and easy. I typically use 50.8mm, but you can put any number you like. When laying settrack curves there is also an option to create a helix! Regards Barry.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks for the tip Barry, I am slowly getting to grips with it thankfully. Regards Charlie

[@MarcusWhitelam]

You've come far Charlie, it's sad to see all that hard work go but it's worth it I'd say, I'm ready to support you on this new big adventure on your railway, kindest regards, marc whit :)

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the channel marc

[@jerribee1]

Can I just say that as someone who doesn't even have a model railway, I find your videos fascinating, and have subscribed.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

What a heart warming comment gerald. Stay safe. Regards Charlie

[@patrickwalker6039]

Hi Charlie I have just started watching your most recent video and I notice in the background as your first class 125 coaches perhaps need a back to back wheel check as the front first class coach kicks just as it enters the viaduct and again as it comes out of the cutting. I look forward to see more of your scenic work as this is the hardest part for me to motivate myself to do. Cheers Patrick

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Patrick, I'm so pleased that you enjoy the channel.

[@robertbabbs9694]

Good luck with your build can't wait to see our it progress

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Robert, regards Charlie

[@benneal3897]

A very big change happening! Sounds awesome!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Ben, wish me luck

[@johnebert8326]

This is very exciting news about your layout Charlie! I viewed a few videos from other modelers who say it's CRITICAL to allow extra spacing between tracks and between track and end of helix board (inner and outer edges). Jason @jdstucks, Eric @ericstrains, and others mention train car length, height and angle of track curves caused cars to hit each other between tracks(i,e, running side by side) and between track and inside of mountains/tunnels, particularly in helix. I too am building a U-shaped layout (O scale, 3 rail) with 2 between

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

An excellent comment John, and this is why I’m using third and fourth radius curves. Regards Charlie

[@Simonize41]

Hello Charlie. Another excellent video. I like what you have planned, it should be both interesting and fun watching the revamp take shape. I’ve always liked the idea of having the fiddle yard visible and part of the layout. Of course space is the dictating factor, but I’m sure you know what I mean. Me and my late father had a large layout in the loft of my childhood home and we deliberately made two big yards, one for coaching stock (which was adjacent to the MPD) and the freight yard was at the other end of the layout in the top right corner as you looked at it. Shunting around fascinated me and it’s probably why I ended up becoming a signalman. Happy happy days. Hmmm, yes, I miss that layout enormously. By the way, my father would have loved your channel. Anyway, I’m waffling, haha. Good luck with the project and I look forward to watching it progress. Take care of your knee. Regards, Simon.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A truly heartwarming comment Simon, thank you. We all miss our fathers involvement so much. Regards Charlie

[@Simonize41]

@@ChadwickModelRailway That we do. Thank you Charlie. :)

[@grahamthompson6622]

Good luckwith the helix. I took the same decision about a year ago and installed a 4-turn helix. I use this as what I think of as a "dynamic fiddle yard" in an automatic system and have laid four tracks on the helix. These use Peco setack radius 2, radius 3, radius 4 and a flextrack radius 5 equivalent. I had no problems with the short 16-to-a-circle radius 4 tracks. Indeed, the flextrack was more difficult getting a smooth curved joint particularly when using an insulating joiner. The main problem with a small radius helix is the gradient it requires. I only have about 5 mm clearance using 9 mm mdf + 3mm cork + 4.5 mm code 100 rail with a 3" (76 mm) rise per turn. This produces a gradient of 1 in 36 and 1 in 42 on my inner two tracks respectively. Keeping these two tracks for down trains has made the system workable although I laid these two tracks with DCC Concepts Powerbase just to be sure. It would be nearly impossible to lay this retrospectively. My 4 tracks each form one cab control DCC section and are divided into storage "slots". The inner one holds 4 trains of up to 7 coaches plus an engine, the radius 3 track holds 6 trains of up to 5 coaches, the radius 4 track 5 trains of up to 7 coaches and the outer track 7 trains of up to 5 coaches. Block Signalling supplied the electronics to allow trains on the helix to index up one slot as required in automatic sequence. The system was not without teething troubles. I eventually installed Bachmann level-crossing style re-railers on the four entry tracks to avoid problems in mid-helix. These work. More difficult was the problem of uncoupling with the stop-start nature of trains indexing up or down the helix on tight curves. Sorting this out took months and is a story in itself. The havoc caused by stray stock running down the steep gradient meeting a train coming up can be imagined. However, all is now sufficiently reliable that I am planning to install a fifth track on the helix using radius 1 curves and maybe bi-directional trains. I have worked out a system for this but have not yet started construction as I have not yet found a satsfactory way of installing the necessary additional pointwork at the base of the helx. There is too little space and access is limited. I will persevere. Thanks, Charlie, for continuing helpful commentaries.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Hi Graham, what an outstanding comment. It makes my Helix idea insignificant compared to what you have achieved. I totally understand the problems with couplings especially breakaways on the incline. My coaching stock is being converted to magnetic Hunt Couplings currently, and hopefully this shouldn’t present any problems. Power wise all my locos are diesels so should manage to climb without too much of a problem. I’ve worked out the incline to be approximately 1 in 48. Wish me luck, regards Charlie

[@bill1047]

Powerbase is definitely the answer to any gradient rising more than 4% (0 to 4” in 8 feet), especially when factoring in the tight curve which in my limited experience almost halved the climbing ability of some of my trains. Woodland Scenics’ 4% Incline Set kept me honest when it came to the gradient and it bends really well around even the tightest bend. Not stackable in a helix though!

[@dwaynejohnson4892]

I can’t believe how cool and natural to be on camera for your age.... no offense. Your age is a positive thing as with age comes wisdom... 😁 but seriously.... many people can only dream of being as cool and casual on camera as you are! Respect and love from New Zealand!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

For my age .... I'm only 26 (on the inside)!

[@dwaynejohnson4892]

@@ChadwickModelRailway my dad says the same thing! With happiness comes long life!

[@Jason-cx1gi]

Good work Charlie, not only are you helping yourself but you are helping other realise that you can make modifications at any point of the build for health reasons or just for a change. I look forward to watching your progress.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Jason, I’m so pleased enjoyed it

[@pkmntrainerdennis90]

One of the first things I had in mind when making my layout was that I NEEDED a lifting flap, cus I just knew it would be really annoying and tiresome to have to crawl under all the time, and I just turned 33 now and was only 29 when I started, lol! XD But yeah, really good idea you made an opening for you to just walk in and out, making it so much easier! :)

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

My knees were just getting shot away PK. I really had no choice. Regards, Charlie

[@jvanamb]

Well Charlie...the unthinkable has happened. For the first time since I have subscribed to you and I fully agree. But maybe not for the reason most would think. When you started discussing your ageing knees and a crawl under layout I recalled my like situation of about a decade ago. Luckily my then layout was a walk around on two levels. And as I am in a "Rehab, Refurb, Rebuild" I thought of another YT RxR modeler who built a rise up section. Interesting idea. Using counter weight to lift the desired pass through layout toward the ceiling. HMMM, maybe Charlie could save his joints as well????? Then you said something that I adored. You spoke of your plans for expansion. AHHH! A Brit afta' me own 'art. In the past whenever I desired to alter my layout for any reason, in this case ease of access, I would just build on. More benchwork. More track bed. MORE TRACK. More scenics. BUILD BABY BUILD. This extension to your track plan is phenomenal. I can clearly see the intent and direction you are heading. And I love it. AUGHHHH! This is starting to read like a Jane Austen letter between Trump and Johnson. I HAVE GOT TO FIND SOMETHING TO CRITICIZE BEFORE i EXPLODE. #1) To avoid trucking your camera about, as a fellow videographer I'm sure you know, invest in a mini-boom, or as we in the U.S. call them JIGs. You could leave the Pedestal/Tripod outside the layout and jockey the boom and camera about over the well. #2) You mentioned your were going to have an outside contractor design and build your Helix. If it is not to late try to take you rig out to the contractors assembly plant. While there do a mini-doc. on what goes in to the building process by professionals. FASCINATING. #3) Where the lower level is close below the viaduct and gorge, why not think about running the track across the lower gorge. Not need for detailed tunnel portals. The viewing would be brief and unpredictable. #4) In your lower level Fiddle Yard you mention have one passing track with an automatic wheel cleaner. That must be a thing in the U.K. And something we don't have in the U.S. Well an enhancement would be to add an adjacent track. To have a track you can section off and have a DCC program track permanently installed. Lastly, #5) and returning to production, Across the ceiling level install two lead pipes as a stationary lighting or cyclorama fly. Then you can have your scoops in place when and where you wish. As for the cyc., I also do assignments of love for charities and, I have a rear mounted fly to hang various Muslin curtains or photos background mats as a temporary cyc. ~Jim

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Stone the crows Jim, what a comment. I really can’t invest in jig etc. for a small KZbin Channel. The expense is just astronomical. I do utilise my high glide system which does come in handy but I really can’t invest in much more hardware. I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the channel, regards Charlie

[@haroldwanart]

Very good Charlie! I like your new idea!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks mate, regards Charlie

[@martinpattison4018]

Charlie, I have solved the noise problem that is transmitted from the hard ballasted track. Thanks to the DCC Guy in America. I will cover the entire baseboard with up to 1/2 inch thick foam board and build the layout on top of that using 5mm foam trackbed. Now all I have to work out is will the Platforms and coach doors line up? Martin. (Thailand)

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

One problem that you may find is point motor operation. Good luck, regards Charlie

[@martynbuzzing3327]

OMG! It's a never ending story. I suppose it makes sense as we get older we have to think of the future. Good luck, I will be watching with interest.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

It’s just a tale of woe, getting old!

[@rayopeongo]

It was a little spooky watching this video. I am also in my early 60's with bad knees (which will hopefully get replaced next summer). My primary level is 40 inches high to avoid bending. I am also using AnyRail, building multiple future versions, trying to squeeze as much track into the available space as possible. A helix or two may also be required at some point, depending on how ambitious I get. The only difference is that I am using N scale, and flex track for the long stretches. Negotiations are ongoing with the queen of the castle regarding how much territory is available for future expansion. I look forward to future updates.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Great comment Ray, good luck with your project too, regards Charlie

[@justinmuse41]

Great change me thinks Charlie, alot more scenics and great storage really good ideas there can't wait for the update with all ☺

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Justin, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it

[@peterbolton8130]

Hi Charlie, I have a total inability to bend and be on the floor, also lifting is not a good idea. I am in my 70's with health issues so I have to plan for the future as its not going to get any better. I have my layout on 5 cm thick ridgid foam base boards (almost the magic bullet for me) with everything accessed from the top. The wiring is buried in grooves burnt in with a cheap modified soldering iron and scenery mods are done with a hot knife and/or wire. I have never had much luck with bridge access so the track plan (AnyRail to the fore) is a dogbone around 2 room sides and a shunting layout over the top for all 3 sides. The distances are kept so I can acess the rails. I hope this starts some thinking as I found the foam to be much better than the ply both in weight and cost All the best with the next episode of your role of Chief Right Of Way Engineer.. Have fun and please stay safe

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A great comment Peter, getting old isn’t as much fun as we might think it will be, regards Charlie

[@IndigoDVW]

At last I've found someone that is doing things as I have done for decades... adopting an open frame, everything top mounted or imbedded in ridgid. (high density) foam base boards. No getting under the layout and everything at ones fingertips. All electrics on my layout are situated ina 100mm 'ditch' at the side including all point motors operating thru a torsion system, (rod & tube). No mounting point motors under points ever for me. I'm in the process of replacing my Canon HD vid camera after the flip-screen failed and Sony would not service it as the camera was over 5 yrs old and put together a series of short videos of how my layout is built etc so keep watching Charlie.

[@artydale]

Hi Charlie. I have a friend who has made the bridge on his layout in a way that allows him to lift it so that he can access his layout and still have continuous running without having to have return loops.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s great as it’s so difficult to maintain perfect alignment. Regards Charlie.

[@100SteveB]

What a great idea, Charlie! Not only will it save your poor knees and back, but it will add much more interest to the layout. It is always so much better to have a train disappear from view, only to have it reappear elsewhere. Still a tail chaser, but it will give the illusion of the train having actually gone off somewhere else. Of course, if you really wanted to be brave you could think of some way of incorporating a reversing loop, that would add yet another whole new scope of ideas for running sessions! But like I say, your new ideas are going to make a world of difference, practical, plus adding a lot of interest. Good luck with it all, and I hope you find those bits of curved track your looking for.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Steve, and I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. Regards Charlie

[@allanhillery-jones9743]

Sorry to hear about the knee, but the new plan looks great. All the best.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Allan, regards Charlie

[@MrPCC]

Yay! More track planning and scenery videos! I like your idea and admire your persistence despite plenty of track plan changes!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased and I’m keeping you entertained mate, regards Charlie

[@ericrickert3045]

This all makes sense. I will be 62 soon and also am suffering from "old-guy" syndrome. Nicely explained and well thought out!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Eric I’m so pleased to have you on board, old-age waits for none of us

[@LeeGlin]

Good luck with your new layout, going to be a lot of work and video's, which of course I'm looking forward to. I think it will be a lot better and it's given my ideas for mine 🙂🙂. Keep up the good work mate 👍👍👍

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thank you very much Lee.

[@2H80vids]

An ambitious, but logical, plan Charlie. Taking on a helix is a big move, 𝒕𝒘𝒐 is a huge move but, getting them professionally constructed should take a lot of hair-tearing out of the picture. Your careful planning looks like very little of what's already built will be wasted; you've made the decision just in time. Assuming everything goes to plan, you're going to gain a good bit of scenic area to play with and you've loads of options as to how to use the two end sections. I look forward to watching future developments. Good Luck !! 👌😁👍

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks mate, it’s great to have you on the side, regards Charlie

[@paredding]

Two great videos this an last week and before you corrected the title Track Planing, I thought you had come up with another track cleaning solution :-) Being an engineer, I have never understood those track rubbers. I did buy that Dapol track cleaner when it came out and sense in constant use it will keep the dirt down using the correct fluid. In conclusion, that Anyrail s/w is very good; I used it for mine and just broke it up into 3x sections each of 52 components. The fact it then generates a parts BOM is great so you then know easily what you have to buy. Good stuff

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the channel, good luck and stay safe, regards Charlie

[@StickyBit7777]

Very excited to watch these changes take shape! It looks like you're going to have a really nice layout.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Chuck, regards Charlie

[@davidmathie8360]

Being an old ex rugby player and climber I feel your frustration . We had a helix on our old club layout but found older Locos and formations of anything longer than 5 coaches really struggled .Also track cleaning was a pain. A friend of mine came up with a clever system where rather than a hinged board he had a small 3ft section which wheeled out .It is DCC and electric connections are maintained with flexible cables .He has never had a problem.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks David and interesting advice too

[@sparqqling]

Smart choice Charlie! Getting into your track should be as easy as getting into your shirt, no bending required.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A good point Frank, well said mate

[@jimsmoter4510]

Looking forward to watching the changes to the layout take shape Charlie . It’s going to be fun fallowing it along .

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m sure that it will be a bumpy ride Jim

[@thescrapline4905]

Interesting changes, that plan is going to throw up some great running shots, nice long straight sections. Look forward to seeing that come together. Like that idea of the centre line in the fiddle yard that will enable trains to access either loop. Food for thought that!.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting mate.

[@bill1047]

AnyRail is great. Once you get the hang of doing flexitrack (its easy once you read the instructions!) you can create anything really quickly.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Yes, I agree Bill. But it does take a couple of hours to get the hang of it. Regards Charlie

[@SW2Paul]

Hi Charlie I use anyrail (paid for) on my mac through a virtual windows OSI find it extremely easy to use and there are so many ways it can be used I found that by playing around with a small area you can learn all the additional "tricks"

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Yes it really is a great piece of software Paul, regards Charlie

[@markpini3945]

Great video Charlie as always judging by the comments you have made us all think about future building a layout luckily I’m still at the planning stage I’ve been watching and learning from you and other KZbinrs. Well done and all the best.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you find it interesting Mark, regards Charlie

[@mocom53]

WoW !! Lots of exciting things to look forward to in up coming videos. As for your knee situation... take care. But there again that’s part an parcel of getting old... like me. Thanks for everything.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it Mo but don't get old! Stay safe. Regards Charlie

[@johne5854]

Interesting new project. You are lucky to have such a large room to play with.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks John.

[@MyTutorGuy]

Drat. My initial Anyrail design 10 years ago was a helix-to-helix configuration. I eventually decided that the 4’ x4’ space required for each helix was consuming too much of the room, so the procrastination ended with me creating a regular layout similar to your current design. Made the baseboards nice and high, but I still regularly come up too early and gash my back on the framework, sending the odd scenic element flying , and filling the air with profanity. Needed your video 10 years ago Charlie. I must learn to procrastinate more...about 10 years more...

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Great comment Peter, stay safe, regards Charlie

[@NothusDeusVagus]

Thankyou for your Video. A most apppropriate and timely subject of access. Your points were heeded and will be incorporated into any of my future layout plans. I intend to have my representation placed at a high elevation, shoulder height (approx) in relation to myself which will or should enable easier access to the underside for wiring and if needed passing under by use of a wheeled deskchair. I could achieve this by incorporating higher benchwork and a raised centre floor... I might actually make a video of this project afterall.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

It sounds like an interesting plan, good luck, regards Charlie

[@alangray9675]

Interesting video. I think I will do the same next time. Lots of work to come, Charlie. Good luck.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Alan

[@trelly4472]

Hi Charlie, this new track plan you have, sounds great and a real advancement for Chadwick Railways. Can’t wait to see some progress as and when. Good luck

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Paul it’s great to have you on board. Regards Charlie

[@terryblackman6217]

I am so looking forward to seeing your progress. As a Newby I have learned a great deal from your videos and I thank you for that. Knees. I also am a sufferer, I think its years of grovelling to the woman I love. Just don't tell the wife. LOL. Good luck.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Terry. Having knees, is a pretty poor design issue. Regards Charlie

[@dancw1988]

i would like to see more on the block detection and pc side of things

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Daniel,It’s on the list.

[@nigelcarter9503]

Charlie, it happens to us all, wonky knees. I like the idea of installing the auto weel cleaner. It all sounds good but, utilise your old material. Look forward to seeing the progress.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Nigel, it’s great to have you on board

[@canalsidingsmodelrailway3411]

I sympathise Charlie. I had a crawl under a few years ago and realised that it was going to be a problem later in life. I now have my layout at a height of 54 inches and being only 65 inches tall it is very easy to duck under even if I do sometimes misjudge it and hit my head! OUCH! The section does also lift right out if required but it is rarely needed. My only negative observation of your new plan is the gradient of the Helix. With 3rd/4th radius it will be about 1 in 50 which with 8 coach trains will be a tall order for steam locos. If as I suspect your collection is all two bogie all wheel drive diesels then you will probably be fine. Good luck, it is looking like a mammoth project. .....................John

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Yes you’re right John, I am a diesel kind of bloke. Regards Charlie

[@stefanekstrom1137]

Smart decision Charlie. Looking forward seeing how the new trackplan proceeds. //Stefan

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Stefan I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it

[@ChrisMarshallUS]

Wow, that is a significant change to the layout, looking forward to seeing your progress with the changes.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Chris, wish me luck, regards Charlie

[@4dads823]

Charlie, you have adapted the layout well to your condition and the room, with due regard to what you already have. As someone who has just had to have his hip repaired, with not being allowed to bend past 90 degrees (e.g. crawl, sit in a low chair) I went the opposite way with the dual deck layout and raised it to where I can fit under at a stoop. Still can't get under at the moment because of the loading up of the crutch but hopefully soon.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Getting old is clearly a dreadful thing, stay safe mate, regards Charlie