So, I did a little more work on my layout design. My goal was to maximize space for the layout, while still giving plenty of space for the operators. I did manage to keep the layout all on one level. However, I did have to compromise on a few things - like having the dock located off the main line in the opposite direction of the yard. This still works - but, is not as straight forward at the other layout designs.
The one design element that I really liked is the "loads-in/empties-out" concept of the Dock and Beneficiator (Mine). This allows empty and full cars to be swapped (pushed through the back-drop) without having to manually move them back to a starting point. This will make it easy to setup the next operating session.
Well, I knew this was coming. But, I was hoping it would not be for several years down the road (I was hoping for 5 to 10 years). My wife and I have been talking about moving. Needless to say, the thought of moving has put a total stop to any RR projects. It is a basic lack of motivations. You know - it will all end with a move - so the desire to start any project is squashed by the thought of having to move anything that is done. And, the design effort comes to a screeching stop as well. No sense continuing with a layout design for a space that will no longer be available. So, any RR efforts have all but died. I still try to stay involved with RRing in some fashion. But, it is more of the reading variety (and research). I am hopeful I can do some small efforts on a T-Trak module. But, I will not be holding my breath.
I will try to keep this site going, and keep it up-to-date. But, I do not know what will happen in the future.
God Bless......
(added September 12, 2007)