O Gauge Layout Plans - 5′ x 8′ Plans for Lionel FasTrack
In this the 3rd post of the OGaugeWatch Layout plan series 2 variations of a Lionel FasTrack plan for a 5′ x 8′ space are presented as good examples of how a lot of operating action can be packed into a relatively small space. 5′ x 8′ plans are perfect for a ping pong table or a train platform built by adding a 1′ extension to a 4′ x 8′ piece of plywood.
The Lionel FasTrack 5′ x 8′ Version 1 plan packs a lot of operating action into a small space by incorporating into the design 2 yard tracks, a reverse loop and a passing siding.
Bring this plan to life with the addition of an industry to the upper left section near the sidings, a small town or tunnel in the upper right area and a passenger platform along the main-line or passing siding at the bottom of the plan. A Christmas tree stand will may fit within the reversing loop making this layout a candidate for placement under the Christmas tree.
The Lionel FasTrack 5′ x 8′ Version 2 plan packs a lot of operating action into a smaller space like the 5′ x 8′ Version 1 plan but incorporates an additional storage siding and expands the space between the passing siding and main-line to accommodate larger buildings or operating accessories.
As shown in the 3D depiction of this plan on the right, the addition of a mountain tunnel, a yard tower, a warehouse, station platforms and 2 Lionel operating accessories brings this plan to life. The operating accessories shown in the foreground are Lionel’s Sawmill (Lionel product # 6-24147) on the left and Lionel’s Log Loader (Lionel product # 6-24115) on the right. The PRR switch tower near the mountain tunnel is by MTH (MTH product # 30-9031). The 3 passenger platforms just beyond the operating accessories are MTH Railking Passenger Platforms (MTH product # 30-9006) and the warehouse adjacent to the siding is MTH’s Thomas & Son’s Feed & Supply Warehouse (MTH product # 30-90024).
Two train operation is possible on both of these 5′ x 8′ layouts using Lionel’s Classic Command Control or Legacy systems (using Locomotives equipped for these systems) or by using a less expensive isolated “block” system with a conventional transformer. In both plans the isolated blocks are created using 2 methods. The center rails of the track sections highlighted in RED are cut using a Dremel tool. The track sections highlighted in GREEN are 1.375 inch track sections (FasTrack 12073) with the center jumper under the tracks removed.
For the beginner, the estimated MSRP total for all the track sections required to build these layouts may be a shock. The reality is any O Gauge plan incorporating a number of remote switch tracks into the design will have a hefty price tag. Those on a tight budget can build this plan in stages by eliminating the yard sidings and reverse loop from the initial build then adding them later. An O Gauge model railroad project is one to be enjoyed over time so building a plan in stages is an entirely acceptable approach.
Downloadable track plans:
Related posts:
- O Gauge Layout Plans - 5′ x 9′ Twice Around for Lionel FasTrack
- O Gauge Layout Plans - 5′ x 9′ with Yard
- O Gauge Layout Plans - 5′ x 9′ Double Track Plans for Lionel FasTrack
- O Gauge Layout Plans - Lionel FasTrack Figure 8 for 4′ x 8′
- O Gauge Layout Plans - Twice Around the Tree
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One Response to “O Gauge Layout Plans - 5′ x 8′ Plans for Lionel FasTrack”
Looking to do a layout 8′by8′ double track with yard
Posted by: Tony Mele | Dec 10, 2009 at 10:31 PM