An ongoing blog post with track plans that I will add to over time. I'll try to get the track plans for layouts I've actually built here as well as those I like or plan to build at some point. I'll make a separate post with HO scale track plans eventually as well. These were all done using AnyRail 5 running in CrossOver on my iMac.
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NEW! I've added links to the AnyRail files if you want to download the track plans and edit them in AnyRail. You should be able to right-click to download and save the files to your local computer.
A variation on the Carolina Central
Here is another variation on the Carolina Central which is shown later in the post. This version is still 32” wide, but is a little shorter at 72” instead of 80”. The main change was to move the interchange track from the front to the right side. This allowed me to increase the minimum radius to 12.4” from 11”. That is enough to run modern passenger trains and even big steam like the Kato Big Boy. While those will run on 11” radius curves, any track imperfections are much more likely to cause derailments.
Here is a quick sketch of how this might look built out.
Here is the AnyRail File: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/CarolinaCentral3.any
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".9
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".5
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".4
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".2
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".5
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".5
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".5
20120, N Kato Unitrack 20120. Curve radius 12.4", angle 45º5
20121, N Kato Unitrack 20121. Curve radius 12.4", angle 15º10
20130, N Kato Unitrack 20130. Curve radius 13.7", angle 30º4
20150, N Kato Unitrack 20150. Curve radius 28.27", angle 15º1
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)6
20203, N Kato Unitrack 20203. Right turnout 7.32". (remote)4
20452, N Kato Unitrack 20452. Straight 7.32". (bridge) (gray)1
20520, N Kato Unitrack 20520. Curve radius 12.4", angle 45º (viaduct)1
Two More N Scale Plans
This first one is a Kato Unitrack version of a plan from Mike's Small Track Plans site here: http://www.cke1st.com/m_train2.htm
This is Plan Name: 2x40001 from his site, the first one.
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
6010, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6010. Straight feeder 10".1
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".5
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".2
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".3
20030, N Kato Unitrack 20030. Straight 2.52".1
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".1
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".5
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".1
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".2
20100, N Kato Unitrack 20100. Curve radius 9.8", angle 45º5
20101, N Kato Unitrack 20101. Curve radius 9.8", angle 15º7
20110, N Kato Unitrack 20110. Curve radius 11.1", angle 45º8
20121, N Kato Unitrack 20121. Curve radius 12.4", angle 15º1
20160, N Kato Unitrack 20160. Curve radius 18.94", angle 15º1
20170, N Kato Unitrack 20170. Curve radius 8.5", angle 45º3
20171, N Kato Unitrack 20171. Curve radius 8.5", angle 15º2
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)4
20222, N Kato Unitrack 20222. Wye turnout 4.96". (remote)1
20231, N Kato Unitrack 20231. Right crossover 9.76".1
20452, N Kato Unitrack 20452. Straight 7.32". (bridge) (gray)2
This next plan is a hack job of Byron Henderson's Redwing Division using Kato Unitrack.
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".11
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".3
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".1
20030, N Kato Unitrack 20030. Straight 2.52".2
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".4
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".8
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".5
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".4
20100, N Kato Unitrack 20100. Curve radius 9.8", angle 45º9
20101, N Kato Unitrack 20101. Curve radius 9.8", angle 15º4
20110, N Kato Unitrack 20110. Curve radius 11.1", angle 45º4
20111, N Kato Unitrack 20111. Curve radius 11.1", angle 15º2
20121, N Kato Unitrack 20121. Curve radius 12.4", angle 15º1
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)4
20203, N Kato Unitrack 20203. Right turnout 7.32". (remote)7
20222, N Kato Unitrack 20222. Wye turnout 4.96". (remote)1
Compact O Scale Switching Layouts
I'm interested in building a compact O-scale switching layout with Atlas 3-Rail track because switching with O scale equipment is, I think, more enjoyable because of the heft and size of the equipment. I would use true-scale O scale equipment, but designed for 3-Rail to allow for tighter radius curves and turnouts. I've recently seen some incredibly realistic compact O scale layouts. As long as you can get past the 3 rails, which can look really nice with Atlas or similar track that is weathered, you can have a compact switching layout in O scale.
This is the latest version I'm considering. Note that I wouldn't use all the little pieces everywhere for the final build, but rather cut them from larger sections to reduce the number of rail joints. This version is 22"x96" for the main section and removable section that won't normally be used. The main section would be just under 24" wide with a 1" fascia board and backdrop board.
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
6015, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6015. Straight 1 1/4".12
6050, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6050. Straight 10".20
6051, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6051. Straight 4 1/2".8
6052, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6052. Straight 1 3/4".11
6066, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6066. Curve radius 18" (O-36), angle 30º12
6070, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6070. Left turnout 10". O-544
6071, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6071 Right turnout 10". O-542
6072, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6072. Left turnout 14 1/2". O-721
6073, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6073 Right turnout 14 1/2". O-721
6075, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6075. Left turnout 10". O-361
6082, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6082. Crossing 22.5º1
Objects
6040, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6040. Buffer/Bumper 1 31/32".3
Here was my first idea in 2x8 feet:
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
6015, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6015. Straight 1 1/4".3
6050, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6050. Straight 10".7
6051, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6051. Straight 4 1/2".3
6052, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6052. Straight 1 3/4".8
6053, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6053. Straight 5 1/2".7
6066, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6066. Curve radius 18" (O-36), angle 30º4
6070, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6070. Left turnout 10". O-543
6071, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6071 Right turnout 10". O-542
6082, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6082. Crossing 22.5º1
Objects
6040, 0 Atlas 3-Rail Nickel Silver Track 6040. Buffer/Bumper 1 31/32".4
Here is a 2x7 foot variant I might try to do instead:
This alternate version is probably better as the right portion of the layout can be operated as a 3-2-2 inglenook shunting puzzle with 40' rolling stock.
Here are alternate ideas, but larger, allowing for staging on the backside.
AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/3RailO_SwitchingLayout_3-3x9.any
Frank's HO Scale Door Layout
This plan was submitted by subscriber Frank Guardabascio, and is a compact HO scale layout that will fit on a 36" x 80" hollow core door with some strips of wood added to the perimeter to slightly expand the base.
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
44501, H0 Bachmann E-Z Track, Curve radius 18", angle 30º2
44505, H0 Bachmann E-Z Track, Curve radius 15", angle 30º12
44510, H0 Bachmann E-Z Track, Straight rerailer, Straight feeder 9".1
44511, H0 Bachmann E-Z Track, Straight 9".15
44514, H0 Bachmann E-Z Track, Straight 4 1/2".1
44541S, H0 Bachmann E-Z Track, Straight 2".2
44561, H0 Bachmann E-Z Track, Left turnout 9". radius 18" (remote)1
44562, H0 Bachmann E-Z Track, Right turnout 9". radius 18" (remote)3
44591, H0 Bachmann E-Z Track, Buffer/Bumper 2 3/4".2
44592-1, H0 Bachmann E-Z Track, Straight 3/4".1
44592-3, H0 Bachmann E-Z Track, Straight 1 1/4".1
44592-5, H0 Bachmann E-Z Track, Straight 2".1
2x4 Foot N Scale Maine Central
This is an N Scale Kato Unitrack version of the layout design that originally appeared in Model Railroader and was created by Paul Boehlert. Here is the Model Railroader link: https://www.trains.com/mrr/how-to/track-plan-database/ho-scale-maine-central-rr/
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".6
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".1
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".1
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".4
20045, N Kato Unitrack 20045. Straight transition Kato/Fleischmann 2.44".1
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".6
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".4
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".4
20100, N Kato Unitrack 20100. Curve radius 9.8", angle 45º1
20101, N Kato Unitrack 20101. Curve radius 9.8", angle 15º3
20170, N Kato Unitrack 20170. Curve radius 8.5", angle 45º8
20171, N Kato Unitrack 20171. Curve radius 8.5", angle 15º6
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)2
20203, N Kato Unitrack 20203. Right turnout 7.32". (remote)6
20222, N Kato Unitrack 20222. Wye turnout 4.96". (remote)1
Third Street Industrial District
This is an N Scale Kato Unitrack version of the layout design by Bill Baumann in the November 1985 edition of Model Railroader. In this plan, the track descends and crosses below the mainline at the bottom left. The design had the track embedded in a street all along that lower, descending route. This is a track-heavy plan that would also be dense with structures. At some point, I'll try to sketch out structures, roads, etc, on the plan.
I can't currently find the anyrail file...I'll post it if I find it.
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".16
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".6
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".1
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".5
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".12
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".4 (part of track assortment pack)
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".2 (part of track assortment pack)
20101, N Kato Unitrack 20101. Curve radius 9.8", angle 15º1
20110, N Kato Unitrack 20110. Curve radius 11.1", angle 45º1
20111, N Kato Unitrack 20111. Curve radius 11.1", angle 15º3
20121, N Kato Unitrack 20121. Curve radius 12.4", angle 15º1
20130, N Kato Unitrack 20130. Curve radius 13.7", angle 30º1
20150, N Kato Unitrack 20150. Curve radius 28.27", angle 15º8
20160, N Kato Unitrack 20160. Curve radius 18.94", angle 15º1
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)8
20203, N Kato Unitrack 20203. Right turnout 7.32". (remote)6
20231, N Kato Unitrack 20231. Right crossover 9.76".1
20300, N Kato Unitrack 20300. Crossing 7.32". 15º (left)1
Exciting 2x4 Foot Layout with Lots of Action!
This is a plan for a new project layout that I am starting. I have each individual level shown below the overview image, and then the track list after that. This layout features track on three levels, with four independent loops of track for lots of action. The middle level is an industrial switching area, while other loops are just for train watching.
Top level:
Middle Level:
Bottom Level:
Track listing:
Note that while I have amazon affiliate links for most products, often you can find them at hobby retailers for cheaper. I like fiferhobby.com and modeltrainstuff.com but check other stores as well. Note that as an Amazon affiliate, I receive a commission on any sales make through those links.
Number of pieces, track item, Amazon link
15 Kato Unitrack 20000 straight 9.76" (9 3/4") https://amzn.to/3iBLMb0
5 Kato Unitrack 20020 straight 4.88" (4 7/8") https://amzn.to/3ZrB4EJ
2 Kato Unitrack 20030 straight 2.52" (2 1/2") https://amzn.to/3kemj7M
7 Kato Unitrack 20040 straight 2.44" (2 7/16") https://amzn.to/3vXqZBA
4 Kato Unitrack 20048 bumper 1.99" https://amzn.to/3ZAas4c
4 Kato Unitrack 20070 straight 1.79" (in track assortment) https://amzn.to/3CKuuPX
1 Kato Unitrack 20071 straight 1.14" (in track assortment) https://amzn.to/3CKuuPX
12 Kato Unitrack 20100 curve radius 9.8" (9 3/4") angle 45° https://amzn.to/3GGhXho
4 Kato Unitrack 20101 curve radius 9.8" angle 15° https://amzn.to/3kbTkll
8 Kato Unitrack 20110 curve radius 11" angle 45° https://amzn.to/3CLCqQS
5 Kato Unitrack 20170 curve radius 8.5" angle 45° https://amzn.to/3vXG46a
2 Kato Unitrack 20171 curve radius 8.5" angle 15° https://amzn.to/3ILzwiW
8 Kato Unitrack 20176 curve radius 4.61" (4 5/8") angle 45° https://shop.fiferhobby.com/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=22591
4 Kato Unitrack 20203 Right hand turnout 7.32" https://amzn.to/3H0BwT7
1 Kato Unitrack 20222 Wye turnout 4.96" https://shop.fiferhobby.com/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=16912
16 Kato Terminal Rail Joiners. https://shop.fiferhobby.com/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=12863
18" x 34" N Scale Industrial Area Layout
This is another layout I plan to build this year. This layout could fit on top of a dresser or easily fit on a desk. While small, the layout offers a lot of visual interest with the raised town area and multiple industries to switch along with an easily accessible interchange track on the bottom right of the layout plan. This layout would likely have four car spots to switch, though you could have another car spot on the main like at the top of the plan if you ignore the portion of the loop under the town during switching operations and use that as a car spot for the background industry.
Here is the plan without the structure and road placements and such:
A Tiny 12" x 18" Diorama Layout
This is a simple loop of track for a trolley or tram, but features an winding road climbing a hill with a dense packing of structures. I plan to have a dense tree covering as well with all the structures lighted. It would make for a nice little display layout.
Here is just the track diagram
2x4 Layout with Lots of Switching
Here is a 2x4 foot layout that offers both continuous running and lots of switching. There is no run around track, but all the turnouts are trailing point turnouts when operating the layout counter clockwise. The operational idea is that the track on the bottom left is an interchange track where rolling stock can come on and
off the layout. Cars are picked up there, then switched at the various industries. The large structure on the bottom left with the track running through it could have another loading door on the "mainline" track, or the track inside the structure could be car spot if no continuous running is desired during an operating session. The inner three tracks on the left is also set up as a 5-3-3 inglenook design, so one could simply switch that section of track as an inglenook game, possibly while another train is orbiting on the main loop. The long switching lead for those three track spurs allows for one locomotive to switch those industries while another operates on the "mainline".
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)\
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".8
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".5
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".3
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".2
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".5
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".2
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".2
20100, N Kato Unitrack 20100. Curve radius 9.8", angle 45º5
20110, N Kato Unitrack 20110. Curve radius 11.1", angle 45º6
20111, N Kato Unitrack 20111. Curve radius 11.1", angle 15º3
20170, N Kato Unitrack 20170. Curve radius 8.5", angle 45º1
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)2
20203, N Kato Unitrack 20203. Right turnout 7.32". (remote)4
1' x 6' N Scale Switching Layout
This is a small N scale switching layout that is a slightly modified version of a layout designed by Rob Chant. The main changes were just to have the layout design work with Kato Unitrack. The layout can be operated with an extension to allow for trains to move onto and off the layout, or just switched without the extension.
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/1x6NscaleSwitchingLayout.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".14
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".1
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".3
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".3
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".6
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".1
20121, N Kato Unitrack 20121. Curve radius 12.4", angle 15º1
20150, N Kato Unitrack 20150. Curve radius 28.27", angle 15º1
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)2
20203, N Kato Unitrack 20203. Right turnout 7.32". (remote)4
The Executive Inglenook
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/nscaleinglenook.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
17" x 30" Desktop Micro
Here are the track plan and track list for the 17" x 30" N scale desktop micro layout I built. You can read more on that layout here: https://www.steves-trains.com/post/desktop-micro-layout-17-x-30
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/17x30track.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".2
20030, N Kato Unitrack 20030. Straight 2.52".3
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".1
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".1
20121, N Kato Unitrack 20121. Curve radius 12.4", angle 15º2
20172, N Kato Unitrack 20172. Curve radius 7.2", angle 45º (Compact)7
20174, N Kato Unitrack 20174. Curve radius 5.91", angle 45º (Compact)2
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)1
20240, N Kato Unitrack 20240. Left turnout 4.88". (remote) (Compact)1
24818, N Kato Unijoiner 24818 5
2' x 3' N Scale Mini Layout
Here are the track plan and track list for the 2' x 3' N scale desktop micro layout I built. You can read more on that layout here: https://www.steves-trains.com/post/2-x-3-n-scale-mini-layout
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/2x3track.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".3
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".1
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".1
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".3
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".8
20100, N Kato Unitrack 20100. Curve radius 9.8", angle 45º5
20101, N Kato Unitrack 20101. Curve radius 9.8", angle 15º2
20110, N Kato Unitrack 20110. Curve radius 11.1", angle 45º1
20140, N Kato Unitrack 20140. Curve radius 15", angle 30º1
20170, N Kato Unitrack 20170. Curve radius 8.5", angle 45º5
20171, N Kato Unitrack 20171. Curve radius 8.5", angle 15º4
20203, N Kato Unitrack 20203. Right turnout 7.32". (remote)3
20301, N Kato Unitrack 20301. Crossing 7.32". 15º (right)1
20505, N Kato Unitrack 20505. Curve radius 9.8", angle 45º (viaduct)2
24818, N Kato Unijoiner 24818 8
Carolina Central
I've never built this layout, but have always liked it. This layout appeared in Model Railroader, and this is a Kato Unitrack version for a 32" x 80" hollow-core door. This version has an 11" minimum radius, but if you went to a wider 36" door you should be able to increase that to a 12.4" minimum radius.
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/CarolinaCentral.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".15
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".3
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".2
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".1
20045, N Kato Unitrack 20045. Straight transition Kato/Fleischmann 2.44".1
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".4
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".3
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".2
20110, N Kato Unitrack 20110. Curve radius 11.1", angle 45º4
20111, N Kato Unitrack 20111. Curve radius 11.1", angle 15º7
20121, N Kato Unitrack 20121. Curve radius 12.4", angle 15º11
20140, N Kato Unitrack 20140. Curve radius 15", angle 30º1
20160, N Kato Unitrack 20160. Curve radius 18.94", angle 15º2
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)4
20203, N Kato Unitrack 20203. Right turnout 7.32". (remote)4
20452, N Kato Unitrack 20452. Straight 7.32". (bridge) (gray)1
20520, N Kato Unitrack 20520. Curve radius 12.4", angle 45º (viaduct)1
24818, N Kato Unijoiner 24818 15
3' x 5' Fun Pretzel Layout
This is a take on this awesome little layout I saw on Facebook:
This version is quite a bit larger, at about 3'x5', and has an 11" minimum radius on the inner folded dogbone, and a 13.7" minimum radius on the outer loop. The double cross over allows the two loops to be run as one circuit, or two trains to be run at the same time. There are no operations involved here, this is just a layout to watch trains run on, though it would be possible to add a few industries in various places if so desired. This is a layout I may build soon. Track on the left and right side of the layout behind the green lines would be inside of tunnels, though I would have the sides of the layout open for easy access to the track.
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".4
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".2
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".1
20030, N Kato Unitrack 20030. Straight 2.52".4
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".2
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".1
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".2
20110, N Kato Unitrack 20110. Curve radius 11.1", angle 45º12
20111, N Kato Unitrack 20111. Curve radius 11.1", angle 15º6
20120, N Kato Unitrack 20120. Curve radius 12.4", angle 45º4
20121, N Kato Unitrack 20121. Curve radius 12.4", angle 15º3
20130, N Kato Unitrack 20130. Curve radius 13.7", angle 30º3
20132, N Kato Unitrack 20132. Curve radius 13.7", angle 45º7
20140, N Kato Unitrack 20140. Curve radius 15", angle 30º1
20150, N Kato Unitrack 20150. Curve radius 28.27", angle 15º1
20160, N Kato Unitrack 20160. Curve radius 18.94", angle 15º1
20210, N Kato Unitrack 20210. Double crossover 12.2". 15º1
20434, N Kato Unitrack 20434. Straight 9.76". (bridge) (black)1
20452, N Kato Unitrack 20452. Straight 7.32". (bridge) (gray)3
20462, N Kato Unitrack 20462. Straight 4.88". (bridge) (gray)1
24818, N Kato Unijoiner 24818 10
Here is a modified version of the same layout with some general scenery ideas. This allows for off-layout staging or a connection to other modules.
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/3x5track.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".5
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".1
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".1
20030, N Kato Unitrack 20030. Straight 2.52".5
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".4
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".4
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".3
20110, N Kato Unitrack 20110. Curve radius 11.1", angle 45º12
20111, N Kato Unitrack 20111. Curve radius 11.1", angle 15º6
20120, N Kato Unitrack 20120. Curve radius 12.4", angle 45º4
20121, N Kato Unitrack 20121. Curve radius 12.4", angle 15º3
20130, N Kato Unitrack 20130. Curve radius 13.7", angle 30º4
20132, N Kato Unitrack 20132. Curve radius 13.7", angle 45º6
20140, N Kato Unitrack 20140. Curve radius 15", angle 30º1
20150, N Kato Unitrack 20150. Curve radius 28.27", angle 15º1
20160, N Kato Unitrack 20160. Curve radius 18.94", angle 15º2
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)2
20210, N Kato Unitrack 20210. Double crossover 12.2". 15º1
20434, N Kato Unitrack 20434. Straight 9.76". (bridge) (black)1
20452, N Kato Unitrack 20452. Straight 7.32". (bridge) (gray)3
20462, N Kato Unitrack 20462. Straight 4.88". (bridge) (gray)1
24818, N Kato Unijoiner 24818 12
Amherst 2005 Layout
This is one of the layout designs on the Kato USA website that apparently was used on a layout shown at the Amherst MRR show in 2005. This layout is 2.5' by 4.5' in size, so nice and compact and allows for running two trains at once with a third held on the passing siding.
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/Amherst2005.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".4
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".4
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".2
20030, N Kato Unitrack 20030. Straight 2.52".2
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".3
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".5
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".2
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".3
20100, N Kato Unitrack 20100. Curve radius 9.8", angle 45º8
20110, N Kato Unitrack 20110. Curve radius 11.1", angle 45º8
20111, N Kato Unitrack 20111. Curve radius 11.1", angle 15º4
20120, N Kato Unitrack 20120. Curve radius 12.4", angle 45º4
20150, N Kato Unitrack 20150. Curve radius 28.27", angle 15º4
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)3
20203, N Kato Unitrack 20203. Right turnout 7.32". (remote)4
20210, N Kato Unitrack 20210. Double crossover 12.2". 15º1
20430, N Kato Unitrack 20430. Straight 9.76". (bridge) (red)1
20437, N Kato Unitrack 20437. Straight 9.76". (bridge) (silver)1
24818, N Kato Unijoiner 24818 20
Modified MRR Salt Lake Route Layout
This is a modified version of the MRR Salt Lake Route Layout. This Model Railroader project railroad is probably one of my top three favorite that they have done. I have adjusted the yard side to have a less wonky track plan, and have edited the track pieces so none of the adjustable track sections are needed. I've also not used any feeder track sections since the wired Unijoiners are generally more reliable (no risk that the plug is pulled out from the bottom of the track). I've also adjusted things so track pieces line up nearly precisely everywhere on the layout. I have a lot of powered Unijoiners shown on the plan, and some of those could probably be removed, but I always prefer more power leads than fewer for added reliability, especially around turnouts. The layout is 9 feet long and 4 feet wide at the widest point. The base can be made from a single sheet of plywood, with a 1x4 foot section removed from one long side and added to the short side to give you the 9-foot length.
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/SaltLakeRouteModified.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".23
20004, N Kato Unitrack 20004. Straight 9.76". (concrete) (double track)2
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".4
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".7
20023, N Kato Unitrack 20023. Straight 4.88". (concrete) (double track)1
20030, N Kato Unitrack 20030. Straight 2.52".3
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".7
20042, N Kato Unitrack 20042. Straight 2.44". (concrete) (double track)1
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".8
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".6
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".2
20101, N Kato Unitrack 20101. Curve radius 9.8", angle 15º2
20121, N Kato Unitrack 20121. Curve radius 12.4", angle 15º5
20140, N Kato Unitrack 20140. Curve radius 15", angle 30º1
20150, N Kato Unitrack 20150. Curve radius 28.27", angle 15º2
20160, N Kato Unitrack 20160. Curve radius 18.94", angle 15º10
20181, N Kato Unitrack 20181. Curve radius 15"+16.3", angle 45º (concrete) (double track) (superelevated)7
20182L, N Kato Unitrack 20182L. Curved transition radius 15"+16.3", angle 22.5º (left) (concrete) (double track)3
20182R, N Kato Unitrack 20182R. Curved transition radius 15"+16.3", angle 22.5º (right) (concrete) (double track)3
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)6
20203, N Kato Unitrack 20203. Right turnout 7.32". (remote)6
20210, N Kato Unitrack 20210. Double crossover 12.2". 15º1
20437, N Kato Unitrack 20437. Straight 9.76". (bridge) (silver)1
24818, N Kato Unijoiner 24818 16
Twice around in 3.5 x 5.5 feet (Revised)
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/3x5doubletracktwicearound.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000: Straight 9.76".8
20001: Straight 9.76". (double plate track)1
20010: Straight 7.32".2
20020: Straight 4.88".4
20040: Straight 2.44".6
20048: Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".4
20070: Straight 1.79".5
20071: Straight 1.14".14
20120: Curve radius 12.4", angle 45º5
20121: Curve radius 12.4", angle 15º2
20130: Curve radius 13.7", angle 30º9
20132: Curve radius 13.7", angle 45º1
20140: Curve radius 15", angle 30º3
20150: Curve radius 28.27", angle 15º1
20160: Curve radius 18.94", angle 15º7
20181: Curve radius 15"+16.3", angle 45º (concrete) (superelevated)2
20182L: Curved transition radius 15"+16.3", angle 22.5º (left) (concrete) 1
20182: Curved transition radius 15"+16.3", angle 22.5º (right) (concrete) 1
20185: Curve radius 17.6"+18.9", angle 45º (concrete) (superelevated)2
20186L: Curved transition radius 17.6"+18.9", angle 22.5º (left) (concrete) 1
20186R: Curved transition radius 17.6"+18.9", angle 22.5º (right) (concrete)1
20202: Left turnout 7.32". (remote)1
20203: Right turnout 7.32". (remote)3
20210: Double crossover 12.2". 15º1
20231: Right crossover 9.76".1
20452: Straight 7.32". (bridge) (gray)1
20457: Straight 7.32". (bridge) (gray)2
20541: Curve radius 15"+16.3", angle 45º (viaduct)2
Here is a version with elevations noted on the diagram
The San Jose Shelf Switcher with Kato Unitrack
One layout I've always been interested in is the San Jose Shelf Switcher by Byron Henderson. It is an 18"x72" layout that you can read more about here: https://www.layoutvision.com/san-jose-shelf-switcher
This design offers the chance to switch multiple industries along with an interchange track and enough space to prevent the layout from being too much of a "puzzle" to operate.
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/SanJoseSwitcherKatoVersion.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".7
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".1
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".3
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".5
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".6
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".2
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".2
20101, N Kato Unitrack 20101. Curve radius 9.8", angle 15º2
20111, N Kato Unitrack 20111. Curve radius 11.1", angle 15º1
20121, N Kato Unitrack 20121. Curve radius 12.4", angle 15º1
20130, N Kato Unitrack 20130. Curve radius 13.7", angle 30º1
20150, N Kato Unitrack 20150. Curve radius 28.27", angle 15º2
20160, N Kato Unitrack 20160. Curve radius 18.94", angle 15º1
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)4
20203, N Kato Unitrack 20203. Right turnout 7.32". (remote)2
Compact Version of San Jose Shelf Switcher Layout
This is a compact version that takes the same ideas of the larger version and squeezes it down to a 1x5 foot size that is more portable and can fit more spaces. This is actually a version of the layout that I may go ahead and build. However, I may need to tweak the design once I try to actually operate it since I may need a little more length in one place or another to help the layout operate better.
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/SanJoseSwitcherKatoVersion_1x5.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
1x5 Foot Version Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".7
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".3
20021, N Kato Unitrack 20021. Road crossing 4.88".1
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".2
20045, N Kato Unitrack 20045. Straight transition Kato/Fleischmann 2.44".1
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".6
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".2
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".4
20101, N Kato Unitrack 20101. Curve radius 9.8", angle 15º2
20111, N Kato Unitrack 20111. Curve radius 11.1", angle 15º1
20202, N Kato Unitrack 20202. Left turnout 7.32". (remote)4
20203, N Kato Unitrack 20203. Right turnout 7.32". (remote)2
2'x3' N Scale Switching Layout
This is an N scale Kato Unitrack version of a layout on Rob Chant's blog site here: http://www.jomrd.com/index.php?page=ShowRecord&ID=197
While Rob had the layout elevation flat, I thought it would be more interesting for the interchange, or off-layout connection track at the top to be maybe an inch or so higher than the rest of the layout, then the middle area to be maybe half an inch higher than the right side. That would perhaps make for some slightly more interesting terrain. While compact, the layout could serve five industries, and provide for a lot of switching. I've used some of the Kato 6" radius turnouts which are very sharp, but 50' and shorter rolling stock and shorter locomotives will negotiate those just fine. If the Kato #4 turnouts were more reliable those would be a better choice. But, doing this layout with Peco track and turnouts would still probably be a better option.
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/24x32switchinglayout.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".2
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".5
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".4
20045, N Kato Unitrack 20045. Straight transition Kato/Fleischmann 2.44".3
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".7
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".2
20071, N Kato Unitrack 20071. Straight 1.14".8
20100, N Kato Unitrack 20100. Curve radius 9.8", angle 45º1
20101, N Kato Unitrack 20101. Curve radius 9.8", angle 15º1
20170, N Kato Unitrack 20170. Curve radius 8.5", angle 45º3
20171, N Kato Unitrack 20171. Curve radius 8.5", angle 15º3
20172, N Kato Unitrack 20172. Curve radius 7.2", angle 45º (Compact)3
20222, N Kato Unitrack 20222. Wye turnout 4.96". (remote)2
20230, N Kato Unitrack 20230. Left crossover 9.76".1
20241, N Kato Unitrack 20241. Right turnout 4.88". (remote) (Compact)4
Wye Not?
This is based on another Rob Chant layout I liked: http://www.jomrd.com/index.php?page=ShowRecord&ID=33
The layout is 12" x 42" and features only Kato Wye turnouts. The lower left two tracks were designed to be a car float in Rob's plans.
Download the AnyRail file: https://stevestrainsfiles.s3.amazonaws.com/WhyNot.any (right click and save the file, you won't be able to open it directly)
Track List (part numbers may not be accurate, but all parts are available)
20000, N Kato Unitrack 20000. Straight 9.76".4
20010, N Kato Unitrack 20010. Straight 7.32".2
20020, N Kato Unitrack 20020. Straight 4.88".2
20030, N Kato Unitrack 20030. Straight 2.52".1
20040, N Kato Unitrack 20040. Straight 2.44".1
20048, N Kato Unitrack 20048. Buffer/Bumper Type C, 1.99".5
20070, N Kato Unitrack 20070. Straight 1.79".2
20101, N Kato Unitrack 20101. Curve radius 9.8", angle 15º1
20222, N Kato Unitrack 20222. Wye turnout 4.96". (remote)7
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