Diagrams attached show how we tested 2 new crossover modules built for the C&O Modelers Meet at Hawks Nest Lodge March 14 - 15, 2002. I hope by using this web page you will get a better view of the layout plans ... those that are interested. I realize it is not for everyone and most NTRAK members want to maximize the number of trains running to attract spectators. The use of operations is just those kids that like game playing (kids up to 90+ years old) and also to attract and hold memberships of those that crave additional railroading challenges. 

Bernie, Mitch, Monroe and I were fortunate to immerse ourselves in the Hawks Nest Lodge environment during the C&O Modelers Week End. With 55' of modules including modules by Chris Wiley and Mike Luger from Lynchburg we set up a layout that gave us a single track 110' run out and back. 

The track schematic shows how the you can take 3 tracks and by using end loops can extend 65' of modules to a 130' run. Also with the Crossover Modules the canter track is used for sidings on both sides of the loop. Do not compare this with the final layout plan because Sewell's father (John Plant) was not able to attend and the layout was changed in several places. This view is confusing in some ways but clearly shows how trains progress through the modules running in both directions.

Our sidings could each hold a 50 car train. When added to any dispatched layout be it oNeTRAK, 2T, or 3T this adds game playing with a single track run and the opposing trains need to dodge through traffic using the sidings both through and stub end. With 3 or 4 passing sidings we did not use a dispatcher or radios. A dispatcher could have been used and also either radios, telephones or signals.  For the fist time DCC was used for simplicity but if you wanted to set up a CTC board and blocks then analog would ramp up the brain activities.

It does take some planning ahead and the addition of crossovers just as waybills take planning. We wanted to add the waybills but I do not think we could have stood any more excitement at Hawks Nest. If you have the opportunity, get a gorge side room and go to sleep if you can listening to the trains below Hawks Nest Lodge. Any comments can be sent to me at NTRAK@EROLS.COM.