What should the setup be for the NMRA show in October?  My de-facto is point to train-length turn-table.  But that would that be acceptable for 2 full days of running for the public?  Would the crew get tired of turning trains?

What if we could run point to loop?  One of the modules is a junction, could that be used in combination with existing modules and simple additions to make a reversing loop?  The S-scale Workshop had done similar (See track plan at: http://sscale.org/1261/volume-3-no-3-the-s-scale-workshop-north-shore-train-show-2014/) with great success.  Trevor Marshall commented that the new loops enabled them to run more trains and longer trains than before (with their train turn-tables)

So, what could be done with my modules?

Bigelow and Carabassett on the main, going to a loop. The single track my itself would have to be built

Above was my first thought.  The idea is to preserve the Carrabassett river module next to Bigelow and then user the Sandy River themed modules for the loop.  The single like would have to be built.  The S-curve and 90 degrees seemed like too much to build, just for shows.

What if Carrabassett River module was added into the loop?

Second loop attempt where more modules are added into the loop

The above result is a bit better.  The long linear section could be a module of a SR&RL location and I could make a very specific 45 degree curve to fit the remaining space.  But, at some 25′ long this full setup would fill my basement, requiring I set it up long ways to work and test it.  At some point, I want to add the Bigelow Sawmill to the left, that would not physically fit in my space.  So it is out…

And then there were 9!   What does that mean?  Over the weekend, I was at the Midwest Narrow Gauge Show in Greenfield Ohio where many 2-foot enthusiast meet.  The junction module made the trip up and did not make it back….It went on to Michigan with a new owner.  Thus I went from 10 sections to 9.  I fully expect Tom will enjoy it, and just having it may lead to more little Sn2 Free-mo modules….Be on the lookout, there might be one in your home soon (Trevor?)

So why did I get rid of it?  I like having it for the big Sn2 crew setups, but it was never going to be used in my home layout and if it could not be used effectively in a local setup than it was “in the way” and not worth keeping at this time.  Just removing that one module makes more space in my basement for my team to prepare my home layout and the October NMRA setup!  New modules may sprout in my own space!