Thank you for the tips. I think I have the track I need already. Might need a few pieces here and there. I’ve been collecting since I got my starter set when I was 12. Its the only reason I don’t plan to go flex track as I’m pretty much set with sectional. The only reason I haven’t put the track out yet is I just haven’t had much time with family, school and work commitments.
I’m mostly a roundy, rounder. Not much into operations. I might put a few sidings in for looks but the points add another potential derailment location. I do plan to set each line up with an opposing direction, alternating station circuit, so I can run 4 engines at one time. If I use LGB Manual switch motors I don’t think I will need even need to automate the points. Just set them to always go right. I’ve been having problems with my LGB EPL motors not wanting to throw completely, even after a good cleaning, and it has made me lose confidence in them. TrainLi was supposed to come out with a new switch motor but I haven’t seen them advertised yet.
Also, I model DRGW steam era so the slow speeds and tight curves are not as much a problem as if I were trying to run big diesels.
The cardboard template idea is a good one. I will definitely use this for placing my buildings I haven’t gotten around to building yet.