My 6 x 7 ft H0 scale Maerklin C-track interpretation.


I introduced a hidden distribution level - interweaving two reversing loops using sprung turnouts - for reversing (and temporary layover) of a train; the curved turnouts at the gate to the pretzel underworld need motors and are to be remotely controlled - see lower level plan.

Like that trains can either circle into the same direction (by "ignoring" the underground pretzel) or reverse their direction, thereby pretending to depart to and arrive from a distant destination. Because of the underground pretzel, I could not match the original 5 x 7 N-scale dimensions...The pretzel arrangement is "long" enough to allow an EMD F7 A-B-B hauled six-coach California Zephyr or alternatively an EMD F7 A-B-A freight train with nine tin plate box cars plus caboose to turn around. Thanks to the Maerklin "three-rail" technology, the return loops do not cause a short circuit (unlike two-rail systems where "+" and *-" rails would touch each other).

The visible passing sidings on the upper level accommodate the same train lengths as the underground pretzel, i.e. an EMD F7 A-B-B hauled six-coach California Zephyr or alternatively an EMD F7 A-B-A freight train with nine tin plate box cars plus caboose

Assuming that the height distance between the two levels is 8 cm (7.5 cm clearance + 0.5 cm baseboard), the ramps stretching from lower level curved turnout to upper level turnouts have a gradient of 3%, respectively. From an aesthetic point of view that is acceptable and a piece of cake for Maerklin US locos. Lower level curved turnouts are on level ground, while the upper level curved turnouts are the last track segments on the ramp, respectively, i.e. the upper level station tracks are all on level ground. At the beginning of curves, there are wider radius "easement" for better looks of trains moving. No R1 curves used on visible mainline stretches.

Here is the full track plan plus track inventory.

Flip curved pionts to access station from outer track.
Add crossover to outer track on other end of station.
Long station.
Reversing loop.
Lots of shunting.

Back up.