This may be a basic question to the experienced model railroader, however, I always wondered how, as an operator, an easy way to determine the route to put a train back in the yard and how do I know which train to pull out without having an accident. I would assume the yard is hidden from view so this must be done via train chart. I would appreciate any comments.Javascript:insertsmilie('')
Smile

Generally if you can't see the yard you would have a plann layout of the fiddleyard and track numbers as well as train configuration. If you are running digital you would have each of the turnouts numbered as well. When you build the consist you should have a work order to determine where the train would be located.
Stephen(USA)

I would recommend this lecture :
"The model railroader's guide to Freight Yards" by Andy Sperando, Kalmach Books ( http://store.yahoo.net/kalmbachcatalog/12248.html ).
There are descriptions of how an actual yard is operated. Also full of advices how to build your model yard.
Pierre.

Hi guys, seems to be many terminologies regarding Staging Yards, Shadow stations, marshelling yards, etc and their various operations. I came across this link which describes the types of staging yards very well. Some of you may be interested.

http://www.vetmed.auburn...LDSIGprimer/Staging.html

Also, I plan to install a small colour micro camera in my hidden staging yard so that I can see which train is in which position. This will then show on a small TV monitor.