Shelf Layout Update 8-2-2025

I'm still planning to use Matt Forcum's OpsBuddy switchlist spreadsheet to create switchlists for my operating sessions. Details about this wonderful tool can be found by visiting the MFRailroad YouTube Channel. The YouTube video includes a link to access a copy of the spreadsheet. The photos below include details about my setup for the Grocery Warehouse Layout. 

The track schematic pictured below is for crews working the grocery warehouse area. The schematic denotes tracks, turnouts, and location labels to assist the crew in pulling and spotting cars at the local industries.

Grocery Warehouse Layout Schematic for Operations 

No hidden staging for this shelf layout, so I am using the right side (geographic South) section of the layout as a visible staging area. This is for trains approaching the area from Cuba, Missouri. Northbound trains begin here at the beginning of the session. For today’s session, a train has already arrived and is ready to fill out its Track Warrant for permission to move into the grocery warehouse area.

Staged and ready to begin the operating session 

The left side (geographic North) of the layout is also being used as a visible staging area for trains approaching the area from South Owensville Yard. Southbound trains begin here at the beginning of the session. For today’s session, there are no trains approaching from this visible staging area.

No trains starting from the North end of the layout for this session 

I’m using an old Android phone with a Fast Clock App. I am using a 10:1 ratio for operating the layout. The fast clock isn’t really needed, but it adds flavor to the operating session.

I have customized my version of the OpsBuddy spreadsheet to create a switchlist for operating the grocery warehouse layout.  I have also included two Track Warrant Control cards to the switchlist to enhance the operating experience. Since I operate by myself, I use the track warrants to simulate a form of track control.  The TWC forms are also not necessary, but like the fast clock, it adds a railroady flavor to the experience.

Switchlist/TWC form for today's session

My Broadway Limited Paragon 4 locomotive comes equipped with sounds. Various sound files such as radio chatter, engine acceleration/deceleration, air horns, locomotive bell, and other sounds greatly enhance the experience! The crew blasts the horn as it crosses Hwy Y near the grocery warehouse.

The crew has finished dropping off cars at the industrial lead siding and pulled/set out cars at the grocery warehouse. The local makes its way south along the siding to the south crossover tracks.  

The crew has finished its switching duties ahead of schedule, so they will contact the dispatcher and obtain updated track warrants. Once the new track warrant takes effect, the local will head back on the main track to Cuba, Missouri. At this point, the operating session is concluded.

The crew finished well ahead of the Track Warrant expiration at 1:00 PM. The crew will receive a new track warrant and make their way back to Cuba, Missouri at 1:01 PM. 

Utilizing the switchlist, fastclock, and the various locomotive sound files give the operating session a feeling of realism and is fun to boot!! A surprising amount of operating potential even with its small size!