Minimal mine track

Question

I want to create a mine scene on a 32x32 baseplate. I want to run a train track across the front, and then about 12 studs into the mine. Then, I want to build a couple simple mining carts on the tracks. I'm not very familiar with the tracks pieces. Can someone help me plan the pieces I'll need for this?

Answer 1

I think you want to consider using the 4-stud-wide "rollercoaster" tracks, part numbers 25059, 25061 and 26022.

Here's how those to parts look like in set 60228:

The straight track are 8 or 16 studs long, and the 90° curved track has a radius of 12 studs (counted from the track centerline). These dimensions allow for a few track pieces to be placed in a 32x32 baseplate comfortably.You can fit a "L" made of one 90° curved track and two lengths of straight tracks (16 studs long each) into a 32x32 baseplate, leaving a margin of 2 studs.

This quick-and-dirty LeoCAD diagram should help convey the idea:

Also note that part 85976 "Train, Track Plastic, Narrow, Curve" does exist, and is also 4 studs wide. However, there is no (official) corresponding flat straight part, and the curve radius is wider (24 studs). You can fit two such track parts in a 32x32 baseplate, but beware of the half-a-stud-long connectors at the end of each track piece, which might overhang:

For the carts I guess you'll want to use parts 50254 "Train Wheel Small" and 4600 "Modified 2x2 Plate with Wheels Holder" or the roller coaster car assembly made up of 26061 "Roller Coaster Car Base" and 24869 "Roller Coaster Wheels".

The later is the technique used in set 60188 "Mining experts site", altough the result doesn't look "minecarty" enough to me since the wheels themselves are obscured from view:

Answer 2

There have already been a few older sets containing pre-made mine carts or similar constructions with tracks besides the currently used style mentioned by IvanSanchez, take a look at how they were implemented:

1. Indiana Jones and The Temple of Doom (7199):

2. The Dynamic Duo Funhouse Escape (6857):

3. Amusement Park Roller Coaster (41130):

4. Silver Mine Shootout (79110):

5. The Mine (4204), using different parts:

6. Dwarves' Mine (7036):

7. The Mine (21118), not rolling:

8. The Precious Crystal Mine (41177), also not rolling:

9. The Creeper Mine (21155), another style of non-rolling implementation with decorative "wheels":

10. Bandit's Secret Hide-Out (6761), rather a cannon on tracks than a minecart, but could be adapted:

---

The relevant parts from the Silver Mine set, added based on the request for clarification: