gpraceman wrote: ↑Mon Jan 15, 2024 12:44 pmI recommend storing the timer separate from the track. ... So, that means storing ... all together.
Makes sense. It seems like a good recommendation in general. In our situation, the timer, plus all associated components, etc. are stored "all together" - just not separate from the track. And we had not thought of a circumstance where we'd want to just fiddle with the timer without also getting the track out of storage shortly thereafter.
We currently operate with a MicroWizard Freedom track, in part because of its low storage profile. The recommended MicroWizard plans are a tight fit for all of the track components, so we made a storage crate slightly wider and taller by a couple of inches to ease removal of the track sections, and to also store accessories on top of the track in the crate or add another section of track later.
The OP's case-storage arrangement is layered like a cake; stowing those components in the track crate means just having those layers side by side along the crate, instead of stacked in a case. And crate-storage is in some ways easier because parts locations are obvious and immediately accessible across an 8-foot span, rather than layered. And we needed room for a few other odd-shaped things, such as a light tree, which is not as easy to store in a dedicated timer case...
Besides the track crate, we had two other inexpensive storage options immediately available that fit the Q-series, but seemed less optimal. One was an old American Tourister suitcase that is about 27" x 18" x 8". It required foam customization to prevent the contents from settling when going from the horizontal to the vertical (carrying) position, and it took up extra storage space. Another option was a footlocker from ye-olde Boy-Scout camping days; no settling problems as the carrying position was maintained horizontal, but again it was bulky. It turned out that storing accessories inside the track crate took up no more room and doesn't require keeping up with a separate parts container, but it does require a case with a couple of extra inches height (say, use 1x8s for the sides instead of 1x6s) and stacking the track pieces with thinner spacers than the default 1x2 lumber.
If we add another section of track at some point, we will run out of top space in this crate and may need to with go something like the case you suggest, so let us know how it works out!