I would like to thank all who replied to my question on roadbed.
My next question would be on radius . I am currently using Atlas 22" radius on
Code 100 and see that there is a 24" radius available on Code 83.
I am limited in my space, so I can only go with a max of 9x5.
Can the locomotives handle the 22" o.k. or should I go with the 24"
I don’t know your layout and the limitations that occur due to buildings, track, and scenery, but I’d go with the 24" radius and use the other radius for sidings. Varity will make the layout more interesting (IMHO). 22" may work fine for what you have now, but perhaps latter you will acquire a new prototype that was just too good a deal to pass up and it won’t look so hot on such a tight radius. If you have the room, you can’t go wrong with the wider turn.
On my layout (prior to the removal for the new one) I had a few friends that brought over some of their prototypes just to run it on my tracks. This may happen to you. If you can keep your possibilities open, by all means do.
Fred, Hauckra is right, 24" curves would be better but you have to decide what fits your needs & space.
The only locomotives that won’t go around 22" curves are usually brass ones.
All the curves on my mainline are 22". The industry sidings will be using 18".
All the locomotives I have & that of my friends will go around 18" curves.
These include AC4400’s, C44-9W’s & SD40-2’s.
Just my [2c]
Gordon
to Haukra: Are you Hawk in P.A., WA? I would like to talk/e-mail with you regarding even larger radii as used on Free-mo modules. Their min. mainline is 48" and branchline is 36". I am building a 45 degree 72"r. module with easements and the full length passenger cars just flow around it! johncolley@att.net Port Townsend, WA