Forum,
I’m starting a ho layout using computer cad. Need some fundamental dimensions, PLEASE.
cork roadbed, thickness and witdh.
radius: mainline and yards
spacing: beteen rails on mainline and yards.
switches: length for mainline and yards.
Thanks,
MikeF
Your first step should be to determine the size of the room…
this will dictate the rest…unless you want to just design a layout that will remain on the tube?
In this case use the following:
cork roadbed width: 1.25 inches
Thickness : varies… start with 1/4 inch
radius : depends on the size of your largest locomotives, I use 30 inches as a min but 36 is best switching and yards can have tighter radii but avoid anything sharper than 22 inches.
spacing : depends on locomotive and car overhang, use 2.0 inches from rail to rail for an estimate
switches: use no. 8s for mainline high speed, no. 6 and no.4s for switching and yards, all manufactures have different size switches so decide based on cost/performance which you will select, down load dimensions from the manufacture on line… hope this helps.
Mike,
You may have better luck asking this question under the Model Railroader magazine forum. That magazine caters to HO and other indoor scales. While many here also have experience in HO, you’ll get far more detailed answers over there, and the answers can better help others in the same spot as you further down the road.
Later,
K
Yes,
This is very helpful. I need the dimensions asa place to start. I can wiggle some space to fit my needs, but I didn’t want to force fit my desires with a shoe horn.
Thanks,
MikeF
[#welcome]
Mid West HO cork roadbed is just under 2" wide and 3/16" thick. Curve radius is going to depend on how much room you have and what size equipment you want to run.(many variables there) Longer locos and cars need bigger radius curves. Short 4 axle diesels and 40’-50’ cars can get by on 18" or 22" curves. Bigger is always better though.
Here’s a link to the NMRA standards. You can find your turnout, spacing and clearance specs there. You may want to read through that and then ask any other questions you have.
http://www.nmra.org/standards/consist.html
Good luck!