This question may have been asked before, but I have been unable to find it in the forums. What is the minimum radius for the Atlas RS-3. It would be pulling no larger that 50’ cars, if that would make a difference. I have thought about getting one via internet auction. Thank you for your assistance with my inquiry.
The RS-3 should be able to negotiate 18" curves, but you´d be much better of with a min. radius of 22 - 24"!
Of course, the standard question: HO or N, they’ve made both.
The HO one was designed to handle 18" radius. Reliable, with a 50 foot car coupled on? Maybe. 22-24" would be better with 50 foot cars. I have no idea about the N scale one, it’s been far too many years since I did any N scale, I gave up just before the good locos from Atlas/Kato came out - another year and perhaps would have stuck with N scale.
–Randy
Run fine on 18" radius, can pull Athearn heavyweights with truck mounted couplers, no problem except looks. Also, takes the 18" Snap switch S curve OK with a 50’ reefer with body mounted. Don’t know how they’d do on 15" in an industrial area or longer cars with body mounted couplers. Have an older Atlas RS-1 has a problem on the same curve. (going to a parallel track) even with 40’ cars, body or truck mounted couplers. That still has the old hook horn. RS-3 has Kadees. Have just gotten the necessary replacements for the RS-1.
Don’t have any 15" to try it on.
Good luck,
My (HO) layout has 18" radius curves, and I can run a pair of C-628s on it. A trio of RS-3s? No problem. [:D]
I wouldn’t use 18 inch radius curves if my life depended upon it (OK, maybe then I would).
But even if 18 inch radius curves couldn’t handle much else, they sure can handle an RS-3.
Go for it.
Rich
18" curves will work but,20-24" would be better if you have the space.
If N Scale 9 3/4" R will work but,use larger if possible.
50’ cars will operate on 18" curves without problems…I’ve done it in the past.