What is the absolute minimum radius that can handle an n-scale six-axle loco like a dash 9 or SD-70?
thanks…John
I can’t anser your question and I don’t I don’t know why you asked it so please do not take offense at my answer. I mean it to help. A good rule of thumb is always to install the biggest radius track you can so you don’t run into problems in the future. An engine that size in N gauge would look bets on curves bigger than 15" radius in my opinion.
John,
In HO, there are 15", 18", 22" and 24" radius in sectional track. A 6-axle diesel in HO can handle a 22" radius without much problem. Since N is roughly 1/2 HO scale, I’d say then that an 11" radius track should be your absolute minimum. John, as ndbprr stated above, try to go as large as you can. It will both look better and operate smoother.
Tom
on this topic, wut do u think is the longest HO SCALE freight car that i can get on 15" track?
earthqu8kes,
Probably 40’ and under. Even so, it won’t look very pretty doing it…
Tom
No layout yet just some N scale track to mess around with, for now, but I have atlas 11" radius track and an E8 six axle loco and it takes the curves ok but the over hang at both ends looks out of place and if the couplers, rapido… I know… I will change them later, are not hooked good they will come uncoupled. I picked up some 19" radius track and placed the same loco on it and the over hang is minimal and looks much better… just some thoughts…
BTW as a new train nut I would like to thank all of those that answer the questions posted on these and other forums because I have learned a lot just reading them.
A lot of times it is also manufacture specific, For example, B’s SD40 said 18" , C’s SD40 15" curves.