Hi all,
From what I can gather on main line track 15" is the ‘average minimum’. Some go a wee bit tighter while others suggest wider, and we all know wider is better.
But for yard track, where trains will be moving much slower than main line, I am assuming we can go with a much tigher radius…yes maybe no? If yes, then what would you suggest as the smallest radius to use in yard track?
Please assume that the trains (consists and cars) going through some of this yard track will be significantly long.
Thank you in advance. [:)]
What scale?
In HO, 15" would be an absolute minimum, not an average. Most modelers I know use 22-24" as a minimum radius with an average radius being in the 30" range.
Dave H.
Sorry Dave, my mistake…N-scale, and I modified the title to make it easier for people to ‘scan’ the topic.
…and like I said earlier, this is for yard track, not for main line track, or other track where trains would reach a fair speed.
I model in N Scale, and my own personal “standards” for yard tracks is 11" min for yards where longer equipment is used, and 9 3/4" on some industrial sidings where the cars do not exceed 50’ in length. On occaision in the past I have violated this due to space constraints, but over the years I have settled on the above as I feel it is a good balalnce between looks and operations.
The above is based on the assumption that you are speaking about a freight yard. If the yard is for passenger equipment, I would try not to go smaller than the 15" you mentioned earlier. Hope this helps.