N-Scale Minimum Radius

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I am continuing to think about my layout, with lots of input on various topics of interest from these forums.

I will be doing an N-scale layout, and I am thinking to use 12" minimum radius curves with #4 turnouts. If I run an SD-7 or SD-9, will this fit around these curves with their triple-axle trucks, or would I be limited to using a GP-7 with 2 axles per truck? I really like the SD series, but if I can’t use them, that would be a definite disappointment.

Thanks for your help.

FT

2

12" should work, but it may look awkward. I wouldn’t go any lower.

3

Dave,

Thanks for the quick reply. I am not overly concerned with how awkward it will look. This layout will be for learning experience, but I would like to start collecting some locos and rolling stock that I will eventually be able to use on a bigger, better layout. Someday. At this point, the main question is will the SD go through the curves and turnouts without derailing itself or the car behind it?

FT

4

I went with an 11" minimum radius on my layout just so I could squeeze a little more track in. I run SD’s, E8’s, and 85’ passenger cars (and a ton of other stuff). The longer equipment looks little goofy going around these curves but they all run flawlessly.

5

Thanks for the replies. As a follow-up question, what is about the largest loco I could reasonbly fit around 12" curves and #4 turnouts without trouble, in case I want to move from the mid-50’s forward? Obviously, I don’t think I can get an SD90 on there, but how about a Dash 8 or a Tunnel Motor? I have lots of ideas, but I may have to stick with my first layout for some time, and might not to always want to run just the mid-50’s stuff.

Thanks for your thoughts and ideas.

FT

6

Actually, Kato SD90s can make it around a 9 3/4" radius. Here is a quote from a kato SD90 ad.

“While these models are capable of operating on a 9-3/4” radius curve, it is recommended they be run on curves no smaller than an 11" radius to prevent the appearance of unrealistic overhang."

You shouldn’t have trouble with 12" curves, unless you are running long wheel base steam locos.

7

Thanks for the info. No, I don’t think I will have any steam. I like the looks of some steam, but I am not ambitious enough to want to put decoders into them. Since I am just starting out and have the choice, I will be going with diesel, maybe some FTs, SD-7s, F3s, GP7s and then going forward to who knows what, although some of it will depend on availability when I actually have the $$. But if I get something, I definitely want to be able to run it and not cause problems. I am anticipating that a 12" radius is about as big as I can get away with.

Thanks again for the help.

FT

8

Does anyone know the minimum N scale radius for body-mounted 89’ cars? I just bought some more additions to my autorack train, but the car behind the loco tends to derail when the train is being backed up. I have 18" minimum radius curves on my mainlines.