I have a Proto 2000 E8/9 that doesn’t indicate the minimum radius needed. As I build my new layout this info would be helpful.
I have an E6A/B set that works just fine on 18" radius curves and has no problem with #4 turnouts.
Terry
My old layout had 22’ minimum radius and #6 turnouts. The E8/9 that I have ran very well.
My P2K RI E8A can handle a 18" radius.
Nice locos, aren’t they?!
- George
But, some passenger cars now require larger radius.
If you have an option, review the merits of 22" or better.
The Walther New Budd cars require 24"
Well, my sets of PAs require by my best guess a 2.5-3’ radius curve, but I’ve done some custom work to bring them to scale distance between coupled units. (i.e., diaphragms in contact.) Those dummy couplers from E-unit fronts that become spare parts after you install the Kadee conversion kit are great for that! The catches:
->1. You need large-radius curves to avoid derailments.
->2. Uncoupling two engines connected by this method is a MIND-BOGGLING pain in the rear end–trust me, I speak from experience on this one.
Anybody have any idea where I might be able to get just the Proto:2000 E-unit front dummy couplers without an attached engine? Buying a whole engine for one coupler is just a little out of my budget as a college student.