I was cuirous how might I know what’s the maximum size of car / locomotive length that would run okay on a 14" radius n scale curve? Or, for any curve for that matter. Trial and error?
hi
my version of NMRA STANDARDS
The length of your longest car in comparison with the minimum mainline radius (and in much used yards)
1:2 is taking chances with technical possibilities, looking very toy like.
1:3 the most often used compromise (between 1: 2,5 and 1: 3)
1:4 for looking really good
1:5 for almost hands free coupling or uncoupling
The above ratios are for HO, a bit better would be nice in N-scale.
Immaculate track-work, no S-curves, no pushing, no cars of different length and a soft hand on the throttle all help to get your train through curves without derailments. Newbies should not take risks with their mainline, keep the 1:3 ratio.
Paul
3 X car length is a tight curve
4 X car length is a moderate curve
5 X car length is a broad curve
A 4" car x 4 = 16" curve = moderate curve
There are several other post you can search for that can help you more
ratled
NMRA’s RP http://www.nmra.org/standards/sandrp/rp-11.html
Layout Design SIG http://macrodyn.com/ldsig/wiki/index.php?title=Curve_radius_rule-of-thumb
Enjoy
Paul