What is a steam model’s rigid wheel-base and how does one measure it? I’m trying to decide if the 2-8-0 I have will meet the “L” Classification in the NMRA’s RP-11. I want to establish a minimum radius of 20" on my layout.
Generally, for a steam locomotive that would be the distance between the first and last driving axles. An exception would be the articulated (where it would be for EACH engine). Getting REALLY exotic, on a GN 2-6-8-0, it would be the longest of the two possible dimensions.
Ed
And, just to really create chaos, if your New York Central Hudson is pulling a 4-10 pedestal tender, the five rigid axles of the tender have the longest rigid wheelbase!
I have operated several different 2-8-0 and 2-8-2 types on 18" radius sectional track. The only problem I encountered was conflict between the cab and the tender on one class of 2-8-2 (short drawbar, oversize grab irons.) The tenders had no problem staying coupled to the kind of cars I would expect to see behind 2-8-0’s: 40’ box cars, 36’ twin hoppers and standard crummies.
Based on my experience, a 2-8-0 should have no problem with your designed radius - unless it’s pulling a PRR Lines West 16-wheel tender.
Chuck (modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)