What are good grade percents to use when building n or ho model layouts?
Hi. The scale is not as important as your skills in laying the grade, how steep it is, and how much train your locos will want to haul up them. No matter the scale, a grade has the same percentage.
General rule - less than 3, but determine it for yourself with trials. Set up a grade and see what you can get away with. Then hope to match that grade in all respects, except further refinement, when you have it permanently on your layout.
It depends on where your modeling. Most people model a 2% or 3% grade, but it’s your own personal perferance. One you get into 3% you may need helpers for you heavyest ferights. Once you get higher than that you will need helpers for most of your trains.
Regardless of what gradient you build, one of the most important things is to provide a proper vertical easement at top and bottom, and at any point where the grade changes in between. This prevents flanges from climbing over curved track and will also eliminate false uncoupling.
Cookie-cut plywood will do this automatically - just cut an additional few inches into the “flat.” The springiness of the wood will do the rest. If you are using any other kind of grade support, a little conscious thought is required to achieve the desired result.
Happy tracklaying.
Chuck (modeling Central Japan in September, 1964 - on 2.5% grades)