I can’t find another way to get a thank you message to someone on the forum so Cudaken I hope you get this, or could someone pass this message to him.
A while ago I posted future plans on a new layout and I said I was going to make my turnarounds 5’. Ken, in his infinite wisdom suggested that I try to go at least 5.5’. Because he went 5’ and wished he went 5.5’. So my plans are for 5.5’ and because of the increase, I will be able to have an outside line with a radius of 30" and an inside line of 24" instead of 24" and 22" with a 5’ turnaround.
So Ken, I hope you get this so I can tell you thanks.
You could safely expand the inside loop to 26", and still have plenty of clearance with the 30" outer loop. Might even be able to do 27", that would still leave 3" spacing - test with your longest cars and locos, but 3" should be plenty of spacing with that curve radius.
FYI: In order to send Ken a PM (private message), all you need to do is to click on Ken’s profile name (cudaken) then click the Start a conversation button and a text box will pop up. Type in your message then click the Send button.
Joe, your more than welcome and you are making me [:$] blush! [(-D]
While I am in the camp that bigger engines can handle tighter turns with good tracking laying. I have never heard someone saying your radius is to big!
My 5 foot section has one tight turn where I have a diamond crossing the main. Now if I only had that 6 extra inches! [:-^]
Just make sure it is free standing where you an get all the way around the bench. A 33 inch is just about the maximum reach for most people.
I used 36”, 38.5”, and 41” curves. I have an around the walls layout in my basement and the curves fit the 4’x4’ corner sections. If you have the room to make a smallest 90 degree curve 36” it makes the longer passenger cars look more prototypical going around the curves.