I know this has been discussed but I had a problem finding this topic. I am beginning an addition to my existing 38" high single level layout. I would like to end up with three levels; A lower level of staging at 20", mid level at 38", and an upper level at 58". Both upper levels have a 20" wide front area and a 10" raised back area and contain about 200 feet of double track mainline plus sidings etc. Track is code 100 HO track.
My question is “What are the advantages and disadvantages of single or double track in a helix?”
I plan on track radius of 30" in the helix, and a return loop around the perimeter of the helix on each level to permit continous running.
I appreciate any thoughts you may have!
-Bill
Bill,
I built a single track helix between levels on my N scale layout. An obvious disadvantage of the single track helix is that becomes a traffic choke point. So you might want to take that into consideration? (I put sidings near the helix on both levels)
A disadvantage of a double track helix is that it takes up more space. That was one issue I faced.
I know a lot of modelers use a multi track helix as a hidden staging area. Those are impressive looking!
Another thing to consider is the track required to double track a helix. My little single track helix is about 45’ of track (18" radius). They can suck up the $'s!
More track more maintenance and opportunity for bugs? Think about how easy it is to get into helix for these issues.
Those are a few things that come to mind?
Tim
A multiple track helix becomes your largest passing siding. This alone is sufficient reason to make it at least double track.
Bill:
A helix going down to 20" off the floor will be tricky to get insidfor maintenance/emergencies/etc. And will get harder as you get older. I’m sure you have considered this.
A three level helix will be simplier to build and operate if it is one track. A traffic choke point should not bother a single operator greatly, but might become a bother for multi person ops.
Dave
Thank you for the thoughtful replies. All these are very good points to consider. I am tending toward double track. And maybe raise the lower level an inch or two because I already got older! Ha!
-Bill
LION has FOUR TRACK helix. Him has four track mane lion and so kneads four track helix. Him decorated the inside of the helix to look like a SUBWAY TUNNEL!
ROAR
I have a 2 track helix, with a 2 track main line that goes around the top of the leix for constant running, plus a singleloop track around the bottom for additional staging. Helix tracks are 29.75" and 32". Separation between levels is only 12", something in retrospect I should have made a little further apart. Since I’m 5’6" short and 2 of the sides of the layout are 30" wide, it is what it is…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_P2tSUDxp0
You can see it here on my video…No audio just subtitles…
Neal