Track Centers in H.O.

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

What is the minimum adviced track centers in H.O. on the straight . I’m building an extensive switching yard and would like it to look as near authentic as possible . Can anyone advice please. CPPedler

2

More than you ever wanted to know:

http://www.nmra.org/standards/s-8tables.html

3

I use 2 inches.

4

1 1/2 inches is usually the minimum.
2 inches is best on straight (what I use)
2 1/4 to 2 1/2 on curves

Most HO roadbed laid edge to edge will give you 2 inch spacing.

Nick

5

Typical standard track centers were around 13’-14’ back in the 50’s. Then a federal loaw madated a minimum 15’ centers on new construction. Typical HO centers are 2"(works out to 14’6"). Many of the popular track system are based on this figure. I use 2" on my sidings and yard tracks.
That said, a lot of folks like to ‘widen’ that figure to 2 1/2" so their ‘non-HO’ fingers can get between the cars! On curves, one should have something wider due to the possibility of side swipes.

Jim Bernier