Track radius/turnouts

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I run some equipment that requires a 24" minimum curve radius. Does anyone know what the minimum turnout number (#6? #8?) I would need to preserve this minimum requirement?

Also, about how many passenger cars can an Athearn loco handle?

Thanks for your help!

-Chris-

2

Chris,

The Atlas No. 4 Customline turnouts are adequate for 24 inch radius, but I recommend using No. 6. The Atlas No. 4 is actually a No. 4-1/2. Don’t make the mistake of buying a ‘Snap Switch’ which equals an 18 inch radius curve. No. 6 turnouts appear much better with longer equipment.

I would suspect an Athearn loco should pull more passenger cars than you would be likely to put in a single train unless you have steep grades. Good Luck - Ed

3

I did a little test and a dirty, poorly maintained athearn could pull around 10 cars up a 4% grade. (HO)

4

Depends on the passenger cars wieght and rolling characteristics, and which Athearn loco, and radius and grade of the track.

Nigel

5

they were freight not passenger cars though.