I had a couple of questions, but decided to sleep on it, and take some pictures and post them of my layout
before asking any more questions.Be back later.
TheK4Kid
If you are referring to 933-3012, their double track truss bridge, I had an issue where it wasn’t tall enough for double stack intermodals without modification. The height was only 2 7/8" . Here’s a link of how I modified mine: http://www.thebinks.com/trains/Truss_Bridge_Modify.html
Hi Engineer Jeff,
Nice layout and thanks for the reply.
I have two of these bridge kits, and was contemplating using them along with two sets of Woodland Scenics foam risers I have to elevate part of my layout on one end, but keep changing my mind.
The risers are 3% and if I do use them, I will leave the last riser out.
I was thinking of having one track with a road running alongside and across the bridges.
I am not sure if 3% will be too steep.It was an idea I got in my head sometime after I started construction on my layout.
If I don’t use them or the bridges, I’ll probably see if I can sale them on Ebay or a swap meet.
TheK4Kid
I understand that Walthers has redesigned the double-track truss bridge so it will now clear double-stack containers, so if you intend to run them you need to insure that you have the newer version of the bridge.
Hi cacole,
Won’t have the clearance problem, I am running late 1940’s to mid 1950’s steam and early diesel era.Not even sure I am going to use them yet.I have been contemplating an elevated section, using two sets of 3% risers running side by side, one carrying a track, the other a road, then again, I may go with two tracks instead of a road.
My layout really isn’t prototypical, but totally freelanced of the PRR of that era.Part of it will resemble
parts of Ft Wayne Indiana of that era.
TheK4Kid
I took a look on their website and it is still listed with a 2 7/8" clearance.
15 x 5 x 4-1/4"(Overall Height) 37.5 x 12.5 x 10.6cm (Clearance 2-7/8") - Kit
Walthers Part # 933-3012, p. 436 Walthers 2009 HO Scale Reference
HO scale, $24.98, currently in stock at Walthers
http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/933-3012
The single truss bridge looks taller and states it is tall enough for double stacks.
Er, if clearance wasn’t the issue, what was? You’ve taken the time to post a non-question, and reply to responses, but not bring up the original issue.
[?]
But will it clear AutoMax cars?
I had a problem with stack trains hitting toe uppers and solved it by installing 28’ wheels on the cars. Also, after noticing that some containers are taller than others, I make sure not to put two tall ones on the same platform.
Hi Scarpia, You make a good point.
My original question is if it would look good to place a parallel road alongside the track up a 3% grade, and on across the bridge. .and back down the downgrade, also 3%.
I have two sets of foam risers, and was contemplating putting them side by side.
Then again is 3% too steep for a couple of short trains?
I also intended to leave the last riser off the grade, so the original 4 1/2 inch grade rise would only be about 4 inches.
Also while I was looking at the directions for putting the bridge together, it mentions and shows a part # 5, but the drawing doesn’t show exactly how it attaches to the bridge framework.
I think the instructions really lack for clarity.
TheK4Kid
When I assembled mine, I found it useful to take all the parts and spread them out. The confusing part to me was that the sides of the bridge were assembled to make a hollow core; conceptually that took me a bit to wrap my head around. I’m sorry, but I don’t remember which part #5 was.
Per the slope, I have a 4% grade on my test layout, and a single Bachmann 2-8-0 has no problem pulling 8 40’ cars. My Atlas GP-9 can pull 8 50’ footers, again with no issues.
Hope that helps.
3% is OK for short trains, but 2% would look and work better if you can fit it in.
The WS inclines are designed to go up to 4" but you don’t really have to have that big a clearance in HO. 3-1/2" (or even less) should work, so you are OK leaving the last section of incline out. As always a “real world” test with your equipment will give you the best idea of how much clearance you need.