This Atlas "Birkshire Vally Route" layout is constructed with one "reverse" track. One of the improvements I was considering is a 2nd reverse track on the opposite side of the layout. I've attached five views of my proposed 2nd reverse track location; I don't know if it's plausible and would value anyone's opinion. Photo 1 is looking East, Photo 2 the West view; Photo 3 shows the proposed Atlas 0887 bridge from the other size of the layout; in the foreground is the original reverse track. Photo 4 shows the East view again; in the back you can see the bridge, in the front where my finger is pointing, is where I propose to install the #4 Left turnout, which will connect to #4 Right on the other side of the 0887 bridge. Photo 5 is West view with Bridge in place. The only thing I'm not clear on, is how to start the "UP" grade from the #4 Left turn-out, which will be on an original downgrade in the layout.
According to Atlas RR, HO division, Good to Go! ..............which will be on an original downgrade in the layout.[/quote] Bruce, That is a 2.25% grade which is good. Your under 2.6% which is excellent. -----Original Message----- To: Ted Reimlinger Subject: Re: #35 Berkshire valley route Ted, The turnout is approximately 1/2 higher than the bridge because of the grade of the layout. The climb would be 2.5 inches in 4.5 feet. I might be able to move the switch further away from the bridge, which would increase the length and decrease the difference in height. Thanks, Bruce - Original Message ----- From: "Ted Reimlinger" <treimlinger@atlasrr.com> Bruce, what is the track distance in feet, from the #4 sw. to the bridge. Assuming that the Height is of the bridge pier is 3", you will need 8' of track to elevate to the bridge pier. This gives you a 2.6% grade, which I believe is max. What ever the height, it is better to elavate just after the #4 sw. Last edited by BNTorsney; Today at 08:09 AM.
