My son has given me the project of putting up a display in his store. My problem (one among many) is that I have not done any model railroad in something like 50 years!! What he wants is an N scale inside an HO scale to show the different sizes to customers. Don't laugh too hard here, but he is giving me space on top of two racks that I have a whopping 3 foot by 8 foot area to work with. Knowing this will have to be REAL basic, is it even possible to get an N inside an HO in that space?? Any and all help will be appreciated--well, at least welcome! THANKS in advance for any help,suggestions, best wishes and/or condolences!
It's possible. I wouldn't use curves over 15-16" radius for the HO scale (which limits the locomotives and rolling-stock you can run) but the N scale should be fine... you'll be limited to a radius of around 11-12" which should let you demonstrate more stuff. I'd put the N scale INSIDE the HO loop. It'll be too close to the edge of a 3' space if you do it outside the HO. Are you looking for track plans or just suggestions?
N inside HO can be done but HO inside 36" is a bit tight. If he started you with 3x8 I am willing to bet he will go 4x8. Tell him that is the typical size most people start with and it would give customers an idea of what they could accomplish in that space. You need to accomidate a minimum radius of at least 18" but I would go as wide as possible for reliability and the chance to run larger equipment, so go for 22".
Plans appreciated!!! Just wanted to know first of all if it was possible, but any thoughts on plans would be wonderful!! Because of the size of the displays we are really limited to the 3x8--anything larger would stick out into the aisles too far. Since I'm doing the grunt work--retirement does have it's disadvantages--the KISS principal will be greatly appreciated!! Thanks for the info!! :tb-biggrin:
The problem is HO scale trains and 16" radius curves are not conducive(SP) to a positive "exposure" of the scale. (all the N scale folks are nodding in agreement). It's possible to run HO within the defined limits but virtually nothing modern is gonna" be possible. I don't like it but my opinion is to let the N and Z scale shine and do some kind of industrial switching scenario in the middle in HO where it at least has a chance. Just too many issues for a positive outcome. The analogy that comes to mind is any NFL team against any college team. (playing football). JMO , Bobby.
