I want to make seasonal circular layouts. What is the minimum turning radius I can get by with? I guess in other words what is the smallest circle the train will make?
The answer depends on what type of equipment you are running For reliable operation of seasonal loops I would use Kato Unitrack See this listing of sizes from the Kato website Most good train shops carry it or can order it ===== http://www.katousa.com ===== Stock # Curve Track MSRP 20-100 249mm (9 3/4") Radius 45º Curve Track [4 pcs] • 8 pieces make a circle. $7.50 20-110 282mm (11") Radius 45º Curve Track [4 pcs] • 8 pieces make a circle. $8.00 20-120 315mm (12 3/8") Radius 45º Curve Track [4 pcs] • 8 pieces make a circle. $8.00 20-132 348mm (13 3/4") Radius 45º Curve Track [4 pcs] • 8 pieces make a circle. $9.00 20-140 381mm (15") Radius 30º Curve Track [4 pcs] • 12 pieces make a circle. $7.50 ===== eNjoy [ 24. September 2002, 19:43: Message edited by: dbn160 ]
It all depends, as before stated. If the trains you run include SD90MACs, and autoracks or 89' piggyback flats, you will need somethingupwards of 15" to make it look OK, 18 or bigger is best. My layout has 22" min. rad. curves on the mainline, 15" on the branch. Now, if you run small 4-axle locos like a LL SW1200, and a string of ore cars, beercan tankers, or 40' boxcars, 10" rad. will do fine. *plink, plink*
I guess you have to ask yourself "what is the minimum turning radius for reliable hands-off operation?" I assume this'll be a layout that you set up and then just let in run for hours on end like around a Christmas tree or something similar? A tight radius curve might be O.K. for hands-on operation where the occasional derailment can be quickly taken care of, but a layout for display can't tolerate that. I'd suggest using the widest curves available, and then using equipment that doesn't "need" those broad curves. Havin the curves "overly broad" will help to ensure reliable operation. Mark in Utah
