How long are most steam engines? for turntable size.

[Boyd]

I think I can fit a smaller turntable in one spot on my new bedroom layout. I'm unsure of how long of track length I need to be long enough for most steam engines and tenders. Like semiscale 4-8-4s. Right now all I have in steam is a 2-6-4 and a cheap little Marx 2-4-2. For being my first one this turntable will be a simple cutout of the plywood with a lazy susan under it. No frills. Boyd.

[willpick]

Boyd, A semi-scale 4-8-4(like my MTH GS-4) should fit on a 24" TT. I know this because you are where I was 6 months ago[:)] It actually would have overhung the ends(pilot & rear coupler), but the table would rotate. I have since changed my mind and am now designing and will(hopefully[:)]) eventually build a transfer table, as I can fit more engines side by side in my limited available expansion space.

[Boyd]

More measuring and pondering brought me to the point that I'm scratching the TT for now. The table that I considered doing a TT on was only 30" wide and I needed to have other track pass by, so I'll just make a wye after I buy more switches. There will be a siding going off that same spot into the closet anyway so thats what I'll do.

[AlanRail]

30: TT

[ben10ben]

Anything shorter than 20", and a good many semi-scale engines won't fit on it. I would say that 24" is an absolute minimum.

[spankybird]

After a quick review of some of my engines, I would have to agree with 24". Some would fit at 20 -22, but 24 will cover all but the large ones.