model railroad grades

[Anonymous]

Can someone tell me what percent of grade is good for N scale trains going up and down a hill or mountain and how do I figure that out. Thank You

[FJ and G]

firefighter,

There's a Model Railroad forum in www.trains.com that has more N scale enthusiasts than here. I'd say 2 percent is a nice grade.

I'm currently debating whether or not to incorporate grades in my layout I'm planning for upstairs. It's a multishelf unit so grades would be a lot trickier if I don't want to make all the shelves have the same grade; might look funny too.

Has anyone else used grades in a multilevel layout? Esp. in the lower shelves?

dav

[cnw1995]

I inadvertently have grades (because of the gravel the layout in built upon). They actually add to the 'fun' of operating because, since I run conventionally, I have to adjust the power as the trains run up and down.

[Big_Boy_4005]

I take it from your name that you are from Minnesota, whereabouts? Twin Cities area?

Back to your question, 4% is about the maximum for any kind of standard train, real or model. 2% is much better and more realistic, and will give you good fun and challenge operating. I take it you know how to calculate grade percents, units rise per 100 units run.

N scale is generally discussed on the Model Railroader forum here, you passed it on your way in. Congrats on your first post anyway.[swg][#welcome]

[Anonymous]

Grades are where toy trains and traction tyres have a big advantage!
[8D]

[FJ and G]

Grades are where speed control is nice.

Without speed control, it's also nice because you can challenge a hill and watch the drivers slipping.

dav

[yellowducky]

Isn't Lionel's 027 graduated trestle set, 8% ?