I need help here
I own this Locomotive the manual says says the Locomotive requires Lionel or Lionel-compatible O42 or larger track curves. I need a plan that uses O48 can I run my Locomotive on O36
What is the different I though both requires Lionel or Lionel-compatible O-42 or larger track curves since they are both AC6000 one says Minimum curve: O-36
(1) In this AC600 Manual 73-8403-250 7/11
https://www.lionelsupport.com/...3250LEGACYAC6000.pdf
It says Your locomotive requires Lionel or Lionel-compatible O-42 or larger track curves.
(2) In this AC600 Manual 72-8298-250 10/08
https://www.lionelsupport.com/media/servicedocuments/57636728298250.pdf
It say Minimum curve: O-36
They may be models of the same prototype, but differences between details in the manuals' pictures suggest that they are different models of that prototype.
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as for the O36 track, I would not run the engine that requires O42 on it.
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Frequently a manufacturor will specify a minimum curve radius to ensure reliable tracking on switches.
That being said, if you want to try the 042 radius engine on 036 tracks I don't believe it will hurt it, it might just work, but if it doesn't don't be surprised.
Sometimes it is clearance issues with switches (turnouts) on your layout that is the limiting factor for needing a larger minimum radius.
I've got a couple of cars that track OK on 027 track, but they will not clear the switch machine when they is taken on the divergent path through the switch. Some locomotives might have this issue as well.
I use 036 fastrack
Overhang might be a problem on the O36 curves. There may not be a problem with short trains. However the possiblility of derailment increases the longer the train is due to the additional weight. The strain might be just enough to cause the overhanging unit to tip over.
It is interesting that both engines appear to be so similar.
You could try : set each engine upside down in a loco cradle. Test how much rotation each engines trucks have. Are they the same ? Look for any added details on the engine requiring O-42. Do they both have the same wheel configuration ? Blind drivers and such. If you feel like they are the same, you could then try it at low speed.
But personally, I would feel more comfortable staying with what the manufacturer recommends. They might know a reason why.
Aside from the truck rotation angle, length is very important, not only between coupler pulling faces, but also between truck pivots.
The history of Lionel's F3s is a good example. The earlier, horizontal-motor models had trouble clearing O27 switch machines. When they went to vertical motors, they wisely moved the pivots closer together.
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