Here is the helix I built.
It's 2 1/4 turns and raises the train some 21". The diameter is about 16'. If I had it to do over again I'd make the clearances a little larger. I designed it for 1;22 and then bought a 1:20 loco which just barely fits.
Rex
About A year ago I built this double helix to use at HAGRS. It is built from 4 and 5ft diameter curves and Aristo trestle kit.
The link goes to a Youtube video of the helix in action.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3LkM5wRis4
JimC.
By the way, you posted this on the Garden Railways site, I think you could get more ideas on the Model Railroader site.
I tried a helix on G scale, it takes a LOT of room.
Regards, Greg
Visit my site: http://www.elmassian.com - lots of tips on locos, rolling stock and more.
Click here for Greg's web site
How high is the helix? What is the radius you plan to use? Also you need a good base to secure you track into, but don't nail it in because of track warping. Here is a website that sells helix kits - http://www.easyhelix.com/ Hope this helps! - Peter
Modeling the Bellefonte Central Railroad
Fan of the PRR
Garden Railway Enthusiast
Check out my Youtube Channel:
http://www.youtube.com/user/PennsyModeler
I am trying to plan an HO layout using a helix to take my track up and over the entry door to my train room. This helix would have a switch track prior to entry that would also take me down into a lower level that I hope to use as a train station/storage area. I want the mainline to go up the helix, over the door, and down a matching helix on the other side of the door and continue around a 12x11 room. Both helix's would be covered by a large mountain that I am not quite sure the best way to build it yet. I also plan to build a trap door to access the inner side of the helix's in the event of a problem. Please let me know if this is possible and if so the best way to go about it. Thanks
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