helix construction

[TROOPERSMOKEY]

Does anyone out there know of any actual plans and diagrams on line or in print of how to build helix with a 28 inch radius? You can contact me here or send me the info at [e-mail]

[armchair]

 I think kalmbach has a book on this advertized in MRR. The same ideas would work with any radius. Good luck with Your construction...........

[J. Daddy]

I don't know of any to date, I am investigating how to build a helix in S gauge. The key is the minimum radii (inside and outside radii of the track and train clearances), percent grade = rise/run x 100, and no. of turns required to reach each level, once you have determined this your ready for the construction portion. I saw a premade plastic version advertised in MR for HO, however I saw a really neat idea using 36 inch threaded rod with washers and nuts to support each level. The threaded rod runs all the way through each level of cut plywood  through aligned drilled holes from base to top, wereas the nuts and washers set each turn level height. This really simplified the structure and construction and if need-be could be adjusted for fine tuning the clearance.

[loathar]

http://www.3d-perfection.com/railroad-modeling/railroad-modeling-search66.html

Might find some info here.

http://www.fortunecity.com/westwood/beautiful/819/HeliCal.htm

Here's a free program to calculate helixes.

[KingConrail76]

I don't know of any to date, I am investigating how to build a helix in S gauge. The key is the minimum radii (inside and outside radii of the track and train clearances), percent grade = rise/run x 100, and no. of turns required to reach each level, once you have determined this your ready for the construction portion. I saw a premade plastic version advertised in MR for HO, however I saw a really neat idea using 36 inch threaded rod with washers and nuts to support each level. The threaded rod runs all the way through each level of cut plywood  through aligned drilled holes from base to top, wereas the nuts and washers set each turn level height. This really simplified the structure and construction and if need-be could be adjusted for fine tuning the clearance.

I've never heard of this before, but very clever. Thanks for the idea. This brings up another question that I have about helix construction, but I will post a new thread, rather than HiJack this thread.