I am new to the use of flex track and do not know how the radius of curve is laid out. Is it to the track centerline, the outside rail or the inside rail.
I am going to operate some of my locomotives, BNSF Dash 8-40CW as example. I have others as well that do not take an 18 inch radius curve in the Atlas Snap Track. Some of the engines leave the track, so I thought it time to try my hand with flex track.
FrankR2
Frank,
The radius is measured to the centerline of the track.
Don Z.
Research; it's not just for geeks.
FrankR2 I am new to the use of flex track and do not know how the radius of curve is laid out. Is it to the track centerline, the outside rail or the inside rail. I am going to operate some of my locomotives, BNSF Dash 8-40CW as example. I have others as well that do not take an 18 inch radius curve in the Atlas Snap Track. Some of the engines leave the track, so I thought it time to try my hand with flex track. FrankR2
You've discovered what many of us learned early in model railroading, a sharp curve will limit the size of what you can run. This applies to both locomotives and cars. Although some manufacturers list a small minimum radius for their equipment, you'll find this is an absolute minimum, and that tracks should be laid to a wider radius not only for better operation but for better looks. Long cars will overhang more on a tight curve than they will on a wider curve, and with multiple tracks, cars can actually sideswipe while passing through this area. The easiest way to lay out a curve for flex track is with a compass, I've used both the string compass and a home made trammel point. For multiple tracks on a curve, lay out the inner most loop with the compass or trammel, lay the track, then use a ruler to space the next track out a proper distance from the first one.
An excellent source for anyone moving from the basic train set to model railroading is the NMRA (National Model Railroad Assocaition). They have a well laid out beginner's guide on their website:
http://www.nmra.org/beginner/
Plenty of good info and easily available. As always, if you have more questions (and you will), you've already found a good place to post them to get answers.
I took a yard stick and drilled holes at 1,19,21,23,25,etc... This works great as a compass to get 18,20,22,24,etc..radius curves. Split your cork roadbed in half and lay it with the inside edge touching the radius centerline you drew.