Transition to grade HO scale

[Anonymous]

Often see on plans a 3% grade or 3 inches elevation over 100". At 0 inches and 0% grade is there a transition to get to the 3% grade? Conversly is there a transition to go from the 3% to 0% grade at the 100 inch point. If so, is the transition length added onto the 100 inch distance or included in? Also does the transition depend on the length of the engins running? Is there a calculation or formula one can use to determin the tranition slop rate and length?
Thanks Rich

[Anonymous]

I have not seen this in a long time.. however I recall that large rigid wheelbase locomotives and cars need a transistion that is at least the length of the engine and tender + 1/2.

If you have a 3% grade and you see your equiptment "Falling" off the top going down or "Crunching on the bottom" going up then your transistion is either non existant or not sufficient.

The first sign to me is the front kaydee coupler digging in betwen the ties when attempting to climb uphill at the bottom... or derailing at the top because the wheels are coming off the track robbing the engine of any guidiance when starting down hill.

I hope this helps.

[Anonymous]

If you use a long piece of Flex Track to begin, and end the transition it keeps it a little smoother, as there is no joint to bend. My steam Loco's had some problems comming out of the rise, and usually un coupled the tender.