Bridges on Grades

[Anonymous]

My layout will (hopefully) have 3 river crossings. Problem: They will all be on grades! Can/Do bridges GO up/down hill? I have an awesome Spandrel Arch doubletrack bridge that I want to install on the grade in the mountain country part of my layout, I just want to be sure it can be done...

If it's important, my grade is 2%.

Thank you.

[Anonymous]

Lots of bridges were built on grades on real railroads, especially in mountainous terrain. While climbing or descending, trains often had to cross ravines, rivers, etc. all the while still maintaining the grade.

2% should not be a problem at all. 4% like I have is way too much!

[Anonymous]

Just make the peirs at the low end very strong. I have done plenty of bridges on grade and never really thought about it until you posted the question.

Gravity always pulls straight down and I would think the low end of the bridge will require greater strength.

Logging crews in western history built them on grades all the time. In fact the more common problem was failure to "cross brace" forward and backwards the length of the bridge... thus when the engine hit the brakes the bridge would fall forward and down like dominos.

Build your bridges and run your trains anyway you want to on that grade. Have fun!!

[tomwatkins]

Bridges on grades are very prototypical, particularly in mountainous areas. Two percent grades shouldn't be a problem.
Have Fun,
Tom Watkins

[dehusman]

You just have to watch stone or concrete arch bridges because the the piers will remain vertical, its the deck portion that wil have the grade on it.

Dave H.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the info! I figured it must be done in the "real world," but just wanted to be certain.

Matt