J. Daddy wrote: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.
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.