I put a tandem girder/truss bridge on about a 2+ percent incline, past a 7-1/2 curved turnout (on the right in photo) but with a short curve between the turnout and bridge. I had to cut (bandsaw) and sand the bridge abutments and middle pier to just the right heights (those are Chooch resin), and also cut into the abutment at one end to match the height and shim some bridge shoes, etc. Just some trial and error work.
Paul
Modeling HO with a transition era UP bent
Thanks Chuck. I appreciate the feedback.
Nice. Thanks for sharing. This is very helpful.
Caveat - I hand-lay all of my specialwork.
I have laid turnouts on grades - which are no different from level track. I have also laid turnouts through the transition zones of grades, which requires VERY careful attention to the rail geometry. The same for turnouts on superelevated curves (!)
The key is to make sure that the curves are smooth and at or above minimum radius. Gauge everything, have a test train of derailment-finders readily available and don't settle for anything less than a close approach to perfection. When pushing the limits, good enough - isn't. If you can't run your most derailment-prone stock through the site at warp 8, re-work until you can.
As for bridges on grades, my ruling grade is 2.5% and my bridges include a concrete spandrel arch on a curve. On the 4%, the bridges are Atlas pony trusses, some of them rebuilt to skew configuration.
Chuck (Modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)
A couple of bridges on grades (2.5%):
Two turnouts on a grade, at far right:
Wayne
Yes. Access panel through the fascia.
Turnouts take maintenance, and sometimes replacing. Will you be able to fix or to replace a turnout that is inside a tunnel?
Crandell
Good feedback all. The curves are 18" radius. The turnout routes come through the tunnel portal which is interesting, putting the turnout (and points) in the tunnel - yikes. The plan calls for #6 turnouts for the main line and #4 for the branch lines. Do you think the 18" radius would be best served by a #4 curved turnout?
It looks as if I have the 6" - 8" on the same plane.
I don't have to super elevate this particular curve since it is mostly tunnel.
Thanks,
-Ron
Curved turnouts are tricky because the inner route, if you tilt and superelevate it, will dip downward noticeably. If you can keep it strictly on a plane with the tracks on either side of it, or rather if you can manage to keep the tracks on either side of the turnout relatively on the same plane for about 8", you should be fine. I don't know what that will do to the rest of your grade, but the warning is not to have a change of grade coming up to, or leaving the turnout, immediately. You may get lucky and manage the through route, but as soon as your cars are forced to follow the diverging route you are likely to get derailments or uncoupling.
I'm using a 2% incline. Appears the turnout would be laid between the 1" and 0" mark. Looks like I need to use a curved turnout on an 18" radius. Calls for #6 turnouts.
Yes. Just checking in if it is appropriate and if it's been done. Appears the plan I'm using shows it that way.
I have laid a 22 degree curved deck girder bridge on an incline. It was relatively painless. Are you looking for tips on how to do it, or just wanting to know if people have done it ?
The prototype does both.
I tried to sell my two cents worth, but no one would give me a plug nickel for it.
I don't have a leg to stand on.
Has anyone laid a turnout on an incline? Has anyone placed a deck truss or deck girder bridge on an incline?
Thanks.