Getting ready to build my yard. Been looking at the ladder system from mirco engineering. What are you thoughts on there ladder system?
The system is made up of 5 turnouts.
The 5a is a standard #5 turnout.
The 5b thru 5e are designed to be used together for a more compact ladder than is possible with normal #5's (i.e. 5a). As their web site says, they do this through curved diverging tracks, overlapping turnouts, and track spacing of 2-1/16 inches (which is wider than the NMRA standard - contrary to what their spec sheet says).
The result is the ladder takes up less space in length but is a little bit wider.
You'll also increase the S track problem as well, although for short cars this probably will not be a problem. If you are using long freight or passenger cars you might want to test first.
Personally, unless space is really critical, I would just use the #5a's for a standard ladder. You can trim off the leading ties to get a little closer spacing to match NMRA standard if needed.
Also Atlas #4's are really #4-1/2 and may work just as well for shortening the ladder.
Paul
It looks like a neat product to get more yard tracks quickly.
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I would love to see an actual overlay comparrison of ME yard ladders vs. another system, but could not find one.
-Kevin
Living the dream.
I started a thread on this very topic some months ago and it generated some interesting information and replies.
http://cs.trains.com/mrr/f/11/t/259014.aspx
Dave Nelson
JohnWPowell Getting ready to build my yard. Been looking at the ladder system from mirco engineering. What are you thoughts on there ladder system?
It looks very cool and if you are not running long cars, then it is probably a good idea. I run long cars so I am not going to use the #5 ladder system; I am hoping ME comes out with a #6 ladders system; I would use that.
Rio Grande. The Action Road - Focus 1977-1983
comparison of me ladder track yard throat to standard turnout yard throat.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKwLEt29brg