Hi, I'm brand new to the hobby. I've been lurking on the boards for a while and reading up as I plan a layout with my son. We are looking to do a 24" deep shelf layout around the room. The dimensions are 255" x 263" x 200" x 200" (the room is not a perfect square).
We are starting with 2' x 8' foam board and laying track on cork. On the corners, I am working out the curves and am willing the extend the length of the corners to accommodate a wider curve. We are looking to build the layout for the future and as such would like to make the curves as wide as possible.
I downloaded anyrail and started working with it. It seems to be very cumbersome in laying out a track plan. I'm looking for an alternative but that is not the purpose of this post.
In planning the layout, how wide is wide enough for curves. I am willing to sacrifice the way it looks, just so long as the trains run well. Am I safe running everything at 26" curves? can I get away with 24"? Again the prime purpose here is function, not form.
I'm assuming your running HO. With 26" radius curves all 4 axle diesels will be fine as well as most six axle diesels. My suggestion is start with a loop and add a few spurs with industries. The fun part is using your imagination and having fun with your son. It's a great way for him to learn how to use tools. Good luck.
Not being a math major, two 24 inch deep shelves arranged to form an L should provide enough depth for 24 or probably 26 inch curves.
Layout builders have had no problems filling in the squared-off right angle with a little triangle, making the 90 degree turn into two 45 degree turns. This provides enough space for much wider curves.
Of course, you'll want to have support under your foam before you start laying track. Plywood is preferable.
- Douglas
Mel's right - you can easily accommodate a 36" radius curve on a 2' wide corner-shelf.
Wayne
Hi ycg675,
Edit: Mel beat me to it, but mine has easements!!
Congratulations on your first post!
I'm wondering why you would want to tighten the radii when your 24" shelves will allow you to do larger curves. Here is an example:
The center of the curve is 32" radius, and there are easements on both ends. If you eliminate the easements the curve will take up a bit less space but trains won't look as nice going through it. There is lots of space either side of the track shown to run a double line, and the curve can be moved all over the place without having to reduce the radius. It doesn't have to be in the middle of the shelf.
Also, the gusset is relatively small. It only extends 12" down the fascia from where the shelves would meet at 90 degrees.
Food for thought.
Dave
I'm just a dude with a bad back having a lot of fun with model trains, and finally building a layout!
Other things to consider:
-reach: the wider the radius, the further away you are from the corner wall. This becomes a bigger problem if your shelf is above 40" in height
-type of cars and loco: unless you are into modern extra long cars or brass steam, radius beyond 28" is not necessary IMHO
-rest of the plan: Will you need space for a spur in that corner?
Simon
greg - Philadelphia & Reading / Reading