What is the smallest size spur ?

[theodorefisk]

When I was with the ATSF, there was a spur for volcanic rock loading in I believe NM or AZ, not sure which, but it could hold only two cars. The rate in the carload tariff specified that it covered two cars only. It was quite interesting to come upon that tidbit.

[jjdamnit]

Hello all,

Knowing the frugality of prototypical railroads I would say...

"As long as practicable."

On my HO pike I have a spur that is one re-railer (9-inches) long.

This is more of a stub track as opposed to a siding that services an industry.

It can accommodate a single 4-axle locomotive, either of my 70- or 44-ton switchers or a SW1200 cow & calf M/U or any rolling stock under 65-feet.

The limiting factor of the stub track is that it buts against a retaining wall for the spiral trestle.

Hope this helps.

[jmbjmb]

The town we live in has several modelgenic industries that were served by rail within the last ten years even (couple still are).  One was a propane dealer that was just a sput just long enough for a single tank car.  It had two propane tanks and an office.  Pretty much like the Walthers kit.  Right next door was a food service supplier that fit the proverbial boxcar is bigger than the industry. 

 

jim

[tomikawaTT]

I recall seeing a large freight handling facility where each dock door had its own one carlength spur.  the 'lead' paralleled the building centerline but the dock wall was serrated like a ripsaw.  Made it easy to pull the one box-brake needed for a specific freight to a specific destination without disturbing other work in progress.

JNR handled LCL in box-brakes.  On many routes, they were more common than full cabins.  So the freight house also served as the yard's caboose tracks.

Chuck (Modeling Central Japan in September, 1964)

[BRAKIE]

oldline1

I believe the industry has to pay for the siding to be installed so with that thought and the cost of real estate I would think they might be somewhat popular.

Roger,They pay a railroad contractor  to install the siding and the industry needs to maintain it. After the siding is installed the railroad inspects it to ensure its up to their industrial siding standards-like we do for clearance and other such things.

A side note.

Contemporary  modelers  may wish to add OSHA's blue flag rule near the unloading/loading area.

[oldline1]

I have seen single car sidings several times.

I believe the industy has to pay for the siding to be installed so with that thought and the cost of real estate I would think they might be somewhat popular.

Roger Huber

Deer Creek Locomotive Works

 

[maxman]

[BRAKIE]

the old train man

Anybody know the shortest spur used to be realistic? I have a spur that will hold only 3- 40 foot box cars and its curved. Should I rip it out or let it be?

 

 

That question has many correct answers sooooo,let's keep it simple.

A industry siding is based on the industry's needs and may end just beyond the first dock door. OTOH if they recieve several covered hoppers then a long siding is required on both sides of the unloading area.

Modeling wise I like 2 spots and a off spot-one section of flex track will suffice.

[NYBW-John]

I have an auto parts warehouse that has a receiving dock that is only big enough to handle one car so there is no reason to have a spur any longer than that unless there was a car puller.

[Great Western]

I have three spurs in my garden railroad.  One holds two 40ft. cars used for engineering trains, another holds three MOW cars and the third holds five cars.  This spur is used to service a grain elevator (when box cars were the main cars used) but can be used when the main and passing loop is in use.  All are in different part of the back yard.  Storage space is essential and does add interest to the layout.

[bearman]

I have a team track that will hold one 40' box car.

[the old train man]

Thanks for the info,Ill keep the spur.

[angelob6660]

I have a small spur that holds two 89' flatcars for trailer loading/unloading.

Although I got another industry that holds two 50' boxcars. It fits three 40' boxcars.

[WVWoodman]

That is long enough to represent an industry.  I have 3 of them that are about that size. 

 

[emdmike]

I have had spurs that only hold one small box car(wagon for me as I model European).  A spur is a spur no matter how many cars they hold.  Spurs were usually designed to hold a set number of cars based on car type/length and how many the industry wants on hand at any one time between being switched out by the railway.    Mike

[the old train man]

Anybody know the shortest spur used to be realistic? I have a spur that will hold only 3- 40 foot box cars and its curved. Should I rip it out or let it be?