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There are two criteria for easments: operation and appearance. If you have large wheelbase locomotives or passenger cars with diaphragms you will need easements just for operation, otherwise they may be used to help appearance. Even when easements are not essential, they may improve reliable operation. Assuming you are in HO Scale I recommend the following . . . 4-wheel truck diesels, operation easements up to 24 in rad. 6-wheel truck diesels, operation easements up to 28 in rad. Mogul or 0-6-0 switchers, operation easements up to 24 in rad. Consolidation, Pacific or 0-8-0 switcher, operation easements up to 28 in rad. Mikado, Mountain, operation easements up to 32 in rad. Articulated locomotives, operation easements up to 36 in rad. (maybe more) Any curve in plain view would benifit from an appearance standpoint with easements up to 60 in radius. After that it becomes difficult to notice. Some manufacturers report 'Minimum radius' but I would use easements if you get close to that value. Easements are a great value if you have the patients to lay them out properly. It doesn't do any good if there is a small kink in the track between the end of the easement and the main curve. I use a trick where a turnout can form an easement curve when you use higher numbered turnouts at the ends of curves. Good Luck - Ed
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