double loop

[Anonymous]

on a 4x8 layout in ho scale - is there enough room to run a double oval using 18 inch inside curves and 22 inch outside? also would there be enough length to run one oval under the other? i'm trying to get some idea as to how i can design a long haul and still have a couple of freight areas. also, can someone tell me approximately how many freight cars my spectrum 2-10-0 can pull efficiently?

[Anonymous]

You will have enough room.

[ericboone]

Have you tried running a 2-10-0 on an 18" radius? Does the manufacturer say it will? That is a relatively long rigid wheel base for an 18" curve.

[Anonymous]

QUOTE: Originally posted by sirgknight

on a 4x8 layout in ho scale - is there enough room to run a double oval using 18 inch inside curves and 22 inch outside? also would there be enough length to run one oval under the other? i can someone tell me approximately how many freight cars my spectrum 2-10-0 can pull efficiently?

Another question will be, will my Steam locomotive fit going under the lower half of the elevated upper part? You at least need 2 1/4 " clearence between the top rail head on the lower track and the over head for the loco to clear. Are you going to use cork road bed which raises the lower track?

[Anonymous]

at this point i don't really know what i'm going to do. i don't really know what equipment i'll use. right now i'm like a fish out of water just flopping on the bank!!!! not having a hobby shop within a hundred miles doesn't help either.

[cacole]

You should be able to use a 20 and 22 inch radius instead of going down as low as 18. Even a lot of new newer rolling stock doesn't run good on 18 inch radius.

[Anonymous]

[#ditto] I have a 22 and a 20 with one of my sidings haveing an 18. If your 2-10-0 (is that a decapod?) will run the 20 inch, it probably own't pull a whole lot without traction tires because it will be sliding and binding up as it goes around he curves. If you can find a good way to do it, you might want to get some flangeless wheels for the middle 3 sets of drivers.

Have fun with your layout,
Greg

[Anonymous]

yes its the decapod. thanks, for the info. right now i'm planning on starting with only eight freight cars and caboose. where can i find 20" curved track? 18 and 22 inch is fairly common but i haven't seen 20 inch advertised.

[cacole]

Use flextrack instead of pre-formed.

[Anonymous]

oh! of course! thanks...