Trackside clearances

[Anonymous]

Anyone out there have an idea on a standard distance from a loading dock to a track? A minimum distance?

Don

[jrbernier]

8 ft used to be the standard for a dock or bldg door on a siding - most have a restricted' no clearance' preceeding them....

[Anonymous]

You should pick up an NMRA track guide (you don't have to be a member). Not only does it have track gauge, but also the clearances around structures and loading platforms. Just stand it onthe track and measure your clearances from there. All model railroaders should have one.

The following was a paid announcement from the NMRA. [#oops]

(kidding!) [:D]

Bob Boudreau

[bogp40]

Use an Athearn boxcar. The sliding door/ detail is about the widest piece of rolling stock. Then gauge enough clearance to the platform. Works good especially if there are any irregularities in the track.
Bob K.

[Jetrock]

It's okay if there is a gap between the edge of the loading dock and the car--shippers normally kept big wood or steel planks to make a little bridge from the car to the platform (not a bad little detail to include on the platform, too!)

[dehusman]

If you go to the major railroad web sites and root around they usually have a location that has engineering information on industrial track standards for companies wanting to build spurs. They would have the prototype info.

For model purposes use the NMRA guage and then double check it with your largest engine and longest car, especially if it is on a curve. Model engines can be wider than prototype engines and the tight radii of indstrial track can cause cars to have larger overhang.

Dave H.