Turnout size

[Anonymous]

What size turnout should I use on my mainline and on my branchline along with my yard turnouts for best operation and appearance. Thanks

[dknelson]

Not enough info to give a really informed answer. But in general, and talking HO here, the usual advice is No. 6. Having said that, most equipment will run through a No. 4 and there is a real cost in terms of space as you go up from No 4 to No 6 and beyond
Remember that the prototype would be talking about No. 22s and such
Dave Nelson.

[Anonymous]

Racrac,

I would presume you are refering to HO scale. The no. 6 turnouts in a yard or industrial siding turnouts from the mainline offers a more pleasing appearance and operation than a no. 4. I don't think there is much cost difference between the two. For mainline, double track crossovers, I use no. 8 turnouts which provide a smoother turning of the rolling stock at speed.

I'm sure you should be able to buy used no.4 and no. 6 turnouts at train shows for a buck or so to experiment with before buying new stuff for the actual set installation. You may even be able to repair the used turnouts to usable condition.

One thing I would recommend before you dive into the turnout controls. Consider ground throws for industrial and yard turnouts before you get wrapped up in the wiring for the solenoids. They take up less space and help get away from the toy like appearance of the snap controls.

Ken, D&J Railroad, Stafford, VA

[Sperandeo]

Hello "racrac,"

The type of engines and rolling stock you want to run should influence your choice of both turnout sizes and minimum radius. You'll find a good set of guidelines on this in the National Model Railroad Association's Recommended Practices, specifically RP11, which you can find on the NMRA Web site at www.nmra.org. It covers all scales and so should be helpful whatever scale you use.

Good luck,

Andy

Andy Sperandeo
MODEL RAILROADER Magazine