Layouts and layout building

I am about to build a table for a small N scale layout.   I need to know what a good radius is for turns for realistic looking operations, so I can decide the width of my table.   I can not really go more than 3 feet in width, but was hoping a 14"-16" radius (28-32" circumference) would be good.    Any tips or ideas would be great.

Merry Christmas,
Joe

Joe, Merry Christmas to you too and welcome to the forums!!! I model in N and have a small door size layout (36" x 80") and have found that operationally, 15" is the bare menimum if you are planning on running any modern equipment such as 6-axle locos or 89' autoracks. Of course if you can do 16" or larger, things will only look better the larger radius you get. On my room size layout currently being built, my minimum visible radius will be 18" although I will still use 15" radius curves as needed in hidden areas. Jamie

Merry Christmas to you Joe!!!!

Having had 2 layouts on doors, I found that 11"r was a good radius for 4-axle locos and 40-50' cars.

I did run 6-axle power but tried to stay with small 4-axle engines The little Kato NW-2 is an excellent engine for this size layout. I also used Atlas GP-38's and 40's as road power.

Stay with quality track like Atlas or the Kato UNITRAK and you will be very happy!

Good luck,

pc