Bridges

[rlbeetle]

I am working on my first HO layout (not counting the simple oval I started with). I am planning on a simple figure 8 using a 3" bridge for the cross over. What slope do I need on the track as it approaches the bridge? I am planning on using plywood for the slope on each end to give the track plenty of support.

Thanks for your help.

Beetle

[fiatfan]

Beetle

I would start the grade shortly after the track clears the bridge. This will give you the easiest grade and allow you to pull longer trains up the hill. This is true for both sides of the bridge. The down grade should start shortly after you cross the bridge and level out just before you go under the bridge. Allow a couple of car lenghts of straight track to reduce the chance of derailment going through the S curves.

Good luck!

Tom

[rlbeetle]

Thanks Tom,

Before I posted my question, I went to my lhs to see what he had. He had a box of used bridge tiers, different heights and some were angled for a incline and some were bridge tiers. He gave them to me so I used what I had, wired that section of track and tried it. The loco started up the incline and then started spinning it wheels. I knew right then I had way too steep of a slope. But it did not cost me anything and I learned something.

[cwclark]

Kalmbach has a publication called "Bridges and Trestles" which has just about every railroad bridge imaginable included within the pages...you might want to purchase this publication as it has very valuable information on building bridges...my layout has 1.5 % and 2% grades max...I also do a figure 8 that goes to three different levels...here is a pic of one of my bridges...click the arrows in this site and i have a few more pics of bridges http://community.webshots.com/photo/137793353/223356758NHLqSf ....chuck

[joecool1212]

Just purchased the book BRIDGES & TRESTLES. Great book !! I highly recomend it if you need a bridge from the smallest kit to the largest scratch built. Lots of pictures too. I need to add a few bridges and this book helped me pick them out and build them. Joe A.