Joe,
There are a few key items with grades
1. The up sloping transition from flat to climbing, the down sloping transition from climbing to flat again, the actual climbing portion itself. All three combine to a ruling grade. Be certain that you don't have long cars/locos that can get bottomed out, uncoupled or have other issues with the transition areas.
2. Logging RRs had up to 10% grades or more. I think the Saluda grade average is 5.4% and it's a mainline class 1 grade, they had to break trains down to take them up and down the hill. Typical mainline class 1 is 2% or less.
3. So, it's up to you and what you want to model.
4. Note that steamers aren't as good as diesels (similar size) for pulling trains up grades. You can get more weight on the drivers with HO model diesels. Of course you can always add traction tires, but to me that's cheating--lol.
I forgot to add that we have done 4% grades with minimal curvature and had no problems with pulling 6 or less cars. This was a mountain scene for rail canons.
Richard
That's a little high for routine running. Combine the grade with the sharp curves and you won't be able to run much more than an engine and a car or two. The general wisdom is to limit your grades to 2% or less. There have been several good threads recently on maximum grades. Check them out via the search function. Some good information.
Joe
Hi I have been intrigued by Woodland scenics incline system. Yesterday I purchased a couple small boxes from Hobby store took get a feel of the product. Im confident that with the proper material I might finally build an elevated railroad that my trailers will stay with the engine and my track will not faulter.
Has anyone tried a 4% grade? It elevates the track from 0" to 4" in 8 ft.
Is that too high too fast for HO trains. I am not using any18" radius only 22 and 24" and several straight pcs. on an 5x9 somewhat oval track.
Thanks for your help. Chitty