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KATO "unit track" for my first layout...

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  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Northern CA Bay Area
  • 4,387 posts
Posted by cuyama on Tuesday, January 8, 2013 9:23 PM

Sorry aj1s, doesn't compute linearly for me based on experience and I wouldn't want you to waste any more of your time on me.

BrianinBuffalo
 I guess Saturday if I am able to mock up the track we will see what happens

That's a viable approach. The other would be to work on a new design that increases the likelihood of reliable operation based on best practices by eliminating as many s-curves as possible and broadening radii where you can, especially on grades. At the same time, you could work in more operating interest, if desired.

Either way, best of luck with your project, I'm sure you'll work it out.

  • Member since
    December 2012
  • 72 posts
Posted by aj1s on Tuesday, January 8, 2013 9:33 PM

BrianinBuffalo

you guys have me really confused.  I guess Saturday if I am able to mock up the track we will see what happens.  Now I am scared nothing will work Broken Heart

Brian,

I don't have any long (~80') passenger cars. I do have several 6 axle diesels and 60'+ freight cars. I have not had any operational problems with straight-curve transitions down to 9.75" in Kato Unitrack. I have not tried anything less. I have had lots of 19" radius S curves (9.5" equivalent straight-curve transition) with no problems. The train does not necessarily look great going over them, but no problems operating.

The really great thing about Unitrack is that it is so easy to mock up different track arrangements and try them out with your own equipment. 

Andy

  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: Northern CA Bay Area
  • 4,387 posts
Posted by cuyama on Wednesday, January 9, 2013 11:10 AM

Glad it's working for you. You might try backing through the s-curves, too -- that's usually the tougher test. Have fun!

  • Member since
    December 2012
  • 72 posts
Posted by aj1s on Thursday, January 10, 2013 9:02 PM

Great news!

But like Cuyama said, backing up (pushing the cars, uphill if possible), through trouble spots is a more stressing test. 

Above all, have fun!

Andy

  • Member since
    February 2002
  • From: Mpls/St.Paul
  • 13,892 posts
Posted by wjstix on Friday, January 11, 2013 8:26 AM

BrianinBuffalo

Unfortunately the #6 switches are power routing but I read somewhere how I can fix that.

The HO ones have a screw in the bottom and two holes. Moving the screw from the one it's in to the other changes it to non-power routing. I'd guess the N ones work the same?? Usually the instructions are printed on the cardboard backing of the blister pack the turnout came in, or you can check www.katousa.com.

Stix
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, January 11, 2013 9:41 AM

wjstix

BrianinBuffalo

Unfortunately the #6 switches are power routing but I read somewhere how I can fix that.

I'd guess the N ones work the same?? Usually the instructions are printed on the cardboard backing of the blister pack the turnout came in, or you can check www.katousa.com.

Yes, exactly the same!

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