Distance Between Tracks

[Anonymous]

I have been planning my railroad and am almost ready to start and was wondering what distance should I keep between tracks in a yard? (HO Scale) I am trying to get as many tracks as possible in 18". Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Jeff

[Anonymous]

I used 2 1/4" spacing, center to center, which is larger than prototypical. But it allows just enough room between cars on adjacent tracks for full size hands. I'd suggest laying out some tracks with different spacing to see what looks good and works well for you. Good luck and have fun!

[thirdrail1]

It's entirely up to you as far as spacing to permit reaching cars by hand, but the prototype distance between parallel tracks was 13 feet, centerline to centerline, for many years. Today, main lines are spaced up to 20 feet apart.

[Anonymous]

Hi Jeff,

If your tracks are 2 inches on center, you should be able to get at least 9 parallel tracks within 18 inches. I have 16 tracks in my yard, and it takes up over 2 1/2 feet of space. However, my tracks aren't exactly configured from a straight yard ladder. I have a humpyard, and each ladder is a separate 4-track group. You might experience a different amount of track for the space you have available. Good luck.

-Wolv33