Track Spacing

[jjsjjs]

What is the recommended safe centerline spacing between track.   I have some 18" radius curves and while I don't operate any long equipment, I don't want to have any problems with overhangs on curves.

Thanks,

jack

[jeffrey-wimberly]

I don't know the exact recommendations but I use 2 1/2" as a minimum.

[orsonroy]

On straight track areas, 1-3/4" is about to scale. But our fat fingers are generally unable to reach between two boxcars on track spaced that closely, so 2" or 2-1/4" is usually a good compromise, with up to 2-1/2" in yards (which we reach into more often). On curves the spacing really depends on the longest equipment you've got. Use two on parallel tracks to check for sideswiping problems, and gauge the center spacing from that (give yourself up to 1/4" of tolerance).

[Texas Zepher]

On straight track areas, 1-3/4" is about to scale. But our fat fingers are generally unable to reach between two boxcars on track spaced that closely, so 2" or 2-1/4" is usually a good compromise, with up to 2-1/2" in yards (which we reach into more often). On curves the spacing really depends on the longest equipment you've got. Use two on parallel tracks to check for sideswiping problems, and gauge the center spacing from that (give yourself up to 1/4" of tolerance).

What he said. I had a double track layout once with 15" on the inside loop and 18" on the outside so the centers were 3".   Our club runs the 2 1/4" but that is because of our fat fingers. I run 2" centers on our modular units, but the minimum radius on a corner is 36".    The length of your equipment will make a huge difference on what you need.  Why not just layout a corner and run the equipment through to see what happens.

[Virginian]

Everything you always wanted to know, right here:

http://www.nmra.org/

[johncolley]

For the folks with larger curves looking for realistic appearance: Passing Sidings and A/D tracks were generally 16' to 20' centers to allow carmen with tool boxes to perform necessary work, inspections, hoses, brake shoes, etc. Yard and industrial tracks were often down around 13', which would be an absolute minimum. jc5729 John Colley, port Townsend, WA