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Hi guys! After I build my home addition this summer, I will be getting back into HO scale model railroading, and I am sure I will have MANY questions for y'all as I build my layout (overall size 30' X 25'). My first question -- what is a good minimum main line radius for HO scale? I will be running AMTRAK Superliner passenger trains, as well as some freight --for planning purposes, I am guessing 48" is a good minimum radius -- any thoughts on this?
Thanks -- Rich K
Challenger Member # 1298
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In my experience I think that a 48" Radius is a bit of an overkill. That makes an 8 foot diamerter circle of track. It is quite unneccissary unless you are operating brass articulated locomotives that require a much broader minimum radious than a model of the same locomotive in Plastic. I find for my personal asthetics that a 32-36" Minimum Radious is all that you will need to to maintain a good look for your longest cars as well as ensure reliable operation. On your freight equipment you can even chop the radious down to as low as 18" and still operate most cars reliably.
Mike Smith Member # 447
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I have a 2 engine, 12 car Superliner train that has 48" curves, although the E-Z Track says they're 35.5 inch curved track. I have it setting on 48" radius plywood about 83" off of the floor.
The train looks realistic traveling around my house. (about 100 feet of track)
Free clue: Do not put an S-curve in the system without at least a 6" straight track between the two curves. The train will uncouple every single time.... (and 83" is a long way for a car to fall...)
RRRICH Member # 1418
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Mike - thanks for the free clue!!! I may have one or two "S-curves" on my layout.
Roger Hensley Member # 1374
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Radius is meassured center of track to center of track and not from outside to outside.
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