24" radius question

[jaltbaum]

So, in reevaluating my layout concept I have come to a possible conclusion that I may only have 24" in which to allow a 180 degree turn for my tracks. Can "N" scale make proper turns with only 24" (12" radius)?

 

[jbaakko]

Hey a San Diego modeler! Welcome (not sure if I missed your welcome message). I don't know much about N, but it seems viable, I think I remember people doing 10" Radius.

 

[mistressmotorsports]

Yes, 12" will work. I run 11 inch radius on some of my 180 degree turns with no problems. There might be some long steam engines that have trouble (I've seen some Bachman 4-8-2's derail, there may be some others) but most will work. My RR is populated with Kato 2-8-2 Mikados, Bachman 2-8-0 Connies, and a bunch of 4 axle diesels that all work fine. Some of my long passenger cars look a little goofy going around the tight corners, but they work just fine. As far as looks, if you stay with shorter engines and cars, they will still look good. Have fun and good luck.

Mike

 

[MRLdave]

you didn't mention why you only had 24".......11 inch radius will work OK for almost all n scale equipment, but if 24 is your table size, that will put your track very close to the edge , and you run the risk of losing things to the floor in case of derailments. If you go tighter than 11, the list of equpment that will operate will get much shorter.

 

[pcarrell]

Jaltbaum, any thoughts on running 10"r with easements? You don't have to run quite so close to the edge, and tight curves work much better with easements. You could also super-elevate the curves a little to help, and that would add some "heft" to the look of your trains as well.

Mike, if you want to run heavyweight passenger cars that look decent on tighter curves, might I suggest some of the old Bachmann Harriman cars. With new wheelsets they work great, and at 60 scale feet they don't look bad at all on tighter curves.