Can an HO scale 2-8-0 negotiate a 15" radius curve?

[C.H. Cobb]

My layout is an 1890's era railroad, HO scale. Due to space, I have some 15" radius curves (Yes, I know that's not wise). I have an 0-8-0 locomotive that negotiates them just fine, forwards and backwards. I also have a pair of 0-6-0's. My question is: can a 2-8-0 Consolidation handle those curves? Being on a limited budget, I don't want to purchase one only to find that it won't run on the track.
THanks in advance for your help and advice!

 

[C.H. Cobb]

My 0-8-0 does just fine. Before I purchase a 2-8-0, I'd like to know if it can handle the curve.

 

[bnsf971]

It all depends on who made the engine, and how large it is. There are some small connies out there, and there are some that are larger than a 2-8-2. The only real way to tell is to either get the one you want and try it, or see if anybody has the one you want, and ask them if it will negotiate 15".
Most "official" minimums show 18", even for the ones that will work on smaller curves.

 

[C.H. Cobb]

Thanks for your response!! I'm thinking Bachmann - I bought a pair of their 0-6-0s and love them. But I need more tractive power for a 3% grade. I've got my eye on a fully sound-equipped, stay-alive Bachmann 2-8-0.

 

[timlange3]

If it has blind drivers you have half a chance it will work. Does it?

 

[boatwrench]

My two Bachmann 2-8-0s do not have blind drivers, but I have not run them on anything smaller than 22r"

 

[dennis461]

Bachmann 2-8-0 handle 18" with ease. Want me to set up a test circle of 15"

 

[TheXModelRailroader]

Bachmann 2-8-0 handle 18" with ease. Want me to set up a test circle of 15"
View attachment 212714

Well that's nice of you. Nice model.

 

[TheXModelRailroader]

So, I got to agree with bnsf971 (Unless dennis461 can help you) I would try to go to a train show or store that would allow you to test it. Heck! You might even find other models that will work for you!

 

[John from Indiana]

The Roundhouse 2-8-0 should make it...It's out of stock and it's a kit; but not to difficult

 

[C.H. Cobb]

Bachmann 2-8-0 handle 18" with ease. Want me to set up a test circle of 15"
View attachment 212714

That would be awesome! Thanks so much! If you have some shorter rolling stock I'd love to know if it can back up on a 15" radius without derailng the cars.

 

[C.H. Cobb]

If it has blind drivers you have half a chance it will work. Does it?

I'm pretty much a newbie, even though I have a pretty decent layout. What are blind drivers?

 

[timlange3]

I'm pretty much a newbie, even though I have a pretty decent layout. What are blind drivers?

Blind drivers are driving wheels without a flange so there is more sideways movement allowed. Mainly to negotiate tight curves.

 

[trailrider]

Blind drivers are driving wheels without a flange so there is more sideways movement allowed. Mainly to negotiate tight curves.

Some longer wheelbase prototype steam locomotives also had them.

 

[AstroKnight]

My layout is an 1890's era railroad, HO scale. Due to space, I have some 15" radius curves (Yes, I know that's not wise). I have an 0-8-0 locomotive that negotiates them just fine, forwards and backwards. I also have a pair of 0-6-0's. My question is: can a 2-8-0 Consolidation handle those curves? Being on a limited budget, I don't want to purchase one only to find that it won't run on the track.
THanks in advance for your help and advice!

My granddads BLI 2-8-0 handles 18” just fine, but 15” might be a stretch