chadbag
Well-Known Member
Doesn’t this make the effective space needed for a curve even greater?
Running Bear's June 2026 Coffee Shop
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If you have a copy of "Track planning for realistic operations" it explains it in much greater detail.
Don't remember where I read it but it stated it was the most underutilized tool in model railroading.
Don't know why that quote has always stuck with me. Another one I always remember and stick to is: every piece of track should be
soldered to something weather that be a rail joiner or a feeder. These two pieces of advice have served me well.
When I went back to look if it had posted it wasn't loading. Now I see it.
katousa.com
What I see of the Kato parts is that they are easing out of a canted track.
I've used different radius track pieces before, not for the purpose of easement but just to make the ends meet, before I found the expanding pieces.
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migalyto
Well-Known Member
Did you look at the diagram I posted?
If you have a copy of "Track planning for realistic operations" it explains it in much greater detail.
chadbag
Well-Known Member
If you’re paying some sort of equipment rental fee make sure any battery related one gets removed from the bill.
chadbag
Well-Known Member
I did after I posted that. And left follow up question.
migalyto
Well-Known Member
Its a negligible amount of extra space needed. Your only offsetting the straight track by a 1/2" or so.
Don't remember where I read it but it stated it was the most underutilized tool in model railroading.
Don't know why that quote has always stuck with me. Another one I always remember and stick to is: every piece of track should be
soldered to something weather that be a rail joiner or a feeder. These two pieces of advice have served me well.
chadbag
Well-Known Member
My daughter’s humanitarian project group left Nepal yesterday and got to Japan last night. Also a long day. Kathmandu to Singapore. About 4.5-5 hours. Some sort of layover in Singapore. Then a flight in the 7-8 hour range (from memory) to Tokyo.
Their tour leaders have posted a few photos of the layover and then arriving in Japan — at the “Welcome to Japan” sign and then at a 7-11. And a pic of their hostel. Sleeping on futons on the floor.
Tomorrow they visit the LDS Tokyo Japan temple and then some sight seeing. My SisIL is hoping to see her at the temple. She volunteers time there and took off work to go see her. Tomorrow afternoon I don’t know what they’ll see but previous groups went to Asakusa. Tomorrow night they leave Japan for LAX. And due to the wonders of crossing the international date line, per the clock they’ll land at LAX before they’ve left Japan. Then a wait and an early evening Delta flight to home.
I’m excited to hear about it. We’ve been getting some pics the group leaders have been taking and
posting to a group Google Photos album but that’s all we’ve heard. As I mentioned earlier they go on a “digital detox fast” when they go on this trip. No phones. She’ll get her phone back at LAX.
Their tour leaders have posted a few photos of the layover and then arriving in Japan — at the “Welcome to Japan” sign and then at a 7-11. And a pic of their hostel. Sleeping on futons on the floor.
Tomorrow they visit the LDS Tokyo Japan temple and then some sight seeing. My SisIL is hoping to see her at the temple. She volunteers time there and took off work to go see her. Tomorrow afternoon I don’t know what they’ll see but previous groups went to Asakusa. Tomorrow night they leave Japan for LAX. And due to the wonders of crossing the international date line, per the clock they’ll land at LAX before they’ve left Japan. Then a wait and an early evening Delta flight to home.
I’m excited to hear about it. We’ve been getting some pics the group leaders have been taking and
posting to a group Google Photos album but that’s all we’ve heard. As I mentioned earlier they go on a “digital detox fast” when they go on this trip. No phones. She’ll get her phone back at LAX.
migalyto
Well-Known Member
I wasn't sure if with the wonkieness the forum has been experiencing if it would show up for everyone!
When I went back to look if it had posted it wasn't loading. Now I see it.
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Bruette
Well-Known Member
Good afternoon!
Just checking in. I do try and keep up with much of what is going on, but i find it can be uncomfortable to sit for any length of time at my desk. And Willie is right; the forum can be a PIA, but it is still the best and my only social media.
I just finished watching last night's Orioles - Angles game. It takes me some time and several sittings between naps and moving about. I also managed to change the oil and do a quick preventive maintenance check on our Equinox after work this morning. Our 2020 Equinox is still going strong at just under 215,000 miles. She averaged 30.4mpg over the last 5000 miles since the last oil change and the oil pressure is a steady 28psi at idle after running all morning and before changing the oil. This is the vehicle we use to deliver packages for Amazon.
Now back to baseball! - Last night's game was not the outcome i had hoped for. I was looking for it to be the Orioles 4th straight victory, but it didn't happen. However, I did get to see a young pitcher, Ryan Johnson, record his first quality start in the MLB, 6IP, 0-runs, 1-hit, 1-BB and 8-Ks. I only wish he hadn't done it against my Birds. Regardless, I'm happy for the young man and happy that i got to see it!
Ryan' numbers were awful coming into this game. In his previous two starts he had trouble finding the strike zone, not so last night. Ryan threw 15 first pitch strikes last night! Pitching ahead is one of the keys to successful pitching.
It is interesting to note the Angels drafted Ryan with the compensation draft pick they received when Ohtani signed with the Dodgers. The Angels might have gotten a top-of-the-rotation starter in return.
Ryan went straight from the 2024 MLB Draft to the Major Leagues on the Opening Day 2025 roster. Only 24 players in MLB history have ever done that. He began his MLB career in the bullpen. He has since spent some time in the minors stretching out to be a starting pitcher. This was his third start of his MLB career. He’s not overpowering, but he doesn’t need to be, his strengths are his command, movement and pitch sequencing. He doesn't have one devastating pitch; he has an assortment of five above average pitches. He has a lot of potential; he is listed as the #2 prospect in the Angels organization.
Ryan Johnson’s unusual windup and delivery make him tricky to read and tough for the hitter to time. At 6'6" he looks like all arms and legs, with exceptional extension. Making it tough to find his release point. Combined with his arm angle it all adds up to keeping hitters off balance and puts a unique spin on his pitches. He may not have elite velocity, but his extension adds 2-3mph.
Okay, have you had enough of baseball?
Have a good night, Everybody!
Go O's!
Just checking in. I do try and keep up with much of what is going on, but i find it can be uncomfortable to sit for any length of time at my desk. And Willie is right; the forum can be a PIA, but it is still the best and my only social media.
I just finished watching last night's Orioles - Angles game. It takes me some time and several sittings between naps and moving about. I also managed to change the oil and do a quick preventive maintenance check on our Equinox after work this morning. Our 2020 Equinox is still going strong at just under 215,000 miles. She averaged 30.4mpg over the last 5000 miles since the last oil change and the oil pressure is a steady 28psi at idle after running all morning and before changing the oil. This is the vehicle we use to deliver packages for Amazon.
Now back to baseball! - Last night's game was not the outcome i had hoped for. I was looking for it to be the Orioles 4th straight victory, but it didn't happen. However, I did get to see a young pitcher, Ryan Johnson, record his first quality start in the MLB, 6IP, 0-runs, 1-hit, 1-BB and 8-Ks. I only wish he hadn't done it against my Birds. Regardless, I'm happy for the young man and happy that i got to see it!
Ryan' numbers were awful coming into this game. In his previous two starts he had trouble finding the strike zone, not so last night. Ryan threw 15 first pitch strikes last night! Pitching ahead is one of the keys to successful pitching.
It is interesting to note the Angels drafted Ryan with the compensation draft pick they received when Ohtani signed with the Dodgers. The Angels might have gotten a top-of-the-rotation starter in return.
Ryan went straight from the 2024 MLB Draft to the Major Leagues on the Opening Day 2025 roster. Only 24 players in MLB history have ever done that. He began his MLB career in the bullpen. He has since spent some time in the minors stretching out to be a starting pitcher. This was his third start of his MLB career. He’s not overpowering, but he doesn’t need to be, his strengths are his command, movement and pitch sequencing. He doesn't have one devastating pitch; he has an assortment of five above average pitches. He has a lot of potential; he is listed as the #2 prospect in the Angels organization.
Ryan Johnson’s unusual windup and delivery make him tricky to read and tough for the hitter to time. At 6'6" he looks like all arms and legs, with exceptional extension. Making it tough to find his release point. Combined with his arm angle it all adds up to keeping hitters off balance and puts a unique spin on his pitches. He may not have elite velocity, but his extension adds 2-3mph.
Okay, have you had enough of baseball?
Have a good night, Everybody!
Go O's!
kbkchooch
Verified Human
Good afternoon gang!
Just came back from taking the grandkids to a waterpark. Left here about 8 o’clock this morning. Got there about 930 stayed till about one and then drove an hour and a half back to their home. Grandpa is toasted, but we all did have fun.
As far as easements are concerned, they are the primary reason why I built my new layout using spline road bed that leaves a natural easement as you install the splines.
The technique for this I learned from the master, Mr. Howard Zane. I’m certain there’s still a YouTube video up somewhere showing how Howard does his spline . Yes your curves do start sooner, but that’s the magic of the easement that lets longer equipment glide through the turn instead of being thrown to one side as you get into the turn.
BBL , Time to take the Granddaughter to cheer practice.
Just came back from taking the grandkids to a waterpark. Left here about 8 o’clock this morning. Got there about 930 stayed till about one and then drove an hour and a half back to their home. Grandpa is toasted, but we all did have fun.
As far as easements are concerned, they are the primary reason why I built my new layout using spline road bed that leaves a natural easement as you install the splines.
The technique for this I learned from the master, Mr. Howard Zane. I’m certain there’s still a YouTube video up somewhere showing how Howard does his spline . Yes your curves do start sooner, but that’s the magic of the easement that lets longer equipment glide through the turn instead of being thrown to one side as you get into the turn.
BBL , Time to take the Granddaughter to cheer practice.
Last edited:
montanan
Whiskey Merchant
I'm back. Holy Moley, twice in the same day. I didn't have to go too far. Met my friends ride at the state line. He was needing a ride to Spokane and we were going to meet his ride at sand point but the ride got an early start.
The LED light strip did come in. It's narrow enough to mount on the back of the shelf above the layout (?) at the front. The strip is a bit over a quarter of an inch wide.
I think it was $14.95.
Marlin39 - Thanks for the leads on the hobby shops. It has been so long since I needed to order and train items that I couldn't pemember and except the one that is apparently out of business.
Mike - Thanks for the names of the suppliers.
Troy - Should have called and saif "Fix It Again, Tony". Mine had a few rough edges. This Fiat was passed down from guys being transferred off the ship to someone that wanted it. It wasn't the best maintained. I will have to admit that I really didn't miss it when I got the BMW. The trip back from Munich to Gaeta, Italy was one of the best drives that I had in Europe. Having brakes that worked made the trip better. The Fiat didn't have the best brakes.
Trying to get a list together for what I need. The flex track is code 83. Probably will need one turnout and one section of flex track and rail joiners. Will need ballast and ground cover. Will probably go with Woodland Scenics. A couple of structures and if I can find sone sage brush, I can make some trees. I still have a few vehicles and100 or so and plenty of freight cars. I still have some detail items somewhere that I'll have to look for. Even if I can't run any trains, I can still build a mini scene. The layout shelf can be easily lifted out so working on it won't be a problem.
\Here are some more photos.
Willie probably knows a few of these.
LATER
The LED light strip did come in. It's narrow enough to mount on the back of the shelf above the layout (?) at the front. The strip is a bit over a quarter of an inch wide.
I think it was $14.95.Marlin39 - Thanks for the leads on the hobby shops. It has been so long since I needed to order and train items that I couldn't pemember and except the one that is apparently out of business.
Mike - Thanks for the names of the suppliers.
Troy - Should have called and saif "Fix It Again, Tony". Mine had a few rough edges. This Fiat was passed down from guys being transferred off the ship to someone that wanted it. It wasn't the best maintained. I will have to admit that I really didn't miss it when I got the BMW. The trip back from Munich to Gaeta, Italy was one of the best drives that I had in Europe. Having brakes that worked made the trip better. The Fiat didn't have the best brakes.
Trying to get a list together for what I need. The flex track is code 83. Probably will need one turnout and one section of flex track and rail joiners. Will need ballast and ground cover. Will probably go with Woodland Scenics. A couple of structures and if I can find sone sage brush, I can make some trees. I still have a few vehicles and100 or so and plenty of freight cars. I still have some detail items somewhere that I'll have to look for. Even if I can't run any trains, I can still build a mini scene. The layout shelf can be easily lifted out so working on it won't be a problem.
\Here are some more photos.
Willie probably knows a few of these.
LATER
RhB Michael
RhB Lokführer
migalyto
Well-Known Member
Kato makes easement track.
790mm (31 1/8") Radius 22.5* CT Easement Track Left + Right - Kato USA Online Store
Kato’s line of UNITRACK offers a variety of pieces and turnouts to allow you to build any layout your heart desires, all while ensuring track quality and steady delivery of electricity to your locomotives. Available both as individual pieces and as track sets! The UniJoiner is the basis for...
katousa.com
Kusojiji
RANK AMATEURS OF THE MODEL RAILROAD FORM MEMBER
santafewillie
Same Ol' Buzzard
kbkchooch
Verified Human
V
Goddamn robots!
Willie, I’ve seen that message before. Had to log out and re-login to get past it.
Goddamn robots!
migalyto
Well-Known Member
I just keep hitting the refresh and it eventually will go away and load.
Kusojiji
RANK AMATEURS OF THE MODEL RAILROAD FORM MEMBER
That looks like they are using the word easement differently? From what I've been reading in this thread, easement is a slowly increasing radius curve to either merge into a mainline or just to make a lazier S-curve to go straight.Kato makes easement track.
790mm (31 1/8") Radius 22.5* CT Easement Track Left + Right - Kato USA Online Store
Kato’s line of UNITRACK offers a variety of pieces and turnouts to allow you to build any layout your heart desires, all while ensuring track quality and steady delivery of electricity to your locomotives. Available both as individual pieces and as track sets! The UniJoiner is the basis for...
What I see of the Kato parts is that they are easing out of a canted track.
I've used different radius track pieces before, not for the purpose of easement but just to make the ends meet, before I found the expanding pieces.
RhB Michael
RhB Lokführer
Kusojiji
RANK AMATEURS OF THE MODEL RAILROAD FORM MEMBER
Typhoon? What typhoon? I guess they aren't going to be as bad as guessed (maybe I just jinxed it). Either way, nothing on the tube as all the story telling is about the 7.2 earthquake up north. Happened around 0730 and luckily, no tsunami warning. But, every channel is making their money's worth out of it. If they ain't talking about the typhoon or Otani, then it's the earthquake.
Ground is wet, no wind, and all is good ATT.
Ground is wet, no wind, and all is good ATT.
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