QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Plan a helix
Q.
What is the smallest practical radius for a helix in N scale?
My layout plans include one, but I only have room for a small
radius. I am beginning to think a long ramp with a return loop
and a staging yard may be better. I will run mostly freight, usually
with two locos, and a maximum of 12 to 15 cars. Most of my cars
are 4" and my locos are mostly SD40-size six-axle types.
– Paul
A.
Prof Klyzlr scribbled a dazzling array of numbers and formulas
on the back of an old shopping bag and came up with the follow-
ing answers:
Radius – 15 ¼” curve radius. This is based on 130mm loco
length x 3 = 390mm curve radius. We may be able to go tighter,
Questions, Answers & Tips -
MRH-Mar 2013
