SD40-2

[Cody J]

What is the minimum radius for a Bachmann SD40-2 to fit around a curve?

Thanks,
Cody J

[Yampa Bob]

From the Bachmann catalog:  "Performs best on 18" radius curves or greater".

[Cody J]

Thanks for the information.

-Cody

[jward]

while they will run on 18" radius, a locomotive that big can pull the adjacent cars off the track on turns that sharp. i'd go with 22" or 24" if you have the room. it will perform much better on wider radius turns.

[bobwrgt]

I have Bachmann, Broadway, and Athearn SD40-2's and all run just fine on 18in radius. Even the Kato sd38-2 is OK. 
They would look better on 22 or larger but I don't have room.
You may also try changing the rear coupler to a long shank  for better swing. I have one freight car with long shank at front of train and it works fine with all the 6 axel engines.

Bob

[Yampa Bob]

I run long six axle diesels on my 18" layout, never had a problem with pulling cars off the tracks, even at full throttle . The rear swingout is minimal, I'm still using the stock McHenry couplers that came on my Athearn models.

As for "appearance", that is up to each modeler's personal judgement, I think they look great on the curves, very little overhang.

[mf5117]

I run my B&N sd40-2 all day long , on 18" and 22" radius curves . just take it slow threw the switches . Keep the wheel trucks clean , they pick up alot of gunk.