Bachmann Online Forum

Discussion Boards => HO => Topic started by: yuri on October 05, 2008, 09:48:02 PM

Title: help with track layout
Post by: yuri on October 05, 2008, 09:48:02 PM
I am trying to layout an ho scale track around my soons room and am having difficulty making the track fit at the corners. where can I find a tool to calculate the correct pieces to fit at these corners
Title: Re: help with track layout
Post by: LooseClu on October 06, 2008, 02:10:07 AM
There is a freeware track planning software program that uses Atlas track that would allow you to figure how to lay track in those corners.  Try this web site:  <http://www.winrail.com>  They will sell you an updated version but will also allow you to download the free version.  Its a simple program that will allow you to play with track design right away- its easy and you don't even have to read a manual before you get going (of course if all else fails.... there is an adequate  instructional program included).  When you get the design down, a simple push of a button will list everything you need in the way of track items to build what you've just designed.  It does not have all the bells and whistles of the their latest updated version but it is fun to play with and will show you what radius of curve will fit into how much space.  If I had a nickel for every layout I've designed on that software I could have bought their retail version by now.
Title: Re: help with track layout
Post by: pdlethbridge on October 06, 2008, 06:04:26 AM
This is free and works great:
http://www.atlasrr.com/righttrack.htm (http://www.atlasrr.com/righttrack.htm)
Title: Re: help with track layout
Post by: Running Bear on October 06, 2008, 08:58:35 AM
Great isn't the word for it. I've used it as an aid for planning additions to my own layout.
Title: Re: help with track layout
Post by: pdlethbridge on October 06, 2008, 09:12:25 AM
Okay, is stupendous better?
Title: Re: help with track layout
Post by: Running Bear on October 06, 2008, 10:01:44 AM
Yes.
Title: Re: help with track layout
Post by: Joe Satnik on October 06, 2008, 10:35:01 AM
Dear Yuri,

You start with a certain radius curve track and fashion (custom cut) the corner shelf pieces to that radius & the width of your shelf.  So...

How wide are your shelves? (Actual measurement, nearest sixteenth of an inch.)  What type of material? 

Will there be a gap between the shelf and the wall?  (eg. shelf brace thickness)  If so, how much?

How far from the wall do you want the center line of your track?

What radius curves do you want to use?

Have you thought of adding a siding or sidings, or a double main line?

What make and style of track are you using?

Also, please confirm that it is HO track we're talking about here.   (Posting in the wrong sub-forum has happened before.)

Thanks.

Sincerely,

Joe Satnik