Hi,
We are trying to configure a layout under a christmas tree, the board is 4' x'4 '.
Can you advise what type of layout is possibe and the numbers of straight and curved tracks that are needed.
thank you
Suds -
Are you talking HO or a different size? And how big of a loco will you have?
If HO, 22" radius would give you a circle - 22R+22R=44+2=46". That leaves 1" on all sides from the edge of the board.
With 18" radius, you could have a square - 18R+18R+4.5S+3S=43.5+2=45.5. That leaves 1.25" on all sides from the edge of the board. Eliminating either the 4.5" straight or the 3" straight on two sides would give you an oval.
Bachmann EZ- Track would work well, and probably be your best bet. For simpler track configurations, either a 18" Radius circle, or a 22" radius circle would work for your space.
If you go with an 18" circle, you will need twelve 18" radius curves.
If you go with a 22" circle, you will need sixteen 22" radius curves.
If you have a small enough loco and cars, you could try 15" radius. A 15" radius circle would be 32" wide and you would have 8" on each side. For the circle you would need twelve 15" radius curves.
You could add a 9" straight and a 3" straight for 12 inches.
That would leave you with 2" on each side. 32+12=44" wide
If you do an oval with 15", you will also need 2 pieces of both 9" and 3" straight or you can can use either the 9" or 3".
For a square you need four 9" and 3".
For the 18" oval or square it is the same number of pieces with 4.5" and 3" instead of 9" and 3".