what turnouts would you use if you where running a 4-8-4s ?
4014-
I'd like to use nothing smaller than No. 6 turnouts, though I guess they'll handle No. 4 if the speed is kept within reason.
-- D
It depends largely on the Model, Different Manufacturers Make different Models with different tolerances for curves and turnouts. The Largest Locomotive I currently run, the Bachmann 2-8-4, Will handle #5 turnouts and 18 inch curves, these are the tightest I've tested on it, as well as an older 4-8-4 from the Days when Locomotives did 0 OR 400MPH
Bachmann and Athearn Models Tend to have greater tolerances, Though I agree that a #6 would be better, a #5 should be fine, I don't know about a #4, never tried or seen it. If you are using other manufactures, especially High end Brass, The tolerances on those Locomotives are usually much lower and you will not be able to go below #6 for many of them, in some cases that will be tight too.
Quote from: union pacific 4014 on July 08, 2014, 09:22:37 PM
what turnouts would you use if you where running a 4-8-4s ?
Steam Loco's need a fairly large turnout than diesel loco's... I had 2 Steam Locos for my 16ft long x 6ft wide HO DCC layout... I wound up giving my Steam Loco's to my Local train hobby shop to sell on consignment... My Steam Loco's would bind up around my turn's... I built my Layout turnouts for my diesel loco's... So just make sure to make your turn outs pretty large...
As you already know, #5 and #6 are your good choices.
I would be careful if you have 18 degree radius curves as well!
Cheers,
Joshua
The 4-8-4 UP overland requires 22" radius curves as a minimum . John2.
yes they do Jhanecker2 i have 4-8-4's and none of them like 18'' radius curves i run all 22'' radius curves i plan on making a bigger layout and run 34''radius curves
Good Morning all,
I have never had much luck with larger engines like a 4-8-4 on any turnout smaller than a #6 unless it was articulated.
Quote from: ebtbob on July 20, 2014, 09:56:54 AM
Good Morning all,
I have never had much luck with larger engines like a 4-8-4 on any turnout smaller than a #6 unless it was articulated.
I agree. But then again I don't use anything smaller than a number six switch, except a number 3 wye but that's the same as a number six anyway. :)
Cheers
Roger T.