Newbie here. I'm trying to design a layout in HO and am presently limited
to about 5' x 8'. Most of the "small" layouts I've seen seem to rely
heavily on 18" radius curves and #4 turnouts. Yet, I read here and other
sources that #4 and even #6 turnbouts should be avoided. I don't plan on
anything longer than perhaps 60' rolling stock and will probably go diesel
although I haven't narrowed it further. I'd probably go with Atlas code 83
and use 22" radius where possible but 18" seems inevitable in places.
Mostly turnouts more gentle than #4 seem to really limit flexibility. I'd
appreciate any opinions.
- posted 17 years ago