N scale layout plan using Kato Unitrack

ccaranna Oct 30, 2012

  1. ccaranna

    ccaranna TrainBoard Member

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    I posted this in the N Scale layout design discussion group, but thought maybe it would get more views here, so here it goes:

    I started a new N scale layout using the AnyRail trial version for design. I'm using the frame of an old college dorm bed as the base and have 3" of Styrofoam for the base. This plan is basically a folded oval with a couple and over/under points. My concern is if I'll have enough room to get the inclines 2" over each other. I haven't mastered the elevation tool on AnyRail yet to determine this. Does this plan look like it will work? I don't mind 4% grades to accomplish my elevations.

    http://www.trainboard.com/grapevine/...chmentid=48799


    Thanks,
    Chuck
     
  2. ccaranna

    ccaranna TrainBoard Member

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    Here's a link of the plan that should work; please disregard the other one. The first link has been removed and probably wasn't possible to view.

    Please note I am planning a couple changes/additions:


    • Add a spur into the center of the layout off the left side of the inner track located at the bottom of plan
    • Change the bridge at the bottom to the Kato plate girder bridge
    • The hidden track segments are subject to fluctuation once scenery starts

    I couldn't add all of the track I wanted since the trial version of AnyRail only allows a maximum of 50 pieces.
     

    Attached Files:

  3. RBrodzinsky

    RBrodzinsky November 18, 2022 Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter In Memoriam

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    You will "mind" 4% grades once you start running, depending on your equipment. You could be ok, with a little bit of tweaking, but the beauty of Unitrack is you can set up the basics, and see how it runs before committing.
     
  4. Seated Viper

    Seated Viper TrainBoard Member

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    What reference number were you thinking you might use for the pointwork? My own experience is that Kato 6 is FAR better than Kato 4 if you have the room. The spacing between tracks is greater, but the device is a lot more reliable in that you won't get as many derailments.

    Regards,

    Pete Davies
     
  5. ccaranna

    ccaranna TrainBoard Member

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    By pointwork do you mean the turnouts? They are all No. 6. Strangely enough the Kato 6s are less expensive than the 4s.

    As far as the grades, I believe 3% grades will work with my plan.
     
  6. Seated Viper

    Seated Viper TrainBoard Member

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    Yes, I use the term pointwork. Others call them turnouts, and others call them switches . . .

    Regards,

    Pete Davies
     
  7. Jeepy84

    Jeepy84 TrainBoard Member

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    I'm guessing this is a "watch trains run" type layout. With that in mind, what type of equipment are you planning to run? I ask because of the grades and curve radii. The effect of a curve is that it artificially raises the strain on equipment on a grade, and long trains succumb to it more readily.
    Also, not certain what the bridge in the lower portion of the plan is for, but you may consider moving it into the middle of that straight segment instead of being at the end of the curve, lest long equipment (if you're running any), may hang up on the inside bridge girder.
    As Rick pointed out however, the beauty of Unitrack is you can experiment with configurations and run trains on them without commitment.
     
  8. ccaranna

    ccaranna TrainBoard Member

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    Definitely a watch and run layout. I've got a 6-axle locomotive, but I'm not planning on running any cars that are more than 50'. Passenger and double stack trains are not being considered, and train lengths will be a conservative 8 or 9 cars. I was concerned about the the steep grades on the curves, but I'll have to see how it works out once I get the inclines up and running. I'm still working out the calculations and estimations. The tricky part is where the grades cross each other since one is climbing and the other is descending when they cross. I planned for those spots to be covered by scenery, so if there are any unrealistic low looking clearances at least they won't be visible.
     

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