N gauge oval

[micro_modeller]

Hi with me being new to n gauge modelling and I like micro layouts. I am planning to build the smallest oval layout with one siding. I know I can use a wired straight and one point for the straight section but I always get confused with curves. If any kind forum member can help and explain what curves I will need and how many baring in mind I am going to use Peco code 80 track.

[ntpntpntp]

How micro is micro?  What theme and what type of locos and stock are you considering?

Typical minimum radius for N is usually considered to be 9". Some larger locos can need something a bit more generous such as 11"-12".  You can go tighter than 9" with short locos and stock but it begins to look odd unless you're modelling something like a tram system.

When you go down toward the minimum radius then you can find flexi track starts to become tricky to work with, and using fixed Setrack pieces are easier to get a consistent curve.

[Newportnobby]

To be honest this is one for Peco set track, I think. Being a micro layout all your locos are likely to be small so won't have problems on radius 1 (9" radius) curves but might have stalling issues on a set track point. You will require 8 pieces of ST-12.

[micro_modeller]

Thanks for the advice. The locos I will be using are class 03 and 04 diesel shunters so quite small. The siding will be used for goods shunting. I always use set track code 80 but I am open to advice if there is another track I can use.

[port perran]

You'll be fine with those shunters using 9inch radioys curves.
And the short set track points (ST 5 and 6) should be ok as long as you don't allow any crud to build up right by the plastic frog (otherwise those small shunters will stall at slow speed). If you keep that track and the loco wheels clean you should be ok.
What size is this layout going to be please?

[Newportnobby]

I always use set track code 80 but I am open to advice if there is another track I can use.

An alternative might be Kato Unitrack where you could possibly get away with their 8½" radius track with a #4 point and the required straights (see brochure attached). The track can be disguised to hide the plastic ballast shoulder and the points look expensive but contain pieces of straight track, have built in polarity switching and are easily motorised.

[micro_modeller]

If I'm needing 8 curves and a couple of straight I'm presuming my layout will be no longer than two and a half feet.

[AlexanderJesse]

I have used traxeditor.com to quickly sketch the ovals using Peco set track and Kato. Both fit on a 600x500 mm (about 24x20 ") baseboard (although with minimal space on the outside...)

You can see the track-piece numbers in the image. Upper layout is Peco, lower is Kato

[Papyrus]

Another alternative might be Minitrix radius 1 which is 20cm radius and is compatible with Peco, unlike Kato, and is still available.

I have half a circle and a LH point which are surplus to requirements. PM me if you are interested.

Cheers,

Chris

[micro_modeller]

Alexander that is the layout I am trying to explain and model. The best part is you have also put the track to use.

[PostModN66]

Why not use a Code 80 Streamline point with electrofrog to reduce the stalling issue?

The only consideration is that you would need to make up the length of the straight on the other side; Anyrail is on my other computer so I can't check whether a combination of small SetTrack straights make up the length of the smallest Streamline point.

Cheers

Jon 

[dannyboy]

I would agree with Mick, (newportnobby), in reply #5, apart from the fact that the points are motorised. If you do not use the Kato controller, which comes with a 12v DC output, all you neeed is a 12v DC supply and the Kato point switcher. If you want to PM me, I can let you have a point switcher for the cost of postage from Ireland - having said that, it might be cheaper to buy one!  .  Have a look at Traintrax for Kato bits, he advertises on the forum - a nice bloke and quick posting.

http://www.traintrax.co.uk

[AlexanderJesse]

Why not use a Code 80 Streamline point with electrofrog to reduce the stalling issue?

The only consideration is that you would need to make up the length of the straight on the other side; Anyrail is on my other computer so I can't check whether a combination of small SetTrack straights make up the length of the smallest Streamline point.

Cheers

Jon 

The only to make that work is to use a piece of code-80 flextrack. with the Settrack pieces it is not possible to combine to the length of one of the two code-80-turnouts

[Railwaygun]

I always use set track code 80 but I am open to advice if there is another track I can use.

An alternative might be Kato Unitrack where you could possibly get away with their 8½" radius track with a #4 point and the required straights (see brochure attached). The track can be disguised to hide the plastic ballast shoulder and the points look expensive but contain pieces of straight track, have built in polarity switching and are easily motorised.

All Kato points contain built in point motors, And very simple 2 wire / plug systems for solderless connections.

Starter sets of track/ PSU / points are readily available from Train TRax / Osbornes.

Unitrack info here:
http://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=7079.0

[Lawrence]

Another alternative might be Minitrix radius 1 which is 20cm radius and is compatible with Peco, unlike Kato, and is still available.

I have half a circle and a LH point which are surplus to requirements. PM me if you are interested.

Cheers,

Chris

Not entirely true Chris, you can always use the Kato 20-045 conversion track sections