Hi all, first post so go easy! I'm looking at a model on ebay at the moment of something I particularly need for my yet-to-build layout. The current owner says they are selling because said model doesn't like the grade 1 and 2 curves on their layout. Silly question probably, but do I take this to mean the tightest radii? Not sure whether to take a punt as my plans do feature tight setrack radii. On the other hand there are no reverse curves to contend with.
Slightly odd phrasing, but yes, that's what I'd infer.
What's the model? Most things are pretty tolerant of tighter corners. 9" ones can be problematic.
Welcome!
Thanks for the reply. The model is a Farish SWT liveried Class 170.
The 170 is fairly long, so overhang on sharp curves will be an issue. I've never consciously run mine around a very tight curve, but if you're happy that it may struggle a bit on the very tightest bends then crack on.
It's an older model, no working lights and not DCC-ready, but mine runs really nicely I must say.
Hi Thebaz, and welcome to the forum :wave:
Peco grade 1 = 229mm radius and grade 2 = 263.5mm.
Kato do a curve even tighter than grade 1.
I don't have such a thing as a class 170 but would have thought it would be OK on grade 2. I can't be positive, though.
Thanks all, I've bought it now so it'll have to work!
I will test it on some other layouts and if it doesn't work satisfactorily I will have to change my plans a little.
On the presumption you have two concentric ovals (or similar) then it should be fine on the outer one at the very least. Mine definitely copes fine with c11" curves.
My 170s All go round Kato 8.5inch curves without trouble. You might have to adjust the couplings but that is all.
Here is a video of the mechanically extremely similar (same powered chassis) 158 unit going round reverse curves on Deansmoor (Peco 9in Setrack points)
(Note - thee units have fixed valances so there is a customised coupling solution between the units, standard couplings within each)
Cheers
Jon :)
Sorry to point it out but that's a nasty kink in the running line, Jon :hmmm:
Quote from: Newportnobby on September 02, 2019, 08:54:00 PM
Sorry to point it out but that's a nasty kink in the running line, Jon :hmmm:
Outrageous!! I am mortally wounded! :D
Seriously though, it is because the two SetTrack points making the reverse curve are slightly different radii, so the second one doesn't bring the track back on a parallel course. I did consider replacing one or both, or minor surgery to slightly shorten one, but in the end I didn't bother. Soon enough they will need replacing anyway and the problem will sort itself.
It doesn't cause any practical problems and actually is not as bad in real life - the low camera angle foreshortens things a bit!
Cheers Jon :)