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Is a #4.5 a good choice for medium sized N Scale layout - mainline and yard?
Poll ended at Thu Oct 24, 2013 12:52 pm
Yes 0%  0%  [ 0 ]
No 0%  0%  [ 0 ]
#5 is better 100%  100%  [ 1 ]
#6 is better 0%  0%  [ 0 ]
Total votes : 1
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PostPosted: Tue Sep 24, 2013 12:52 pm 
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Joined: Fri May 18, 2012 3:52 pm
Posts: 5
Hi folks. My first post here, been lurking and reading a lot to gain some knowledge.
I'm building an N Scale layout based on the Monon railroad in Indiana in the 1950s.
I currently have about 10 Atlas turnouts - #6, or #4 customline installed. I tried to make them work well by checking them and tuning them with the NMRA gauge before installing on the layout, but they are still not the most reliable. I need to have about 35 more for the yard and other locations on the layout.
I believe based on the cost, handbuilding will work out and should provide better operation and reliability in the long run, so that's why I'm here.
I was hoping for some feedback on my choice of fixture size to go with - #4.5
At this point I want to settle on one size because of the cost of the fixtures.
The yard will use 4 axle switchers -
Mainline mostly 4 axle diesels with some steam, maybe an occassional large 2-8-8-2 and some passenger equipment - 80' 50's style cars.
I've tried to keep the minimum mainline curves to 15"
From what I've read the #4.5 will support anything that can go down to 20" and the large steamer does work on my curves now (15" min).
Also, the #4.5 seems like a great choice for the yard and switchers to work with.

PS - I'll post another topic with a question about frogs separately.

Thoughts and suggestions on my choice of #4.5 appreciated.

Thanks

Don K

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Don K
Modelling the Monon in NW Indiana N Scale 1950s


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PostPosted: Wed Oct 09, 2013 11:29 am 
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Joined: Fri May 18, 2012 3:52 pm
Posts: 5
Hi folks. Sending an update - after some guidance from Terry, I went with #5 for the N scale turnouts.

Regards,

_________________
Don K
Modelling the Monon in NW Indiana N Scale 1950s


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