My next layout will have a 2% grade and I am hoping my Marx Army set can handle the elevation changes.
Was wondering if anyone had experience running Marx Trains on grades?
Thanks,
Paul
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
My experience has been that only those with traction tires will handle any grade.
Originally Posted by TrainsRMe:
My experience has been that only those with traction tires will handle any grade.
+1 All the Marx engines I have seen for use with trestle sets had traction tires. In addition, they often have double reduction one way motors. I am sure there are a lot of exceptions, of course. Few hard and fast rules when it comes to Marx.
Thanks for the replies! I am going to set up some track on various grades and test out a couple of my sets. I'll report my findings.
Lay down a strip of friction tape ( not the plastic stuff) on one of the outside rails and the engine will climb the grade.
Originally Posted by oo-oooo-oo:
Lay down a strip of friction tape ( not the plastic stuff) on one of the outside rails and the engine will climb the grade.
Thanks for that tip! I will be picking up a roll of friction tape at Wal-Mart tomorrow. I had considered doing something like "Bull Frog Snot" on one outside rail or that "Plasti-Dip" handle dipping vinyl stuff, but this is cheaper. I like grades for my odd-ball projects. Want to see how an O27 handcar or the K-Line Porter will climb on the friction tape!
Take care, Joe.
Originally Posted by oo-oooo-oo:
Lay down a strip of friction tape ( not the plastic stuff) on one of the outside rails and the engine will climb the grade.
I'll give it a try. Last time I used friction tape was on my hockey stick!
