@Bob I have mine coming out to a grade at 2.4% according to AnyRail I think. I haven't messed with this in a while since the helix won't be underway for a while yet (like a year). But I'm not overly concerned about time in the helix since there won't be a ton of traffic between levels. Coal drags will be the main traffic. Perhaps I'll grow to regret this opinion? I do plan to have a window in the side so I can see what's going on.
I was actually planning on using tubular track to save some money. Any reason not to? I was going to split the rails on the bottom and crimp the wires between it to make darn sure the continuity will be good.
4 turns would get me the height I'm considering so less than five minutes is perfect for me.
@Dan65train this sounds very similar to the design I was to use. I'm only concerned about making sure I don't clip the rods with locomotive and long car overhang.
