Last evening I performed my timed test. At 10 scale mph the 0-8-0 completed a reasonable representation of the plan using Fastrak 036 and 048 curves came to be 2:45. At 5 scale mph it was 5:05. 10 may be a bit fast, but I think 5 is pretty slow for going uphill. So, it was a reasonable test. It takes almost a minute to move an engine 180 degrees on the Atlas turntable. Fiddle around with some cars on and off, and time fiddling comes in between the two timed tests, I would say. Too short of a run for me.
I checked the overhang for clearance purposes while setup. On the 036 curve, my longest overhang was a bit less than 2 1/2 inches from the center line of the track. I even tried a couple 15" passenger cars, and they came in just under that. So, that isn't too bad at all. Here is a photo of part of my setup, I actually didn't have enough straight sections to replicate, so I used curves out of a Thomas set.
Dave,
The plans look great! I like the one with the circles showing reach that has the curved turnout at the upper level. I am not concerned about a grade on a tunnel. I will just makes sure my roadbed and track are excellent before I cover it. While on the topic, I did a little research and there are many railroad tunnels on grades. I know the Gallitzin Tunnels at Tunnel Hill between Altoona & Horseshoe Curve and the West Slope & Johnstown have slight grade difference. I was surprised to learn the following:
There is a 1.7% grade inside BNSF's Cascade Tunnel (7.79 miles long) that is approached on either end by 2.2% grades on the rest of the mainline there. BNSF's Stampede Pass tunnel, was built in the 1880s with ascending grades from either end. The summit of Stampede Pass is literally inside the mountain.
I never knew this but the Spiral Tunnels in Kicking Horse Pass are a classic example of two tunnels that climb and then pass over their origins to get around a section of track that used to be 4%. Here is a picture from when it was built in 1909. I guess as they say, there is a prototype for everything.
I really think that is the plan for my layout. Of course, I know there will be modifications along the way, but it does what I am looking for in this relatively small space for O gauge. I couldn't find a model photo online to show adequately what I envision on the pink wall, but imagine another track in the valley below the main halfway up. Of course, we all have to scale the scenery way, way down, but that gives an idea.
I need to get some paint and track lighting up in that room and then move forward. Thank you for your interest everyone!!
