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Reply to "O Scale Track Grades"

My maximum grade is 2%, and, in my opinion, that's plenty.  You could, theoretically, build a 4% grade on your layout, but even model couplers do not like grades of that severity.  Personally, I would say that Atlas locomotives ought to be able to handle the job, as they are almost bullet-proof in durability.  However, just like real trains, they will pull fewer cars on severe grades, and you will have to check them periodically for heat.

One thing to consider -- and this is important -- is the transition into and out of grade.  The more severe the grade, the longer the transition needs to be.  If the transition is too short, your trains will be uncoupling due to coupler vertical bypass, and this will be experienced more often on long cars.  I have cars from several manufacturers, and there is not great consistency in coupler height.  Even with a 2% grade, I occasionally experience a train separation when a train is passing through the transition section.

Last edited by Number 90

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