Which curve?

[coasterp]

If using a #6 EZ track turnout, what curve section do I need to bring the second track parallel with the main line through the switch? It looks like it can't be done at all with the #5 switch, but the #6 looks like it might be the 18" 1/3 radius curve. Does anyone know if this is correct?

[Jake]

A #6 turnout is not equal to an 18"r 30* curve numbered turnouts are very different from curved ones. And anyway, you would need a curve (of at least the minimum radius to run you largest engine.) equal to 9.46* if I'm not mistaken. So it is a nearest fit thing.

[coasterp]

Jake,

I think you misunderstood. I'll try to explain it better. If I have  #6 switch, and I want to use it to go into a siding, what is the specifc peice of EZ track that I would need to connect to the end of the diverging part of the switch in order to have the siding track be parallel with the mainline track?

[Jake]

you would need a curve (of at least the minimum radius to run you largest engine.) equal to 9.46* if I'm not mistaken. So it is a nearest fit thing.

Basically, anything that is about 10 or so degrees would work

[SteamGene]

I'm not an E-Z Track expert, but I would think that it would depend on how far from the mainline you want your spur.  Since you are using a #6, I wouldn't use any radius smaller than 22" or you defeat the reason for the larger frog. 
G ene

[coasterp]

I'll try again. All the curves I look at seem to either have the parallel track angled slightly toward or away from the main line. Jake indicated that a 10 deg. curve track (radius unimportant) would most likely fit the bill. Does Bachmann make this? I have not seen any curve tracks with a 10 deg. angle.

[Jake]

well the only curve I know of is the 1/3 18" r cueve, but that is too small. But there may be a solution. Is this a permanent layout like a 4x8 or something or is it a carpet layout? If it is permanent then you could use a cut piece of flex track & some cork or woodland scenics roadbed until it is parallel with your main.

[SteamGene]

Let me make sure.  You are asking about HO standard gauge track, right?
Gene

[Steve_Smith]

I use a 12 degree 33" radius curve...it puts it a little towards the main but depending on how long you siding is you should be ok.


Steve

[coasterp]

This was to be a permanent layout. However, my wife has decide that HO is just to small for me to work with. Therefore, WE will be building an O scale layout. She says that is a nice size for me to work with. All I can say is "yes dear, whatever you want."

[SteamGene]

Compromise with 0n30!
Gene

[coasterp]

I mentioned that to her. We both like the big modern stuff though.