Minimum Radius

[lqdsky]

First post to the forum. I just started collecting G scale trains. I currently run Japanese N Scale and wanted to get an outdoor layout going of Large scale American Steam. My first purchase was the Spectrum Consolidation. I have started picking up Aristo Steel straight track. What is the recommended radius for the consolidation. Because of space, I ideally would like to keep it at 6.5'. I can get 8' if I re-vamp thing a bit. I noticed the spectrum freight cars require 8'. So I'm not sure how they would run & look on 6.5'.

Thank You

[Curmudgeon]

I use 6'8" radius on mainlines, and it's fine on the 2-8-0's.
However, if you mean DIAMETER, maybe not so good.

[lqdsky]

I did mean diameter  . Looks like I will have to re-evaluate my plans and work in a 8' Diameter.. Thanks for the reply.

[Steve Stockham]

  Believe me, you will be happier in the long run! While the Bachmann Fn3 cars will make it around 6.5 ft. diameter curves, they only just make it! If you choose to add some AMS cars to your layout (like the new passenger cars that are coming out) you will need 8 ft. minimum curves not to mention that the K-27 will need 8 ft. minimum. Why limit yourself? If you can, definitely upgrade to 8 ft.! I promise you that you won't regret it!

[Danny Sheehan in Oz]

I agree with the previous posters, my Connie will run on my branch line which has 4 ft radius (8 ft diameter) curves, but my main line is 8 ft radius (16 ft diameter) curves, looks much better.  So certainly make your curves as large as possible, to accomodate future locomotive purchases.

[lqdsky]

Unfortunately space is an issue. 6.5' was ideal, Not sure if I would be able to work with the 8'.  It's a small space between my back door and the property fence. With a 8' diameter I think I will be hitting a walkway. I will have to take some measurements.
If it does not work out, I guess I will have to run smaller stock. Maybe Forney with some the of log skeleton cars.
Thank for the replies.

[grumpy]

Bachman Mogul , 4-6-0 aniversary special,0-4-0 porter,-Aristocraft 2-4-2 will all run on 4'0 diam curves without problem. In fact most of the older type loco's with 6 drive wheels or less can be used.

[r.cprmier]

Steve;
Are you saying eight foot radius or diameter?  I have two K-27s on order, and plan to use about a 12 foot radius for my trackwork-minimum. 
Oh, did I read that these engines have a 24-volt motor?  Does that mean that the others (shay, consol, etc) do also?  I had locked into a twelve volt system, but not a biggie.  I think 24vac to a decoder would be better anyway.

Rich