Diameter Curve Question

[wally]

Will the Spectrum g 2-8-0 Consolidation , or the two truck Shay handle a 5 ft. diameter curve? If not are there any Bachmann G scale engines that will. Any help will be welcome. Thanks Wally

[altterrain]

The Connie (2-8-0) really needs 8 foot diameter curves to run well. I think 6.5 is a minimum. The ten wheeler (Annie or Big Hauler), Indie 2-6-0, or two truck geared locos (shay, climax, heisler) will do fine on 5 foot curves.

-Brian

[Kevin Strong]

The 2-8-0 can fit around a 5' diameter curve, but you need to use the furthest hole on the drawbar. I can't remember if you need to modify the coal pile on the front of the tender or not... TOC will likely chime in shortly with the definitive answer.

Later,

K

[wally]

Thanks for the help.

[Curmudgeon]

It will do the middle-radius older LGB curves of 1500 IF you are on long-couple and do the coal pile mod.
Without removing the rear cab support and tender plate, it won't do less.
Plus, if you chop the pilot back 7/16", and shorten the coupler mount and use a Lionel or Delton coupler, you will reduce the nose overhang by a BUNCH for nose switching.

From just over 5 years ago:

have found that on close couple the metal deck plate catches the coal spill pile and derails the lead driver. Same on far couple and 1500's.
FREE fix is to lift out the coal retaining board (pulls straight up), then pull the coal spill pile straight up. Now, turn the pile so it is still oriented the same, but one end all the way up to the top of the recess behind these two removed parts and one end all the way down. Fit the spill pile into this recess, then work it down flat against the bottom. Install coal retaining board. Problem solved.
TOC