A basic question on curves (and planning):
I am constructing my OO attic layout using Peco flexitrack. I am lucky enough to have a fair amount of space (a ring 5M x 4M) and hence I have tried to use the largest-radius curves as possible, with long gentle sweeps and gentle transition curves where there is space. But this has all been done more or less by eye - using pieces of setrack of different radii as 'guides' to make sure things are not getting too tight and making sure clearances are sufficient. It's all very trial-and-error, lots of jiggling about and nudging lengths of track here and there, but seems to be working so far. I have not calculated curve radii precisely or even done more than sketch out the plan on the boards - I have just made the track 'go where I want'. Is my approach OK or is it likely to lead to disaster? As far as I can tell, if the rolling stock is happy then all is well ....
I am constructing my OO attic layout using Peco flexitrack. I am lucky enough to have a fair amount of space (a ring 5M x 4M) and hence I have tried to use the largest-radius curves as possible, with long gentle sweeps and gentle transition curves where there is space. But this has all been done more or less by eye - using pieces of setrack of different radii as 'guides' to make sure things are not getting too tight and making sure clearances are sufficient. It's all very trial-and-error, lots of jiggling about and nudging lengths of track here and there, but seems to be working so far. I have not calculated curve radii precisely or even done more than sketch out the plan on the boards - I have just made the track 'go where I want'. Is my approach OK or is it likely to lead to disaster? As far as I can tell, if the rolling stock is happy then all is well ....