I would like to know if anybody has run the Legacy Mallet 2-6-6-2 on 054" curves as it is rated. I realize there is alot of overhang on curves. But will it handle the 054" curves alright?
I know it should be run on wider radius curves but this is the curve size on my layout.
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Well, it runs on the Atlas 54 I have, quite well, with no problems. I cannot testify to whether it handles O-54 switches, which in my experience is always the biggest challenge to a O-xx rated loco: can it handle switches with curve3d portions of that xx diameter? I don't have any switches on my O-54 loop. But it handles 54 curves smoothly.
It looks a bit strange doing so, however - quite a lot of boiler stick out and such and I need wide clearances for buidlings alongside the tracks, etc. because its most extreme point is jutting out past the outer rail quite a bit. I actually prefer to run it only on 72 inch curves where its stick-out looks less extreme. But mine runs on 54, no doubt about it.
Lee, Thank you. I know this engine probably looks a lot better on wider radius track but I don't have room for the wider radius. My track is Gargraves with Ross switches. My switches are 054, 072, and regular 11 degree. I have been running four Lionmaster engines: 2 Challengers, 1 Cab-forward and a T1 with no problems, although there is alot of overhang with these engines. I realize they were engineered for tighter curves. Again thank you for your reply.
It is a great engine - an articulated big enough to be very impressive and yet small enough (compared to, say, a scale Big Boy) that it looks much better on a layout -- at least mine that is -- with tight 54, 60, and 72 inch curves. Good sound, too.
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