I am looking to purchase some SG at York. My basement will only accommodate O42 curves. Does any of the prewar SG require curves larger than O42? I assume new reproductions will have the same curve requirements as the pre war. I am not worried about looks, just will it run and not derail.
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gftiv,
Prewar SG trains and reproductions will run on 42" curves. (I'm not aware of any other curve size in prewar era.). However, some modern era SG trains need larger radius curves to operate. As long as you stick to prewar style equipment (original or repro) you should be fine with 42" curves.
Some of the MTH reproduction 400E's draw bars are a little too short for the 42 radius-this can cause the tender to rub the engine in the tight curve and scratch the paint(I am speaking from experience) I have seen zero issues from American Flyer or Ives on a 42 radius.
Scott Smith
Everything I have owned in standard gauge, old or new, has run on 042 curves.
Consider using easements in your design. USA Track has a nice selection. Using the 22.5° radius track, here's some combos that fit in 60".
They have a 57 radius that will fit too. The 57 is a 30°. The 042 fits inside with a 7.5" spacing.
Look for Lionel switches and crosses if you need them.
The drawbar issue area would be minimized.
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