On30 , 101 needed

The maximum curve is totally up to you, but minimum radius requirements vary depending on the equipment you run. 

I'd recommend a minimum radius of 22" (044 in 3R speak) which would allow you to run almost anything you wanT comfortably.

 

If you are tight on space, 18" radius will be acceptable For a lot of equipment. 

 

I personally break the rules I've just mentioned--I use Kato track, and I use the 16 7/8" curves as my minimum radius, and it works just fine with my Bachmann 2-6-0, 2-8-0, and ten wheeler.

 

Jeff C

This should help. It's been around a while, so there maybe models notincluded:

 

http://www.npcrr.net/On30/On30..._Car_Radius_pics.pdf

Not to be funny, but the answer depends on what look you are trying to achieve. I have a friend who is modelling D&RGW in On30 and is using 36" radius curves, which works fine as long as you don't go bigger than an MMI K-27.
I've seen other layouts using Bachmann Porters and mining cars that look fine on 18" radius curves. IMHO, the smaller the curves the more whimsical and less prototypic it looks. I'm personally using 42" minimum, but space is not limited and I'm running big narrow gauge power and full length passenger cars.

thanks for the start of help, going to start a track plan this week

Having worked with each, I'd say that between Peco and Micro Engineering track:

• Peco is far and clear more durable, especially when laying track
• ME is far more accurate looking as the turnouts are longer and the rails more prototypical looking

I used ME track on my own On30 layout and there were times it was driving me nuts, especially with the turnouts as they're insanely fragile. But now everything's in place (after replacing two turnouts) I must admit it does look really good.

Working with ME track is simple, you just need two things, patience and CA glue!    BTW I have never got the weathered flex to work for me, I am now exclusive with the non weathered!  Russ

Hi steam engine. I am starting in On3 and I recommend a new book on Narrow Gauge modeling by Tony Koester. Check Amazon. It covers ALL of the questions you are asking and has an entire chapter dedicated to On30.