Which Postwar car or loco has the most overhang to the outside of a curve? My guesses might be the 773 Hudson (specifically the corners of its cab when running in reverse), or perhaps the front of a N&W "J" 746. Have any of our postwar experts actually tested this, can you confirm it?
A related question has to do with "underhang": How far does the middle of a car or loco intrude into the inside of a curve? This is determined by the length and width of the car, and also the placement of its trucks. My guesses for the most underhang in the postwar era would be the EP-5 (aka "Little Joe") Electric, FM TrainMaster, 2500 series aluminum passenger cars, or the 2628 "Madison" passenger cars.
So why am I asking these questions? Let's say that you are placing concentric ovals of Super O track, or O31 track... If you have a Hudson going in reverse on the inside curve, and an EP-5 electric in the middle of the outside curve, what is the minimum spacing between mainlines to prevent contact? I don't need the actual overhang and underhang measurements (although they would be handy.) I want to know how close together can I place the mainlines with no possibility of collision.
Variations of this question have been asked many times on the Forum. I've heard various rules of thumb: 5.5 inches, 6 inches, etc. In this case, I'm really pinched for space and I can't afford to waste any, not even 1/4", so I would like an exact answer supported by measurement. I have NO desire to run articulateds or modern scale equipment. I'm not "planning for the future." I'm asking specifically about Lionel Postwar, and also specifically about O31 and/or Super O track. (The measurements might be a little different, because as curve diameter gets smaller, overhang and underhang both increase.)
I don't currently own most of the equipment I've mentioned in this post, so I can't measure for myself. However, I would greatly appreciate feedback from anyone who's willing to dig into their collection, try some of these combos, and post the results. Thanks to all in advance!
