Planning a layout and need a crossover between loops that have an elevation difference of 1 1/2". I would like to have the track separation to be <6" and grade of <4% on the transition. How/is it possible? I would like to use Ross switches. Any guidance appreciated. This will be an around the room layout approx. 17'x17'. 072 inside loop, probably 080 outside.
Bill
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Doing a quick check with my RR-Track program, a 1.5" rise with a 4% grade will require 37.5". Add a short transition section to go from flat to grade of 6" at each end, you will need 43.5" of distance between the switches. It would look something like this:
I don't think a track separation of <6" is possible. I did something similar to Ron's using Ross #10 switches, a 5" separation and GarGraves flex track. Even with a 6" separation, I believe the connecting track will be too close to the lower oval for the locomotives to clear the rise at some point. The gray box is 6" tall. My suggestion is to invest in something like a Ross DoubleCrossover #11 with a 4.5" separation and place it on one side/end of the layout where both ovals can be the same height. The rest of the outside loop can be raised to the desired 1.5".
Thank you Ron and Dave! I was concerned, the space to make it work would be larger than I wanted it to be. The double crossover would solve other problems as well, just need to figure a new location.
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
