What is the overhead height clearance I need to run container or intermodal cars ?
I have a helix that measures 5 3/4 inches from bottom board to top board.
Using Lionel track, that gives me about 5” clearance from the top of the rail to the bottom of the helix section above it.
I figure its easier to ask the question here than it is to buy an container car and see if I have enough height clearance to run it.
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Typically height clearance for O-Gauge usually calls for 6".
I have a piece of Lionel Fastrack on the workbench from when I was playing around with a transition from Atlas-O to an LCS track. So I placed an MTH Gunderson car (w/two containers) on the Fastrack, and it looks like it needs 5-5/8" from the bottom of the Fastrack to the top container. So you have 1/8" to spare... and that's not really allowing for ANY variance in track work, or sub-roadbed sound-deadening material.
I wouldn't do it -- not to mention you should also evaluate Atlas-O Gundersons (both older models as well as the Maxi-IV's), along with MTH and Lionel twin huskystack cars.
David
That is a tough question to answer. The heights are all different: K Line, Lionel, MTH and if these are "full-sized" or "standard" makes a difference as well.
I have K Line cars that will go under 6 inches, but not by much. I was told by a friend that the MTH scale stuff is taller than 6 inches---someone here with one would have to tell you.
I use 7 inches as the clearance for my top of the rail to the lowest point of whatever is above clearance. I haven't discovered anything yet that won't make it.
From the bottom of the rr tie to the top off top container 5.5 inches. these are RK stacks.
To clear ALL Double stacks, Premier included, use 6-1/4" from top of rail.
bruce
I would measure the height of the tallest freight car while on the track and add in at least 3/8th's of an inch for top side clearance. A half inch would be great but may not always be able to be done.
Lee Fritz
Thank you for the replies.
Looks like I'm a little short
Rocky Mountaineer gave me the same 6" advice last year and am so glad that he did. Of all the things that could disrupt operation, 6" clearance has never been an issue and I run a lot of Huskies.
Lionel Husky Stack & Atlas Gunderson appear to be less than 5-1/8" from top of rail. Have an MTH Steel Arch bridge which has 6" of clearance so we made that the default.
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