I'm interested in knowing what the minimum radius for Walthers HO Budd passenger cars are. Specifically the new Baggage/Dorm car which isn't out yet but is the same length and therefore probably has the same radius specs. My layout has a 24 degree radius but one portion is between 18-20 degrees. Some long cars sometimes have problems through this section, and unfortunately I can't enlarge it without destroying plaster scenery in my desert. I'm worried, that since the cars have body mounted couplers that I may end up with derailments. Any input would be appreciated, Thanks
Posted by richarddschivley (Member # 274) on :
Southwest Chief... I'm confused....Do you mean the radius of your track in, inches, rather than degrees?? Most cars and locomotives run on a minimum of 18" radius....however, I would suggest at least a 22" or better, on any layout. You just never know, in the future, something comes along...to your liking, only to find out it won't negotiate the radius you have built! This is where you should always plan carefully, before coming to the realization that perhaps, you made a mistake. They are hard to repair after a lot of scenery and things have been added. (Also called, learning from experience.) As far as to the radius the Walther's car will run....you could e-mail them from their website, www.walthers.com Good luck! ...Richard
Posted by Southwest Chief (Member # 1227) on :
Yep, I ment inches, don't know why I put degrees. Posted by Kennedy Model Trains (Member # 808) on :
These cars shouldn't be run on anything less than 22" radius, and anything less than 24" they look pretty funny. Remember, these are scale models of some of the largest passenger cars in use.
Jared
Posted by Fumes5 (Member # 1437) on :
I run the SUperliners on an 18in radious, but you will neeed to modify the truks a little. there should be a little plastic detail part roight over the truck that is removeable, remove it by lifting the body off the chasis, then it sildes out, after which you can just glue it to the truck or just leave it off.
Posted by Chuck Walsh (Member # 677) on :
Budds will run on 22" providing you install KD #26, extra long shank that keep the car ends from rubbing. I have 10 budds. Backing up could be a problem
Posted by Southwest Chief (Member # 1227) on :
Thanks for all the info.
I currenty run Train Station Products Santa Fe Hi-Levels for my El Capitan trainset. I want to add the Walthers Baggage/Dorm to this trainset and that's why I asked about radius problems. I guess the best way to find out if it will work for me is to get one and try it out. Thanks again
