Model Railway Forum

I plan to have a narrow gauge portion on my layout. What is the maximum incline for a Bachmann Baldwin towing 6 coal wagons?

Thanks

The recommended minimum gradient is 1 in 30 for any loco.

But that must change with the length of train. If it were me asking the question I would lay some track on a long plank of wood, put the loco and max. intended number of wagons/coaches on it and run it, each time slowly lifting the end up thus increasing the incline till it stopped pulling and drop it back down till it pulled consistently well. And that would be what I used. Remember adding curves within the incline will increase the drag and therefore the point at which the train will stop.

Yes that is the minimum. 1 in anything higher than 30 is better. That of course is if the track is straight.

Curious things, inclines. Having set up my helix, absolutely by the book, i wanted to run a TT Gauge loop, over the top of my DCC layout at one end. My layout is 9 ft long, so i started the inclines, immediately after the bends, so track rose at one end to allow DCC loco to pass under to reach turntable. Expected problems, but all 4 of my TT gauge locos, shoot up and down, without any fuss. I assume its the age/ motors in those days, that were better quality. I have 2 steam, locos, a diesel, and little diesel shunter. Very impressed, if no a tad surprised.

Just measured, 5 foot incline. Goes from zero , to 3 inches, so, kinda depends on locos.

That’s quite steep. Should take 90 inches to rise 3. Good old heavy powerful locos.

Triang TT on Peco flexi. I totally agree, i was expecting them to stutter, but all four fly up. Only mentionned it, as it kinda depends on the loco.