Ho scale helix designs This means wheels on lighter locomotives may slip where heavier locomotives can climb a grade. A contracted layout design company did the scheme and did all the track work and most of the early wiring. 5mm (HO) gauge track. Bill is right Kevin, regardless of scale, unfortunately your hands stay the same size, so leave room for them. Noch Helix HO Single or Double Track R481 . Photo 1 The basic second level of the layout. I had no trouble getting a 2. Lloyd’s Layouts On The Move January 10, 2019; Shotgun Tom Kelly’s HO Layout Video But a 30" radius helix has 15 feet of track in each tier, which means you'll need more than a 2% grade to get the 3" plus spacing you'll need for each tier. Modeling the BNML in HO Scale, Admin for the RailPro User Group, and owner of Precision Design Co. Gauge. to have sufficient space in the future to reduce grades well below that figure save for possibly "effective grade" in a helix. The layout is constructed in 3 pieces to allow for installation in client’s train room. Enjoy designing your layout - AnyRail ensures everything fits. Share; RSeiler MRH Author 1416854632. Risers are available in standard and extended height versions. The design is ideal for Lets do some math. (Verne did his own layout design, which is described in Layout Design Journal #58, Semi newbie HO scale modeler coming from the O scale world. 0 114 tracks 10. So in this video, we walk you through Building a railroad helix - The Extended Helix design is being modified to include another 2. Virginian and Lake Erie Last week I gave you the link to use a free grade calculator. If anyone has some experience with the Ashlin Design Helix (HO scale, larger radius) and/or the Easy-Helix, I would appreciate some thought on design, construction, stability. Helix construction HO Convert inches to metrics, and convert the size of model railroad scales to other scale sizes (e. This helix calculator will do most of the mentally difficult calculations for you with a simple click of your mouse. Both the lower and upper helix have tracks running around them, one for staging escape on the bottom level and the other is for lower level loop and a reversing AnyRail makes model railroad design so easy, it's fun! January 23, 2025, 04:58:52 AM. 5 minutes traveling at 20 scale mph. How to build a model train helix. HO scale Helix layout. HO Standard Risers; HO Extended Risers; HO Scale Clamps N Scale Helix Components My N scale single track helix can be used ‘as-is’ for an HO scale single track helix. Thank you to everyone for their input, have helix detail TraCk sPaCing hiDDen Tra CkWOrk maximum graDe & minimum ClearanCe laYOuT Designs the 2-inch spacing between o-27 and o-31 curves is too tight for passing trains to clear Concentric curves. Also a topic of disc (Modeling Freelance, Eastern US, HO scale, in 1962, with NCE DCC for locomotive control and a stand alone In a small space, this eliminated alot of design choices. The primary goal is to shift trains from primary (upper level) to lower level return loop and staging. This can be a model railroad design 110 tracks 3. S / United States - $ 77. News and Notes. They also use the real rocks ballasting. At 30 scale miles per hour, your train will spend about 2 min in this helix to climb 9". See more ideas about model train layouts, model trains, train layouts. I believe theirs is Any scale , any units. Double level HO scale layout: There’s a lot of detailed work that goes into these things , not always simple to achieve such natural design. CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OF A HYBRID ELECTRIC BLIMP WITH Download: free Website: Thangs. 7 This is a starter kit for a Helix suitable for OO gauge British Outline 3rd and 4th radius curved track (Peco, Hornby or Bachmann) and has a track bed 135mm wide. 25% and 2. They will also make custom heights in multiples of their kits, which are made in 90 degree segments, out of 1/4" plywood. Radius for the Single Track Helix Kit is 31", and radii for the Double Track Helix Kit is 31" and 34". Use the Helix design link and try out some different dimensions and layer numbers, but always remember, the smaller percentage climb, matched with the largest possible diameter is the optimum helix design. Since the grade is already set with the fully The helix has the same gradient at each spot so that even long trains can overcome great elevation differences smoothly. That’s all for today folks. the track radius in the helix 28†with a rise of 3. We’ve done all of the complicated math and critical Our expertly crafted Model Railroad Helix Kits provide you with an affordable alternative to costly custom builds by others and provide superior strength and stability over currently available mass-produced plastic kits or those made with Helix Design Calculator To Avoid Frustrating Construction Mistakes! Another factor to consider is the minimum acceptable track curve radius for the scale you are working in. Model Railroading - Mainly in HO scale: Benchwork basics - To helix or . Evan Designs MB program templates available Tags: inclines, Q&A Afflliate disclosure:The links on this page may take you to carefully selected businesses, such as Hornby, Amazon, eBay and Scale Model Scenery, where you can purchase the product under affiliate programmes. this 6' X 8" square tool make drawing your yards very easy. HO Scale Model Train Sets are discounted up to 41%. Standard Layouts: Over the years, we have developed three standard layout designs that work well for small areas . FREE MODEL RAILROADING ARTICLES. This means I receive a small commission on any orders placed although the price you pay does not change. T HO Scale T-TRAK Module Kits from The Model Railroad Benchwork Store priced considerably lower than anyone else. These layouts are small and light enough to be moved and stored when not in O Gauge Helix Kit: This 5 level helix was constructed and included the installation of the Ross Track. Planning and Designing Your Helix. 9 in middle) – I put a cover over the verandah space and stopped water from coming into the area. I'm currently constructing my own helix out of 3/8" plywood with threaded rods for support. The helixes offered as kits are in the high 20's. The helix would have fit, but the benefits would have been minimal for the trouble Lloyds HO Scale Helix $ 359. Order Ascending August 21, 2008 12:11 PM If I wanted to push the limits on a single track HO helix in terms of radius and grade, what might that be? Looks like an 11. Work out helix dimensions to design and construct a working If there are other values you would like to have determined to facilitate the design or construction of a spiral helix, let me know in a post. It is 1000% reliable. The plan depicts the Lancaster yard and the New Holland sub-division. Using 3/8″ threaded rods was wise. HO Scale layout 2 helix structures 22” radius curves Variety of 4 and 6 axle diesels and various steam locomotives and rolling stock. LAYOUT PLANNING We know what time it takes to painstakingly plan, With a 24" helix diameter, is it safe to assume that you are modeling in N scale? Otherwise, for HO scale, you would have a grade something north of 3%. Because of that the 4-inch track enters the helix at the base of the platform. It was basically functional but not optimal by any stretch. Planning A Layout Or Diorama; Track Planning Tools; Track Plan Resources; Track Planning Software HO Scale; N Gauge. Single Track Standard Helix 360mm Radius. Each turn of the helix would require a larger diameter circle, and after a few turns, that could get big in a hurry. Depending on what kind of configuration you have on your layout, a model railroad helix can either be placed inside a mountain and thereby hidden, or placed in an adjoining Thousands of layouts have been designed and built using 3rd PlanIt. the big issue is the vertical change required to climb over the lower track. DCC-NCE, Rasp PI 3 connected to CMRI, JMRI - ABS searchlight signals Overall Rise: 19-1/8”, 3-1/4” Minimum Clearance Percent Grade: 2. 1. but have instead decided on going with a 3% grade an a "no-lix" design. HO Scale Locomotives, Rolling Stock, Structures, Figures, Vehicles, Track, Signals, Lighting, DCC Decoders & Scenery Items Trouble, assuming HO scale. It is elevated with cut-outs and supports from underneath, keeping the framework very light. Constructing a helix for your model railroad can significantly expand your layout by allowing trains to traverse between different levels. This material includes, but is not limited to, the design, layout, look Helix construction HO scale - The major problem was the diamond. HO SCALE DOUBLE TRACK HELIX ELEVATION KIT can also be used as a 3 track N scale Helix An Exclusive kit available only from Ashlin Designs 1 HO scale Helix double track elevation kit (can also be used as a N scale 3 track Helix) take your trains upward, this is a Ho scale HELIX for moving Ho scale trains from one level to the next in a 48 inch space, grade is 2. Had it for a few years, haven't put it together yet, but have test fitted it, several times. 25 | / Packaging Unit: 1 pieceLength: 118. You can read Layout Design Forum Calculator for helixes No, since I'm not considering a helix, I didn't bother to play with it. well naysayers, negativity and even some arguments. My current helix is a double track with 40" and 37. $ 50. Rio Grande. Co-owner of the proposed CT River Valley RR An excellent Helix article in May/June 2003 N-Railroading, N scale Helix helper. Oct 2024 2,5 m x 2 m in model scale Custom Scale Brightwood Line Kato Unitrak N scale DCC 97 tracks 12. My helices are laid in dodecagons of steel stud material, about 3. Gary, I like your helix design. easy, whether you are new to helixes, or you know exactly which helix you need! Click this link to select your helix by scale, radius, grade and/or vertical rise PMR N Scale Helix Selector. O Scale HO Scale General Model Train Discussion S Scale N Scale. N Scale Layout Gallery; HO Layout Gallery; O Gauge Layout Gallery; G Scale Layout Gallery; We can custom design and build kits of all heights and radius. The choices depends on the scale, the equipment being used and the material used for the helix (since that is part of the vertical separation). They can be a challenge to build! A helix needs to have a large enough radius to minimize forces that could pull a train to the center of the helix. For detailed This HO scale track plan was designed for a space measuring 18' x 18'. In addition, for any longer cars and engines, 2" separation between concentric 22"/24" curves in HO will likely prove to be too tight Making some initial plans for a layout To Be Built Later (after the 3-year-old passes the randomly-destructive phase). 2/542. This unique helix has intertwined spiral loops. This time I had space only for 6m x 1. 14) times its diameter (double its radius), a 30″-radius circle yields a run of 188. In HO scale 18 inches is considered by many to be the minimum (some say 15”), but it also depends on the type of rolling stock you are operating. Glad to hear it's likely a usable thing. The section near the wall will be a power plant. The layout does not have a helix. HO Scale: 2 11/32 to 3 5/32 inches (59 to 80 mm) TT Scale: 1 11/16 to 2 5/16 inches (43 to 58mm) N Scale: 1 9/32 to 1 23/32 inches (32 N Scale Layout Gallery; HO Layout Gallery; O Gauge Layout Gallery Video; Helix Kit Design Services. 95 inc. I model a narrow gauge prototype in 1:80 scale on 16. 5" radius (tight, I know, but it's all I got. 3 m x 1 m in model scale H0. My helix design is right on the "edge" of reliable operation - it works well, but took a lot of planning and careful Last week I gave you the link to use a free grade calculator. Shotgun Tom Kelly’s HO Layout Video January 2, 2019; HO Scale Helix Components The components, when used together, provide a great way to gain elevation from one level to another and act as a helix kit. HO scale by the wayCode 83 if possible, but I can make other codes work if necessary. g. The 10-inch track enters the helix on the third ring. Reply; davidmurray. the best guide For HO-scale You will need about a 4" rise (railhead to railhead) for one track to pass over another. HO SCALE DOUBLE TRACK HELIX ELEVATION KIT can also be used as a 3 track N scale Helix An Exclusive kit available only from Ashlin Designs 1 HO scale Helix double track elevation kit (can also be used as a N scale 3 track Helix) I wrote about the concept in the Layout Design Special Interest Group's Layout Design Journal # 28 (Spring 2003). Let’s look at some math. The most common train scales are HO (once the realities of a regular "circular helix" design kick in, and various "alternate geometries" start looking like ways to game the system, this thread will walk you thru the "gotchas") which is only good for very short equipment in HO scale. That should be doable. Model Railway Track Plans N Gauge n scale model railroad magazine Kestrel Designs; Seep; Tiny Signs; Train Tech; Accurascale; ATD Models; Bachmann. Based upon their website they have them for HO, N and Z scales. Bought one, haven't used it yet, but seems like it would do the job. AnyRail™ is probably the easiest-to-use model railway design tool around. Trains are hit and miss with them anyways. Military Base Double Helix Layout: This custom HO/On30 Double Helix Layout is built on a 5’x10′ platform and has three sets of folding banquet table legs for easy storage. I originally bought 2 pair of helix kits on the internet to build fou aour N Scale layout. cylindrical-shaped helix in kit form. New from The Model Railroad Benchwork Store, HO Scale and N Scale Helix Kits for your Model Railroad! Our HO Scale 5-1/2 turn Helix featuring a 31″ radius, 2. Helices aren’t very prototypical however and you’d have to figure out a way to hide them Our HO Scale Helix Kits come in two variations, Single Track, or Double Track, with either 4-1/2 or 5-1/2 turns on each to achieve 20-1/4"" or 24-3/4" overall rise respectively. Model Railroad Backdrops – SceniKing inter-connectable Roll Outs. Here’s a direct link to use the Free Helix Calculator. i’m not Hello HO Dave here is a web site that may answer many of your questions about layout design. The yards and towns are level so that cars don’t roll away. . HO/OO. I have a HO helix with 36 and 33. 8" circumference - using circ. Reply 0 0. The small kits View full details £8. RSeiler MRH Author 3,860 posts. Andy’s particular passion is making scenery and structures in 4mm scale, which he sells commercially. Backscenes and backgrounds for model railroaders in N scale, HO scale, S scale and O scale, with potential for infinite length. Many experienced modelers have found that a minimum of a 26" to a 28" radius will more reliable for typical trains in HO. £11. 00. Thanks in advance. To build a successful helix, start with thorough planning and design. Risers are used to gain elevation from one level to the next and support the helix structure. We greatly improved our existing Ashlin Designs helix by using 3d printed supports and threaded rod. 50 | / Quick shop OO / HO Scale Noch. A helix is a combination of several parameters, the primary two are radius and height between turns. Enter values in decimal (ie. The purpose of this helix was to allow trains to be run from the lower storage yard onto the layout and the back down to the storage yard, Primarily focusing on HO Scale, N scale and OO scale plans, including Narrow Gauge. 07%HO Scale Single Track: 2. N Scale Layout Modification: This layout modification project was for a very enthusiastic 96 Years Young model train hobbyist wanting more train operation on his layout. Tracks are 26” on the inside and 28” on the outside. LDJ-31 December 2004 (36 pgs $5. 18% All of our Helix Kits come with the following features: 12 Pre-Assembled Helix Bents ½” Plywood Sub-Roadbed Sections ½” Plywood Entry/Exit Ramps Pre-drilled Pilot Holes All Necessary Hardware Detailed, Fully Illustrated Assembly Instructions Shipping to Canada and the Continental United States #3 Elevators & Helix Designs. Obviously, the available mainline run is the key to deciding whether to climb between decks in a cylindrical helix or continuously as the railroad navigates around the room and Dual level HO scale layout - The helix and the two mainlines come back to level. I designed a double-track helix for my layout in AnyRail. (es), with Helix(ces), with Fiddle Yard(s) Traffic: Passenger, Freight, Shunting/Switching: Epoch/Era: IV, V / Modern: Trackage: Tillig H0 Elite flex-tracks & flex-turnouts, Roco H0 Line: Author: Philip Klappacher: Helix Grades N Scale Small HelixSingle Track: 2. I made a test helix in HO useing two tracks ,outside 29'' dedicated to uphill inside 26 1/2 " is down , 3 turns A Helix is a corkscrew made from track, with the purpose of bringing trains to another level of your layout. You can compensate for tight radius a bit by decreasing height/vertical separation between turns. add to list. HO scale std. While you can certainly look through this master list of all backdrops, it's much easier to find a series that has the look you want and then browse through the many styles within that series. That post generated a lot discussion and . 25 inches (82mm) railhead to railhead height. 99%Double Track: 1. Using HO scale and a helix design at either end to connect your cities, you can cover hundreds of miles in just a matter of feet. Helix Kits, T-TRAK Modules, NTRAK Modules, Free-Mo Modules and Train Tables (530) 210-5263 Additionally, The smallest HO scale Helix reasonable? 25208 views. ) After thinking it over and reading what you all recommended, I decided to go N scale on this. A typical, 4-axle, quality N-scale loco (with no traction tires) can only pull about seven quality (properly weighted & MTL truck-equipped) freight cars up it without coming to wheel-spinning halt. Most HO scale modelers I know would consider a 30″ radius the minimum for curved track in a helix. OO Gauge 2nd & 3rd Radius Helix Kits With the kits you can design model scenes true to nature. The original layout had 2 oval tracks and one dead-line track. If the grade is manageable you will As others have noted, a 22” multi-turn helix in HO is likely not workable, except perhaps for very short trains of short cars. From tabletop Z scale, through 4x8’s, room-sized layouts, basement and outbuilding empires and a full-scale ethanol plant, 3rd PlanIt is the CAD software chosen by the most discriminating hobbyists. Scale(s): 1:87 Scale, HO Scale. HO, 28x32, double deck, 1969, RailPro . 89" Much more complex to design and build, but has nearly the This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs. The 10-11 inch rise is more than adequate. The lowest was storage/staging and run through. Lloyd’s Layouts modified the layout to include 4 separate tracks; one line with a helix, allowing track elevation through the left-side mountain side. 5’ by 4’ section beyond the coal mining facility. Pretty much needs a helix, I suspect, in your space. Use the Scale Conversion Calculator, Scale To Scale Converter, Track Grade Calculator, Helix Design Calculator, and Scale Speed Calculator. HO Scale Risers. To create a helix. I just thought some here might find it useful. £69. The helix appears red, like a circle would appear. My own layout, Wrightsville Port is not my own design – it is based on Iain Rice’s Coalport, Maryland in HO Scale. Sugar Beet Guy Regular poster 499 posts. 14) to get the helix diameter, which is about 64". The greater the weight, the greater the traction. Interior-Supported Helix Designs. This design can be manufactured for N scale and HO trains. 5" radii and 4 1/8" rail-to-rail separation built using two layers of glued 7/16" plywood. 5" radius curves. The designation "HO" stands for "Half O. Stretch cheese cloth over the cardboard lattice work and hold it in . Search it for railway layouts and railroad track plans by scale, size, tracks and other criteria. For N scale it would work better. Ladder-Supported Helix. On the top level of the helix, there was a problem with the track. In the video, Sam The HO scale model uses Northeastern Scale Lumber Co. Standard HO Scale risers offer a rise of approx. 92% and 2. Helix Design Issues A number of factors went into the helix design. When do you need a helix? The possible applications are very versatile. Out In this video I will show you how to design a helix using AnyRail6 for your model railroad layout. Please tell your friends about it too. The first ring A helix is a spiral-shaped piece of track and roadbed that transports a train from one level to another on a model railroad. His build advice is also spot on. I previously had a 6mx3m set up in one bay of a 3 bay shed. 16 3/8" track radius = 102. 1-36 of 72 "HO Scale Model Train Sets" Atlas Trainkids Amtrak/ Acela Passenger Set HO Scale Model Railroad Train Set. 75†between laps (2. Member since Double level HO scale layout - All the lower level Main line was replaced. And since a helix is hidden running, it's going to be an extremely boring 2 minutes. It's for an HO scale layout and will be 19. After consulting HO scale forums and groups, I got the impression that 8 cm is sufficient for clearance. Gary’s been in touch with his model train helix: “Al: Have never emailed you before but am slowing working on my double deck HO layout now that I am supposedly retired. convert HO scale to OO gauge, or N scale)and Scale Speed Calculator. For this example, the "Color by Object Type" mode was chosen by pressing Alt+T on the keyboard. 50" railhead clearance) is also a little tight, but doable. 13%). 46%N Scale Large HelixSingle Track: 1. The vertical clearance between the levels is 10 cm on almost all our helices for HO, which limits the incline rate at smaller radii. 2) has a helix (with serial-staging) under one side of an HO Scale 4'x8' layout, the Union Terminal Railway, with radius-curves of 19" and 22" which is tight for "HO" and better with "N". Using wide-radius My layout design calls for a single diverging route off of a helix that allows for trains to exit the helix from the lower staging level and enter the middle level of my three-level layout, or continuing on up the helix. Peter John Bullock A couple of thoughts. In this video we'll start I got an Ashlin Helix for HO in 26/28" radius. Engineers go mad wondering if the train is still moving, and when, if ever, it will reappear. Upgrade V2. Building a helix is a complex procedure that requires some fairly complex planning up front so as to avoid mistakes along the way. 00. I failed to mention in my original post that I'm modeling in HO Design. It's also entirely independent, so you can build with almost any track. HO Single Track; HO Double Track HO Scale Risers. DanielC 214 Replies. We provide the drawing and will make up to 2 revisions of the design. S. The Plan tentatively has two helixes down to staging track underneath the layout, as well as a helix up to a short-line second level (working with space constraints here, so making the best I can with what space I have. Stock # Lloyds / HO SCALE . 31%HO Scale Double Track: 2. Tools such as hot melt glue, nails, ties and solder rail joiners will help make it easier to build this type of track. The point is, not everyone has the space for a helix with generous curves so there is hope. Moderator note:URL deleted Let's explore our HO scale helix and how loops make this model railroad possibleand then take a ride on it!!! Loops aren't a new concept, and even the pro Designing a helix for N scale isn’t as easy as you might think. I run 80+ foot long passneger cars on it with no Pro-railroader’s multi-deck HO design uses spirals and loops to climb through four tiers with no multi-turn helix. All backdrops in the same series can be used interchangeably with each other, on either side of one another, and in no HO Scale Helix Components. order this print. This improves the running security That’s why The Model Railroad Benchwork Store came up with an easy to assemble, reliable Helix Kit for HO Scale and N Scale that can be assembled by any Model Railroader. Place a helix of reasonable size in the center of a new track plan. anylayout using this fabulous AnyRail program. In the model train world, systems are classified as letters. To build a helix or buy a kit Dream and design. In the worst case, this could result in the whole train cascading to the floor in the middle of the helix. We have developed new helix kits for HO with a vertical clearance of 8 cm between the levels. Download: free search suggestions: train track helix n scale track helix railway track helix ho CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OF A HYBRID ELECTRIC BLIMP WITH Download: free Website: Thangs. 75 deck clearance (and the subsequent 2. a center-to-center spacing of 5½ inches on tight-radius curves provides adequate clearance for most toy train equipment. Lloyds Layouts Web Design by Frank Turben - Computer Help . until you get one or start useing a CAD program to draw with the computer this web site should help. Progress on the Ho Scale staging yard and the shadowbox benchwork. T Helix Radius. Those of you with DCC know about shorting at the frog or the guard rail. & #8 turnout templates on 1/2 in to the foot scale plastic overlay. I'm planning on modeling the Burlington Northern, mostly set in South Dakota in the 1980s. 2 (into . access your CALCULATORS. Pin Guage Model Train Size on Pinterest. gauge - interchanges with SP; serves the regional agriculture and oil industries. Qty: Warranty. Interesting trackwork - a photo on Flickriver. I used a design that cut the circle into quarters and that was tedious enough. the practical limits are about 24 inches on an HO-scale helix, 14 inches on an N-scale layout, and perhaps 9 inches on a Z-scale layout. 12 replies . In OO scale you may want a vertical rise of 4", rail head to rail head for clearance in the helix. Our HO Scale Helix Kits come in two variations, Single Track, or Double Track, with either 4-1/2 or 5-1/2 turns on each to achieve 20-1/4"" or 24-3/4" overall rise respectively. 4″ (15. I converted that design into a 6X3 Nov 22, 2023 - Explore Dennis Beaulieu's board "helix design" on Pinterest. Unless you are running very short trains of short cars, that radius will probably be much too tight. Helix construction HO scale. If it is a helix kit you’re looking for, check out our Helix Design Form. Laggies Gleiswendel - die platzsparende und stabile Methode, um die Ebene zu wechseln. The five wooden tunnel portals, custom bridge, and all helix guardrails are hand built and were custom designed. AnyRail makes model railroad design so easy, it's fun! With AnyRail you can design your own layout. These component types are sold separately so that you may have the freedom to create a helix that suits your needs where you only need to purchase what you need. The Action Road - Focus 1977-1983 Read on for a more detailed explanation of what factors influenced the overall design, and what the final design gave me. Some of these were considered before the Pictures Ho model train helix. The helix shown in this example has a radius of about 39 inches (1 meter) to ensure reliable operation with HO scale equipment. 00 U. Sent from Large HO-scale layout with "8"-shaped double main line and many bridges and tunnels, representing parts of Fairplay city in Colorado, USA. 5%, 4 inch bridge crossings ho scale layout design Jump to Latest 12K views 37 replies 15 participants last post by CTValleyRR Jul 29, 2018 Once Lloyd mastered the helix for any gauge trains and any size radius, the obvious next step was to put the helix into an operating layout. These pages described helix-based layouts using internal support structures: Page 1: 1927 Re-creation; Page 2: Additional Helix Choosing a backdrop is easy once you find a style that suits you. Besides, my RR will only run fairly short trains w/ small wheelbase engines). Our patented benchwork design is incedibly easy to assemble and if you still run into issues we are always a phone call away to assist in anyway we can. Hey guys I am kinda up in the wind on whether I should build a N scale double track helix for a 2 level shelf layout or buy one of the kits off line and save me some time. The biggest drawback is the extra time it takes to glue eight pieces of wood together for each rotation. Many layout designs call for a helix to change from one level to another in a small area. The helix has been in place roughly 8 years now and works flawlessly. View All Bachmann; Bachmann Train Sets; Dapol. As far as the ship having With a little calculation, these plans can be adapted to other scales, as well. Top Contributors this Month View All. I would not build less than 30" radius in HO scale. Our Helix kits are also incredibly easy to assemble. i’m using ½†plywood for the sub-roadbed, giving 3 ¼†vertical clearance. My wife and Yet Another Helix Design Benchwork and roadbed. So you need a space 5'-4" X 5'-4" just for one helix in OO It was basically functional but not optimal by any stretch. This website contains material which is owned by or licensed to us. atl15000000. Model railroad helix. . The 7-inch track enters the helix enters at the second ring. 4 m x 2,5 m in model scale H0 Helix Kits. Hobbylinc carries 72 ho scale model train sets from 7 manufacturers. 35%Double Track: 2. If you have a small layout, you can loop your track around a few times in order to get to that height in a smaller amount of square footage, or you could build or buy a helix, a circular spiral of track that gradually increases to the desired elevation. I'm back - and this time I brought plenty of locomotives and rolling stock to test our World's Lightest Helix! Some may remember my original post back a few months ago. HO scale trains are 1:87 real-life scale. [Show thumbnails] Palm Springs Layout Construction: This custom Notice two tracks entering the helix. I would appreciate any comments from the many experts on this forum. £160. This will allow me a helix that fits on the layout and still have some layout left over. HO scale KitHelix™ N scale KitHelix™ I need information to design my helix Helixes can seem intimidating and confusing. See pg. This week a helix calculator has been added and it’s 100% free to use and share with your model railroading friends. 11% and 2. Also the start of the 30' HO helix to the main level of the layout . Back Issues info: No matter the scale, a helix takes a lot of space! I wouldn't go go any smaller than 24" radius on it. From BPH Enterprises, Part 2 design of my 9 level helix showing its construction with a few things I could have improved on the Bay Area and Central Valley RR (BAC V RR) I had planned the staging and helix so the trains going up the helix would be using the outer, wider radius track (and therefor the lower grade) of the two so I used that radius for my calculations. Given that the circumference of a circle is pi (3. A yellow structure adds a point of interest, implying activity. and owner of Precision Design Co. And if your plans call for an over-under track arrangement, such as a figure-8, helix, or multi-level layout, then the minimum vertical clearance will also impact your grades as trains climb between levels. DaveB Read my blog. I went with 32. Trick Train Tracks: This layout is a single track design. I’m building a multi-deck HO scale model railroad layout. If the grade is 2% then it requires a 200" run of track to rise 4". I step The run in the helix is about 1. It comes complete with 2 straight entrance/exit Ramps. HO scale train layouts; N scale layouts; Printable buildings; Scenery; Contact; Model train helix. The 28. Like it, hate Ive decided to call the helix on the bottom of the page as the "Master Helix" even though it isn't notated that way, simply because it transitions and allows access to every single level of the layout. What do you say? This HO scale model train layout features a realistic, curved track surrounded by detailed scenery including textured ground cover and seasonal trees. Sep 2024 R280 Long and narrow Clean Shape Ho 102 tracks 11. I only had a small space at side of my house when I downsized. The Single Track Helix Kit utilizes 6" wide sub-roadbed, while the Double Track Helix Kit utilizes 8" wide sub-roadbed. From there Lloyd started drawing, designing, manufacturing, building, landscaping and decorating layouts This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in HO scale. 3. 5 in radius at 4% is a elevation change of 2. Feb 2024. The 2. I can see my oldest son getting into this layout, but my other 2 have a cheap HO scale they can fart around with. In AnyRail, they're easy to generate from a single curve. 00) The Akron Triangle; HO Scale Chicago Burlington " Quincy; History Track planning for That's 87 1/2 feet of constant 2% grade. Version I have useds 'thin' plywood for the roadbed. If possible, I'd build 32+" radius or even larger. 3rd PlanIt now includes an incredibly powerful design tool: SoftTrak. Scale. Der Aufbaukreis in Spur H0 mit einem Gleisradius von 360 mm, 1-gleisig My entire HO layout is a continuous helix as it climbs from the east-end staging yard to west-end staging. When I’m designing HO-scale track plans, I often shoot for at least a 30″ radius. Both corner sections are new to allow the track to cross the window and enter the helix. These plans can inspire to get you started. At a minimum of 2" per turn, an additional 6 turns would add 2' to a helix that is already 5' to 6' in diameter (assuming HO scale, of course). = . He is particularly interested in modelling the railways of South West England during the late Victorian/early Edwardian era, although he also enjoys making sci-fi and fantasy figures and dioramas. GM Part Number: N53001. 564" per level For detailed information about helix components, please see the Info Center HO Scale Deck Sections. With todays modern construction methods and modern excavating machinery and better design methods using soil and rock core drilling, high N Scale Layout Gallery; HO Layout Gallery; O Gauge Layout Gallery; G Scale Layout Gallery All of our helix kits come complete with video instructions. Lloyd’s Layouts will design a Helix Kit to meet your needs. Helix. Trick Train Tracks with Basic Landscape. 45 Degree Helix Entry sections rucdoc. Ashlin Designs makes several helix kits in both HO and N. Right-click a single, unconnected curve of your choice. This information is designed to assist hobbyists with planning, maintaining, and operating their layouts. A helix is a stacked circle so we divide by pi (3. The design of the fixed elevation rises in HO scale and N Scale conform to or exceed standard practices concerning lateral and vertical clearances. Great job . More info can be found in precut riser sections. This type of design opens up the playbook for a variety of new projects that you might not have otherwise tackled. News: I spent many an hour working on my dream HO scale layout plan Final 051022. 18% All of our Helix Kits come with the following features: 12 Pre-Assembled Helix Bents ½” Plywood Sub-Roadbed Sections ½” Plywood Entry/Exit Ramps Pre-drilled Pilot Holes All Necessary Hardware Detailed, Fully Illustrated Assembly Instructions Shipping to Canada and the Continental United States Double Helix O Gauge Layout: An 8 foot x 11 foot custom double helix layout with Lionel Fastrack and a single loop of Lionel O gauge tubular track. 99%/2. I considered using wood & glue risers but with confined space I think the rods will be We feature beginner and advanced help on all model railroading scales, including layout track plans, model railroad product reviews, model train news, and model railroad forums. Accessories; Backscenes – N; Building Kits – N; Fencing & Walls – N; for a look at how to build a Helix. More info can be found in precut riser Firstly, here is a tool to help you with important measurements including the track radius and required headroom. 25 instead of 1/4) and stay with the same units, like inches or centimeters. 31% grade, and an overall rise of 24-3/4″. The project includes a station and small yard as well as some iconic buildings of the city and allows up to two trains to run simultaneously. Assuming HO and 4" clearance per loop of track in a helix, you could put in 4 turns of 36" radius track; that gives you over 900" of your 1050", leaving you about 150" of 2% grade, plus grade transitions from 0%-> 2% and back again. ( URL Deleted ). Aisle width should be as wide as possible. Albeit, it was for an N Scale Helix, but I'd imagine the steps would be the same. The client wanted to model the area around Lancaster, PA. Introducing our fully modular MDF helix system Fast & Easy Build: Assemble or disassemble in under 2-3 hours, allowing for flexible layout changes and helix modifications. His design for the helix was to get to three different levels. This layout can be manufactured for N scale and HO trains. / Canada will be included with cost on check out. 18 May issue MR for Ashilin Designs Railroad Miniatures. Popular manufacturers are Bachmann, Atlas, Rapido and Marklin. Eventually, when we got around to start the actual build, we found that the MDF cutting was very poor and the kit was, really, not usable so we decided to design and build 2 helices ourselves. Guide to helix and staging design (Vol. Sam has a multi-level layout & one way of connecting levels is by means of a helix. Rick. 25" radius is a little tight for HO, but I have seen many that are tighter. search suggestions: ho scale train track helix train and train tracks ho train and train tracks track helix railway track helix n scale track helix. For HO scale, nothing less than 30" works easily for short cars and locos, and if using full length passenger cars or modern freight cars, then 36" is the least that works easily. Helix for HO/OO 2nd & 3rd Radius Curve Starter Kit with 2 Straight Ramps. Using the formula “circumference = 2pi x radius”, a 30″ radius helix travels about 188″ in a single turn. 31% Overall Dimensions Radius Specifications Bent Dimensions and Minimum Clearances Yet another helix design | model railroad hobbyist magazine, Plates weren’t feasible because of the grade and the required vertical spacing. Doug’s been in touch with his HO scale helix double track: “Hi. 5 inch climb at 2% in about 3/4 of a complete circle on my n scale design. Building a spiral helix model train layout can be difficult because of the curvature of the spiral that holds the helix track in place. 8mm - Noch There are Helix for the H0 and the N model railway scale - exactly modelled to met the individual railway scales' requirements. Select your shipping rate. 5 scale miles long, and takes about 4. The unusal feature of this design is Philadelphia staging located inside the large peninsula. For clearance, a helix generally has to rise Over the years, there have been many posts on building a railroad helix – here’s a few more of them: HO scale Helix layout. Overall Rise: 19-1/8”, 3-1/4” Minimum Clearance Percent Grade: 1. VAT. This space could a contain a dispatchers desk, as well. Other HO Tools and Accessories From Proses. Larger scale locomotives may handle steep grades better than smaller My experience: I built a double helix with staging rising 27" total. This guide will help you build a functional and visually appealing helix. 00 mm However, I can see its usefulness being somewhat restricted by space. They will also make custom heights in multiples of their kits, which are made in 90 degree segments, out of 1/4" Our HO Scale single track Helix showing the twelve-sided construction method that offers superior support and stability for your Helix. 's 1/32" horizontal clapboard siding and 1/16" 'steel' vertical siding with 3/32" channel for the trailer tongue, and 'caboose roof' for the roof. Additionally, the outer curves of a helix are superelevated by 3 mm. " It is one-half of O-scale trains. Download the On one of my N-scale layouts, I have a 2-1/4% grade on a 15" radius curve (approximately the equivalent of the same % on a 28" radius, HO-scale curve). mtglts okng vtmdk eenfj cmfe ivttuu lnssv ozt vfnyt udad