LGB Track Extending my Non Scenic 12x5 LGB Oval to 13x7.

[Rob1962]

Here it is.I am waiting to increase my non-scenery 12x5 LGB Oval Layout.Not being familiar with anything other than a basic circle or oval, I want to enlarge the track to a larger oval.Also, because my new Live Steam 13 Ton 2 Cylinder Shay will not complete a single turn on my current layout, even though I was told it would.Anyway, what size track would I need for extending to the 13x7 layout?

 

[maxi-model]

From Accucraft UK site, for 13 ton 2 truck Shay -

Specifications:
1:20.3 Scale – 45 mm Gauge/32mm Gauge (adjustable)
Brass, Copper & Stainless Steel Construction
48 in. (1.2 M) Mini. Radius
Length: 16.8 in. (427 mm)
Width: 4.5 in. (116 mm)
Height: 6.6 in. (168 mm)

1.2 metre/2.4 metre diameter curve minimum = 7'10" minimum diameter, on centre line of track guage. You need a bigger base. The LGB R3 radius, strictly speaking, is a little undersize at around 7'8" total diameter. Note - radii/diameters quoted for track and loco are always taken at the centre line. So, even at minimum radius you need to allow for around 6" extra on the total base area width to cover full track width with ties. You will need a 8'6" width base minimum to accommodate. Suggest you also think about "flexi" track to optimise curve radius and achieve a minimum base size. LGB, and others make this type of track you bend to your required radius. Max

 

[Gizzy]

Are you needing larger radii curves?

What are your current curves?

My guess is that you are using LGB R1 given your size constraints. You could go to R2 curves as you would need at least 6 ft width but you won't get R3 curves in a 7 ft space....