Everything on model trains, model railroads, model railways, locomotives, model train layouts, scenery, wiring, DCC and more. Enjoy the world's best hobby... model railroading!
Track Radius Needed For Rivarossi 4-8-8-4 Big Boy
Ryan asks:
“I’m re-configuring my HO layout and have recently acquired a 40-year-old Big Boy loco to pull several tank cars, boxcars, etc and navigate curves without issues. I was thinking 18″ radius curves but on second thoughts am inclined to try and accommodate 22″ curves instead. Input from anyone with experience would be great. Thanks very much.”
Please add (or view) comments below.
8 Responses to Track Radius Needed For Rivarossi 4-8-8-4 Big Boy
Leave a Reply
Reader Poll
Loading ...SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION
Download Your Free Catalog
Use Tiny Railroad Micro Controllers
N Scale Track Plans
Watch Video
Model Train DCC HELP
Model Train Help Ebook
NEW TO MODEL TRAINS?
FREE Tour Inside Club
Take a FREE tour inside the club.Scenery Techniques Explained
Scenery & Layout Ideas
I bought one brand new and the instructions said, not less than a 22″ radius curves.
At a minimum do the 22”. You will constant derailment if you use smaller.
22 min
Min 22 inch
I would go 24” if you can, it has a more realistic look to it. If you have double tracks make sure the front of the boiler doesn’t interfere with the other cars on the other curve next to it.
Go with the biggest radius you can fit into your available space. I have the Big Boy and 2882 Mallet and while they may cope with smaller radius curves (22″) they will perform and look better on wider curves.
+1 for the track centre space on curves, the tighter curves will have more boiler swing for you to deal with.
As large a radius as possible!
I have used 18″ code 100 Atlas track without a problem for my 4-8-8-4 BIG BOY purchased in 1967. The locomotive still has the “horn-hook” couplers. The locomotive operated on a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood.