I've tweaked the plan to use R3 points, and lengthened the loop slightly. Unfortunately this is messing with the gradients!
I want some candid advice really, for this to work I now need to drop at 2.5% from the 'south' end of the station (assuming up is north on the plan) to the bridge site where the line goes under - this loses 6.15cm.
From the north end of the station loop the line climbs at 2.5% to 21cm above the lower track at the bridge point.
The loop is assumed level, at 6.15cm above the lowest point.
The other side of the bridge drops at 2.2% to the low point.
This means the station area and the 1.2m long bridge are the only level sections of line, and that the majority of the loop is climbing or falling at about 2.5%.
What effect will this have on locomotive performance? I'll be running LGB electrically, track powered locomotives initially on analog (later digital). Typical size will be U-tank, possibly a Rugen 0-8-0 or Frank S in future. Trains 3 short coaches or 2 bogie coaches long (most of the time!). Will I get surging on the down grades, will I wear out motors on the climbs? Will I find the rain/wet weather makes the line un-usable? Should I go with something on the level if this is the space I have to play with?
Please - honest experience welcomed!
