Saturday 26 July 2008

End of the reverse-curve

Having got thoroughly fed up with Cackler leaving the track several times during a morning steam up, I decided to finally do what I'd been thinking about for a while, and re-lay the rear of the loop to get rid of the reverse curve. Originally layed to keep the line as close as possible to the fence, but still clear the fence post, it has though caused running problems, slowing trains excessively, and with the tracks joins coming apart after running steam locos in particular.

The relayed section uses fewer pieces of track at the rear (fewer joins to come loose or have to check) and gently curves to avoid the post, transitioning nicely to the set-track curves. The change in geometry means the right side of the front of the loop is brought forward slightly.
Extensive test running this afternoon with the Baguley-Drewery, then Cackler & Mortimer gave much improved running, with more consistent speed and power round the loop.

Unfortunately it looks like Cackler's filler valve failed at the end of her run, as she was blowing hot water back out of it - not a good sign.