Help with HO Scale Helix design

[Trucklover]

Yes, it works out to a 2.9% grade. If you increase your radius as discussed above, you will lower the grade. I would also suggest that you use the inner (smaller) radius for descending, and the outer, larger radius for ascending.

In my calculations above, there is 14" between the top of the lower deck and bottom of the upper deck. Then I have added 4" for the thickness of the upper deck. If you think you want the overall climb at only 14", then you will really only have 10" between the decks, which may not be enough. You will however, save one turn of the helix.

Andrew

Thanks Andrew

Can you help me with the new measurements here? Im horrible with math, and just looking at the formulas you posted is giving me a headache LOL

10" between the levels would not be enough, i know that for sure now LOL, im thinking 14" should be the minimum and that should be enough room. I also want to add some light strips under the top level for the lower level, so if im going to do that then maybe i should have 16" between the levels, making the total rise 20" right?

so new numbers LOL

20" between the 2 levels.
lets do 28" on the outside track and 24" on the inside track, that should make it a little better then 22 and 24"
4" between the levels on the helix


I think thats it right? I really appreciate all the help ive gotten on this, im saving all this info for when the time comes to bang this out!! The more ive been thinking about it, i think i just wanna have a helix custom built for me, it would save me alot of headaches LOL. I can do benchwork, but im not sure i wanna jump into helix construction lol