I floated this on the P:48 FB page for comments, and would like to solicit comments here as well. This could be of interest to anyone who may want to consider trying out P:48 without making a big investment in time, rolling stock, etc. For example, anyone could build a simple intro module and convert an Atlas O Trainman freight car or two.
This is nothing more than a though experiment at this time. My 'dream goal' would be to build a couple of modules as a proof-of-concept and take them to a Denver area show, perhaps the OSN this coming June or next. (If-you-build-it-they-will-come
) No commitment at this point, but the starting point is to have a line in the sand to build with.
Here is a first pass at a list of proposed P:48 adaptations of the base Free-Mo standard at:
http://www.free-mo.org/standard/ (relevant sections as referenced). All comments and feedback are most welcome! Everything here is fair game.
(NB: Supplemental Free-Mo Module standards and RPs (i.e., for Branchline and Mini-Mo) are to be addressed at a future time.)
S2.2 Railheads to be 3/4" above top edge of endplate.
S2.3 Double-track endplates to be 28 inches wide (TBD: minimum?). Railheads to be 3/4" above top edge of endplate. Double track spaced 1 7/8" from module centerline (15 scale feet on track centerlines).
S2.4 Roadbed may use cork or other material, of any thickness as needed per code rail used. Plywood subroadbed suggested but not mandated.
S3.1 Track details (e.g., tie plates, joint bars) suggested but not required. Details shall not interfere with Proto:48 conformant wheels.
S3.2 Track centerlines must be 6 inches or more from all module side edges.
S3.4 Track centerline spacing to be 3.75 inches (15 scale feet).
S3.5, S3.6 Through route track shall be perpendicular/straight/level for at least 12 inches from each end of the module.
RP3.6.1 Turnout points to be not less than 12" from end of module.
S3.7 All through track rail ends to be flush with endplates and supported (i.e., have an underlying crosstie) within 1/4" or less from the rail end.
RP 3.7.1 TBD
RP 3.7.2 PCB ties optional.
RP 3.7.3 N/A
S3.9 Minimum 24 inches without easements, or 18 inches with spiral easements.
S3.10 Mainline module rail to be code 138.
S3.11 Rail to be code 138 or smaller, but not less than Code 100 (would/could code 83 work?)
S3.12 Minimum radius to be 76 inches
RP 3.12.1 96 inch or larger radius suggested.
S3.13 TBD
S3.15 TBD
S4.x All Post-2015 requirements shall apply.
S4.2, S4.2.1 Consider 12 AWG or larger?
S6.3 Flat profile to be 3/4" below top of rails.
S6.4, S6.5, RP6.5.1 N/A
Thanks for looking!
Ed
