Curve Modules by Shane Lambert
To facilitate larger Free-moS setups I am planning to build a number of 45 degree curve sections. With the help of Robert Sterner who models HO Scale Free-mo, we have worked out the geometry for simple parallelogram shaped modules as show below. Unfortunately, in order to maintain a minium radius of 42 inches, with 9 inches of straight and an easement, we had to invoke Standard 3.2.1 to make this work.
Single Track Curve
My single track curve modules will be simple scenery only modules at first. I plan to build 4 of these so we can bend the layout a full 180 degrees as needed. These all need to be exactly the same dimensions so that it could be possible, with some helper modules, to create a reverse loop with them.
Module Specifications
- Type:
- Single Track Curve Module
- Length:
- 6 Feet
- Width:
- 24 Inches
- Track:
- Tomalco Code 100 flex track
- Radius:
- 42 inches minimum
- Scenery:
- Basic ground cover
Double Track Curve
I am not currently planning any double track modules but I wanted to put together a plan in case someone else wants to build some. Unfortunately, geometry forces the outside curve very close to the edge (about 1 1/16 inch), so something will need to be done to protect trains during derailment. One suggestion would be to provide a clamp on scenery wedge for these modules. Otherwise a different shape module will be needed for double track curves.
Module Specifications
- Type:
- Double Track Curve Module
- Length:
- 6 Feet
- Width:
- 26 Inches
- Track:
- Tomalco Code 100 flex track
- Radius:
- 42 inches minimum inside, 45 1/8 inches outside
- Scenery:
- Basic ground cover
Check Out My Other Modules
Below is a list of modules that I am planning to build. Click on a module name to learn more about it. See all of my Modules.
Module | Group | Length | Industries | Status | ETA |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ready Mix Concrete | CNW La Crosse | 5 feet | 1 | In Progress | Spring, 2025 |
C&NW Indian Hill District | CNW La Crosse | 20 feet | 5 | In Planning | Summer, 2025 |
C&NW La Crosse Yard | CNW La Crosse | 20 feet | 1 | In Planning | Winter, 2025 |
End Modules | 2 feet | 0 | In Planning | Spring, 2026 | |
Second Street, La Crosse, WI | CB&Q Zone 3 | 15 feet | 9 | In Planning | Fall, 2026 |
West Avenue - La Crosse, WI | CB&Q Zone 3 | 15 feet | 5 | In Planning | Winter, 2025-2026 |
Heileman Brewery | CB&Q Zone 3 | 20 feet | 9 | In Planning | Spring, 2026 |
Los Angeles Produce Terminal | 18 feet | 1 | In Planning | Spring, 2027 |