Lionel D-27 Layout

[jbialstock]

This is my version of the Lionel D-27 dealer display. It's 4' x 8' using Atlas code 55 N scale track, 15" radius curves. The dashed red portion of the track is in the hidden section of the baseboard. I'm planning to run this with a Kato ES44AC pulling a train of Bethgon Coalporter hoppers. Kato says their locomotives can make a 4% grade without derailing. Has anyone else tried building and/or operating any version of this layout in any scale?

[freescopesdad]

I'm a bit confused. Is the red hidden portion also your elevated track? If so, if you limit your crossover height to about 2" your grade is about 3.25%. Of course any grade is made more difficult if it is on a curve. As to whether your Kato ES44AC can mount this grade, yes by itself. But whether it can while hauling coal hoppers depends on the number of hoppers, their weight, etc. You might need to pair that Kato with another diesel in consist. If you already have the track, loco and stock, try it and see before you attach anything permanently. My quick scan of posts in other forums range from yes to no to maybe. It also looks like you have plenty of room to lower the grade with longer approaches.