Märklin C-track Geometry (Beginner Episode 3)

[@posterbag]

This is perhaps the most helpful marklin video on KZbin! Your videos have helped me immensely!

[@ModelTrainFun]

Him I am glad this video helped you - thanks for watching. Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@ArunTripsNTalks]

This video is required by all amateur modellers..good one

[@ModelTrainFun]

Thrilled you liked it. Have fun :-)

[@ahmetgazizeyrek8129]

I thought I knew all about the C-Track Geometry until I watched this. Has a lot for even experienced. Thank you. I'm looking forward 4 more episodes especially on layout ideas including inclines and tunnels.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad you liked the video. Intend to include more on layout ideas in the future. Any ideas, topics and tips'n'tricks are welcome :-)

[@ryanmchugh3857]

Great video; owned track for 7 years and never knew the detailed nomenclature. Thank you.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad it was helpful! Enjoy ;-)

[@therealrepete]

This video of yours is brilliant!!! Thank you for such a great, comprehensive and understandable lesson of the C track geometry!!

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad it was helpful - enjoy :-)

[@JohnPap_Net]

Regarding curves, here is a piece of information that might prove to be useful to our viewers. If we use three 24130 curves to create a quarter of a curve, then the length of the radius of this quarter is 360mm. If we use three 24230 curves to create a quarter of a curve, then the length of the radius of this quarter is 437,5mm. Excellent tutorial on track geometry. I am happy to have found english speaking tutorials for Märklin products. 👍👍

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi John, Yes - this is useful information. To complete the list. The radius for the Märklin C-track curves are: - R1 360 mm (24130) - R2 437.5 mm (24230) = R1+77.5 mm - R3 515 mm (24330) = R2+77.5 mm - R4 579.3 mm (24430) = R3+64.3 mm - R5 643.6 mm (24530) = R4+64.3 - R9 1114.6 mm (24912) Enjoy ;-)

[@albertwatson1418]

Your explanation on track geometry has been excellent, it has baffled me for some time. Your video and explanation has sorted out all my mistakes in building a layout. Thank you

[@ModelTrainFun]

I am glad it helped. Hope you have fun with your layout ;-)

[@petersmoba9931]

The most important message for beginners is: If you have space enough always use R2 radius or more, never R1.👍 and ABO fro,m Peter

[@ModelTrainFun]

Agreed - use R2 if you have space for it. Unfortunately on small layouts it often tends to be unavoidable. Enjoy ;-)

[@gordospeti]

Is the R2 turnout safer than the curved one? I am asking this because actually I like the looks of the R1 curved turnout better. Thnax.

[@pedrov.piffaut6585]

Hi Model Train Fun, your answer is indeed VERY helpful. Thank you so much for taking the time to explain that, now everything is clear to me. I will stay with Marklin because I really love its trains. I will also keep my M-track system and use the C or K tracks to expand it when going digital. What I heard from someone that had tested this for a long time, is that the turn-outs don't work well with the M-tracks for the DCC system, so this is why I have to add either C or K tracks for these remote turn-outs. By now I will enjoy another of your great videos. Thank you 🙂

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Pedro, I hope you have a fun journey expanding into digital. I do agree that Märklin trains are nice. To me I prefer the C-track as they are easy to use and are very reliable. Have fun with trains - Enjoy ;-)

[@petermcquhae4146]

The 3 beginner episodes were exceptional and I wished I had accessed them before starting building my layout,could have saved a lot of frustration

[@ModelTrainFun]

I am glad you liked the videos. Let me know if you have any ideas, topics and/or tips’n’tricks that would help beginners that I can put in future episodes. Enjoy :-)

[@informatimago]

About Straight tracks, it would have been nice to mention right away that : a) 172 + 188 = 360 = radius R1 (track 24360) b) 172 ≅ 188 * cos(24.3°) c) the distance between R2 and R1 (or R3 and R2) is 188 * sin(24.3°) ≅77.5 mm. (track 24077) d) (172 - 78) * 2 ≅ 94.2 * 2 ≅ 188. (track 24094) The base unit of length is really 360 mm, and the choice of subdividing it into 188 and 172 is imposed by the angle of the turnouts, 24.3°

[@ModelTrainFun]

Excellent - did not know that :-) It really seems like the C-track system is well designed. Thanks! Enjoy your model trains :-)

[@gordospeti]

24:49 - This is a great solution! Your idea is stunning! I do not know why Marklin does not suggest this anywhere...

[@ModelTrainFun]

Thanks - not sure I can take credit for the idea. But yes looks much nicer that the Märklin standard suggested one. Enjoy ;-)

[@panzerkitsune]

Big thanks for maiing these videos, I am learning alot from them, Im just starting in modeltrain hobby with Märklin C-tracks.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Excellent- welcome to the hobby 😜

[@dinosvakalis3908]

Many thanks for this video. Exactly what i was looking for. Thanks again. Greetings from Athens GR

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad it helped - enjoy the hobby :-)

[@あさぎ-k5x]

今日、メルクリンのスタートセットを注文しました。もうすぐ私の ''メルクリン人生'' が始まると思うと、とても楽しみです。分かりやすい動画をありがとうございます・・・　Danke!

[@ModelTrainFun]

I am glad you like the videos - I make them to help Märklin beginners and enthusiasts. Enjoy and have fun with your new starter set ;-)

[@InterCity134]

Brillant Video - and excellent presentation any märklinist beginner should see. Approaching layout design KNOWING the intended grid of 360mm and the standard pieces and how they interact , much better than just connecting things up by eye as you go.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi, glad you enjoyed it and hop it helps making better layouts. Enjoy ;-)

[@Avrenac]

That was really helpful, thank you for your hard work. I just discover your videos and I am very much enjoying them

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad you like them! Enjoy ;-)

[@gregsvideotube]

Fantastic video, please keep them coming.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Thanks, will do!

[@markp213]

I’m so glad I found your channel! This information is very helpful! 😁👍

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad it was helpful! Enjoy ;-)

[@johnkeys22]

you are fantastic!!!!!Congratulations,and thanks for all those details ,that nobody else shows!!!!!!

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi John, Thank you so much! Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@Marienthal1956]

Thank you for this interesting video. Greetings from Belgium :)

[@ModelTrainFun]

Thanks for watching - enjoy 😜

[@alanschultz3858]

Hi Pal just starting in Marklin c track have always been a 2 railer so now new layout Marklin c track on the out side and trix c track on the inside then best of both worlds well I hope so so back to your great vlogs to learn more

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Alan, great - I hope you have fun with your layout. Please let me know how you like the Trix version of the C-track compared to other 2-rail tracks. Enjoy ;-)

[@djlynk1977]

Very nice, I have spent the last few weeks figuring all this out with K track as I resurrect and expand my Marklin setup from my childhood 30+ years ago, soon to be running a multi track K/C set up and have a Mobile station on order 😬...thanks for the informative videos keep up the good work and thanks for the English language 👍

[@ModelTrainFun]

Great to hear that you are resurrecting the hobby - welcome back there is lots of stuff to do with digital. Unfortunately the analogue needs conversion to be able to run digital, but consider a retro-part of the layout. Have fun ;-)

[@djlynk1977]

@@ModelTrainFun Looking forward to it, Mobile station has arrived, taking all of my energy to not rush into opening it before a couple of digital locos arrive and I plan on converting a few of my analogue locos...

[@ModelTrainFun]

LOL - agree patience is a virtue ;-) Hope you will have fun with the digital locomotives!

[@colinallerton1199]

Very helpful for one not good at geometry

[@ModelTrainFun]

Gld you liked it. Enjoy ;-)

[@erik.lindberg89]

Another great explanation!

[@ModelTrainFun]

Thanks again! - enjoy :-)

[@ItZLukeOfficial1508]

This helped me alot! Cause now christmas is coming up, and i will probaly get a starter set with an expansion pack. So then i can build a layout.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hope you get some christmas goodies and can build a layout! Enjoy ;-)

[@mercedes_and_more]

Excellent video. Good to know if wasn't just me so had worked out you could use curved points differently from the "official way".

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad you liked the video! Yes - I always found it weird the way that Märklin promotes the curved point. Note: In some manuals they actually should the "nicer looking" way. Enjoy ;-)

[@petersierksma5374]

Great tutorial!!

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad you liked it! Enjoy ;-)

[@chrisbrown9319]

Very useful video, well presented. Next time I will watch it before fiddling about with the SCARM software for an hour!

[@ModelTrainFun]

H Chris, Glad it was helpful! I takes some time to learn the C-track geometry and some experimental layouts are useful to get to know it. Despite not having a flex track you can make a lot of useful track routing - although it might require some fiddling. Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@chadchase7731]

I like this and everything about this will help me out, my only problem with marklin is, without pics, it may be kind of hard to determine if it's a curve or a straight. The thing I noticed though is how Marklin uses irregular numbers for straights and uniform angling numbers for curves. Very cool!

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Chad, 242xx, 243xx, 244xx, 245xx and 249xx are all curves. For the 231xx series it is a mix of straight and curves. The curve numbers are 24130, 24115 and 24107. Agreed that it can be confusing for the 241xx series. The complete overview of Märklin C-track can be found here: www.maerklin.de/en/products/gauge-h0/tracks/c-track I must admit I have not figured out why there is a 20xxx series - they seem to be similar to the 24xxx series just in different packaging. Enjoy ;-)

[@lassethunmadsen3360]

nice video thanks for information :)

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad you liked it - have fun ;-)

[@gordospeti]

For those who like "s" curves like me: if two R1 30° are put together, their length projected on the x axis is 360 mm.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Péter, cool tip - thanks! Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@nigelhungerford-symes5059]

Great info, thanks for making this video.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Nigel, glad it was helpful! Enjoy ;-)

[@juanantoniosegovia307]

Nice video, thanks.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad you enjoyed it! Enjoy ;-)

[@popsrock6622]

Beautiful job!

[@ModelTrainFun]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@dietmarhabib191]

Excellent tutorial. Will you be making a video for r2 to r3? Or have any layouts?

[@ModelTrainFun]

Might be in a future video. In the meantime - perhaps one of these options will suit you. It is not possible to make it perfect as the 24671/24672 really are R1, so you have to make an approximation. Option 1 & 3 fits exactly with the curve and in my opinion option 3 looks best: 1drv.ms/f/s!AqYmnR5sGgDxgTEEimnxJP2UdCI3 Enjoy ;-)

[@stevenstowarz6047]

Do you guys go to New Jersey by any chance

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Steven, I am wondering if this was for the American Märklin guys? I live in Abu Dhabi and will not be coming to New Jersey any time soon. Sorry. Have fun with trains ;-)

[@runeljungstrommer331]

Very useful, thx!

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad you liked it - enjoy 😜

[@massimozecchini440]

Bravo, chiaro e grazie

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Massimo, Glad you liked it - Enjoy ;-)

[@16jan1986]

The only reason why i stick to m track is that their colour works much better as sand ballast....if märklin will ever make c in sand coulour i would change right away

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi, Indeed - m track is still a great track to use. However, there are many ways of ballasting track and I have seen many great ballasted layouts with either k- or c-track as well. Personally, I have yet to dive into this area of model trains. Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@MrAlottof]

Really good information, tnx👍

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi, Glad it was helpful! Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@pedrov.piffaut6585]

Hi - Thank you for a very interesting video to watch and the visual aspects help a lot. I have a question for the experts: I used to run analog Marklin trains on M tracks, and now I would like to switch to DCC: What would be the best way to go DCC in terms of tracks (M, C, or K)? Should I use Marklin or another brand of tracks? Please, I would be grateful if someone could help me with this. Thank you!!!

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Pedro, I am glad you liked the video! I understand that you are asking which tracks are best with digital locomotives? You can use any of the tracks for digital locomotives - even the old M-track. This means you could just buy a digital Märklin locomotive and a MS2 or CS3 and use that on your layout as it is now. An easy way to get started with digital is to buy a start set with MS2 & digital locomotive. You cannot use digital and analogue on the same track at the same time. However, you can shift between analogue and digital by changing from analogue transformer to digital controller and removing the analogue locomotives from the track. You can go back by changing from the digital controller to the analogue transformer. Almost all digital locomotives can run on the analogue track. This way you can transition to digital on your current layout and for a while shift between analogue and digital. Later you can upgrade your analogue locomotives to digital. I do not have any experience with running digital locomotive on M-track, so I do not know if there is a catch. You are also asking which track to use for DCC. Are you asking about going to Märklin digital or completely go away from Märklin 3-rail system? I do not know anything about 2-rail - except that you can get the equivalent to Märklin C-track from Trix. For 3-rail the choice is mostly about taste & preference. If you want new track for digital I would propose the C-track. But many do not like the look of C-track and prefer the look of K-track. Both can be used with Märklin digital. Do remember that on the Märklin 3-rail tracks you can drive both Märklin digital (MM/MM2/MFX) and DCC using the MS2 or CS3. However, the locomotive must have been built for 3-rail tracks supporting the middle track as you know from your M-track where the locomotive has a slider underneath. Other brands such as Brawa, PIKO and Roco also make 3-rail digital locotives. If you do not want to use 3-rail anymore and go to 2-rail, then you cannot use Märklin locomotives but other brands offer locomotives for 2-rail. The Märklin track cannot be used for 2-rail, but you can use the Trix C-track, which is equivalent to the Märklin C-track. I do not have any experience with 2-rail tracks. In short: you could start by using your current layout, upgrade to newer Märklin 3-rail or shift to 2-rail. It will mostly depend on the size of your wallet and your preferences. Hop this helps. Enjoy ;-)

[@hansgutsch6459]

Realy good

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad you think so! Enjoy ;-)

[@yflow5337]

Have you got some videos about PIKO module?

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi YFlow - I assume you are asking about PIKO tracks? Unfortunately I do not have anything about the PIKO track geometry - sorry. Enjoy model trains ;-)

[@yflow5337]

@@ModelTrainFun Thanks for answer! I make rail models in 3DSMAX, fully calculate all geometry parameters of track length, radius with 100% accuracy with formulas. But stuck on question about sleepers interval and count on different track elements!

[@ModelTrainFun]

@@yflow5337 Unfortunately I do not have any PIKO tracks. I know that the Märklin C-tracks have been designed to have equal sleeper spacing for most tracks. I am not familiar with how this has been done with PIKO tracks. 3DSMAX - isn't this a CAD drawing tool? Why not consider one of the programs dedicated to drawing model train layouts? I use SCARM and I see they have the following PIKO tracks in the library: - PIKO G - PIKO H0 A-track - PIKO H0 A-track (with roadbed) - PIKO H0 A-track (concrete sleepers) - PIKO H0 Standard Discontinued track system - PIKO H0 Modell Discontinued track system - PIKO N There are also other softwares out there - this is the one I used. Look around. Enjoy ;-)

[@yflow5337]

@@ModelTrainFun Yes, its CAD. I make models for visualisation and animation. Also its possible to make simulations with scripting language! Thanks for recomendations!

[@ModelTrainFun]

@@yflow5337 Many programs for making model train track layouts include the ability to model landscapes and some also offer simulations of trains on the track. I guess the most famous is WinTrack 3D. However, it is a very complex program ;-)

[@damiendayx]

Nice👍

[@ModelTrainFun]

Thanks - have fun ;-)

[@docteurgreene]

Very very interesing! :) I am about to buy a HO Trix C-track starter set and I would like to know if what you said about the Marklin C track (3 rails) is also 100% valid for the Trix C tracks (2 rails) ? Thanks.

[@ModelTrainFun]

The geometry of the Märklin and Trix C-track are the same. In fact the Märklin tracks are numbered 24xxx and you will find the same Trix track as 62xxx. So Märklin 24130 and Trix 62130 is the same curved R1 30 degree track in 3-rail (Märklin) and 2-rail (Trix) edition. Enjoy ;-)

[@docteurgreene]

@@ModelTrainFun Thanks for the confirmation :) I watched a lot of your others vids and I will learn a lot. suscribed :)

[@ModelTrainFun]

@@docteurgreene I am glad you like the videos. Enjoy ;-)

[@len_1090]

When is there gonna be a more advanced episode on the wide angle double slip switch and the wide radius turnout , wide angle crossing and other crossings etc Just a guide on the more comprehensive marklin c tracks would be nice

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Lennart, I intend to look into more geometry videos this winter. Unfortunately the Märklin 24720 wide angle double is not available yet. My idea is to wait till this one is available. Let's see. Hope you have fun with trains. Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@len_1090]

@@ModelTrainFunthanks for answering I had an Marklin trainset that was originally from my father when he was young and I’m now transitioning everything from analog to digital so you’re beginner videos were really helpful

[@ModelTrainFun]

@@len_1090 Hope you find the digital world joyful. I prefer digital as it gives you a lot of options. Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@len_1090]

Hi bo, just started using my new starter set but I’m having issues on certain points on the track where my loc loses all power. What should I do to fix this problem?

[@jenserikebbesen9483]

Very well explained. I have a question though. Lets sat you have an oval consisting of either R1 or R2 half curves at both ends connected with straight tracks in between the two half curves. How do you make a diagonal track going from one side to the other hence changing direction of the train running on the oval? Thanks again for your very informative videos.

[@ModelTrainFun]

I have not discovered an easy way to do this from a purely geometrical way. I usually start by making the two ends of the oval, connect turnouts to these, and start connecting. Always do it in a symetrical way - it can be tweaked later. It usually takes a few tries with different length of track to get it to fit. I have made a couple of examples you can look at (zoom to see track numbers): - R1 01: 1drv.ms/u/s!AqYmnR5sGgDxgQvZUzpygRqEieo_ - R1 02: 1drv.ms/u/s!AqYmnR5sGgDxgQrAy6fQOu0M05Sp - R2 01: 1drv.ms/u/s!AqYmnR5sGgDxgQkQOX1ASJ5zf9U1 - R2 02: 1drv.ms/u/s!AqYmnR5sGgDxgQwtsOE27bRthmXf Anybody discovered an easy geometrical way to describe these? Hope it helps - enjoy ;-)

[@topportret]

super , thank you

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Jan, Glad you liked it - happy model train fun! Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@gordospeti]

18:12 - The configuration of R1+R1/R1+R1 results in parallel tracks with both parallel tracks starting exactly from y-axis. Well, would the config of R1+R2/R1+R2 bring the same result? Thanx very much in advance!

[@ModelTrainFun]

Yes that works. Generally speaking if you make 2x the same curves curving to the same side (no s-curve), then it will end in the desired parallel distance. Enjoy ;-)

[@gordospeti]

@@ModelTrainFun Thanx, awesome!

[@420tommeh]

great content thank you

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad you like it. Enjoy ;-)

[@piotrmkg]

Would be great to update this video with wide turnouts Märklin makes now.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Piotr, yes - agree especially since the new Märklin 24720 wide-angle double slip has been announced as autumn new item. When I get this one, I will look into making another video. I have also been considering track geometry tips for stations and small layouts. I have quite a few tips written down that I think could be useful. Enjoy ;-)

[@piotrmkg]

@@ModelTrainFun BTW maybe You can tell me and others (here or in future video) why distance between tracks R1/R2, R2/R3 is 77,5mm but between R3/R4 and R4/R5 is 64,3mm

[@ModelTrainFun]

@@piotrmkg Märklin has designed the curves to fit narrow curves on small layouts and wide curves on larger layouts. The normal turnouts give a slightly greater distance between the tracks while the wide-angle turnouts support a smaller distance that is a little more prototypical. In this way the C-track program supports a wide range of how people built their layouts. The idea is that you can use R1/R2/R3 curves on smaller layouts where the distance fits the angles in the normal turnouts. This yields a slightly larger distance between the tracks due to the angle of the turnouts. The reason for this is the normal turnouts have a sharper angle and when you go from one track to another you need a little more distance so the train can pass in a natural way. It is basically a question of geometry. On larger layouts you can use the R3/R4/R5 curves that fit with wide angle turnouts. The wide-angle turnouts support a slightly smaller distance between the tracks. Again, due to geometry the trains can move naturally between tracks with a slightly smaller distance that with the normal turnout. All in all, the reason is the geometry of the turnouts must support a smooth transition between parallel tracks, which in turn determines the distance. Hope this helps. Enjoy ;-)

[@henryt4710]

Hi, it’s me again with another question: do you have a tutorial or experience with the Märklin K track flex track (2205)? I am trying to mix a section of flex track in my C track layout in order to get a somewhat random, gentle curve. Thanks in advance for your help 🙏🙏🙏

[@ModelTrainFun]

Sorry - I do not have experience with the flex track. Do remember there is a 24922 that connects K- and C-track. Other options are: 1. Consider mixing curve sizes for making unusual curves. An example is 24130, 24230 followed by a 24330. This will be a sharp curve that becomes more gentle throughout the quarter of a circle. In the same way you can use the smaller pieces to make interesting curves like 24107 followed by 24207 and 24315. 2. Use larger curves R4 and R5 e.g. 24430 and 24540. Use the 24912 for really large curves. 3. Mix in the R4/R5/24912 with the curves of option 1 above. You can actually get quite some interesting curves. It can be difficult to make it fit together, so be patient and try many variations. Enjoy ;-)

[@henryt4710]

@@ModelTrainFun Thank you very much for the prompt reply. The last point was exactly what I was worried about - making it fit😅😅😅

[@pappyjoe1955]

Hello . Thank you very much for these very interesting videos. In your beginner video 3 you talk about the curves R1, R2 and R3. But what is the radius of each of these semicircles from the central rail? Thank you so much.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Joël, The radius for the curves are: R1 = 360 mm, R2 = 437.5 mm and R3 = 515 mm. This is measured to the center of the rail. Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@DanielBrejcha-zb9bv]

Hello Bo, I cant find what is the diference between 20330 and 24330. Could you help please? Tom

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Daniel, as I understand it, they are the same - the only difference is that the 20xxx series is in a "Märklin Startup" packaging with a lot more plastic. I usually stick with the 24xxx series as on all picture I find the color of the 20xxx series seem to vary more and might look odd with the 24xxx series. However, I do not have any from the 20xxx series to compare. Let me know if you have any - or compare at your favorite Märklin dealer. Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@Kal.556]

Is it possible to get marklin flex track?

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi, Yes - Märklin K-track has flex track (Märklin 2205). Due to the 3-rail I am told the Märklin is more stiff than 2-rail variants. Some prefer K-track over C-track due to the more natural look of the K-track. C-track and K-tracks can be mixed using the Märklin 24922 Adapter Track for K Track. You often see layouts with mixed C- and K-track e.g. C-track in shadow station and K-track in visible parts. You also see C-track on entire layout except a few spots where a flex track is desired. Some have also cut in the C-track to make it semi-flexible: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGLap5impdKhpac Hope this helps! Enjoy ;-)

[@ModelTrainFun]

A new tutorial on how to make your own C-track flexi track available by Emma 73: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qXfMqmyuabihqrM

[@Kal.556]

@@ModelTrainFun dude your an absolute life saver! Thank you so much!

[@Kal.556]

@@ModelTrainFun am I able to use K track and C track with AC engines?

[@ModelTrainFun]

@@Kal.556 The Märklin C- and K-tracks are 3-rail tracks. You must use a locomotive with a "slider" underneath to pickup the 3rd rail. I believe when you are asking about AC engines you refer to 3-rail - hence, then answer is yes ;-)

[@mariebcfhs9491]

As much as I love the simplicity of Marklin tracks, I can't help but noticing the very tight radii of the curves. I run passenger trains and they look ridiculous on tight turns.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Titalac, Agree that long passenger trains look weird on tight curves. I only show the 3 smallest radius in this video: R1, R2 & R3. In addition to that you have R4, R5 and an odd R9. There are also some wide radius turnouts. Passenger trains look a lot better on R3 and up. However, it all depends on your space available. Enjoy ;-)

[@mariebcfhs9491]

@@ModelTrainFun thank you!

[@stefanzantes8818]

Hi, thank you for a very nice video tutorial, very interesting to watch also in visual aspects! I plan to start in H0 digital, but would prefer Trix over Märklin. Not sure, if the geometry is still the same?

[@ModelTrainFun]

You can also get the C-tracks for Trix. As I understand it they are exactly the same just for 2-rail. Note that modern Märklin digital MFX components also supports DCC, so you can use the same digital components- just make sure it says “DCC”.

[@JOIT2BE]

This video I needed! You have any tips or vid's I want to use a transformator to control my turn outs and lights on a digital c-rail and what transfo do I use best?

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Joël, I am glad you enjoyed the video! Before making separate powering of turnouts consider if it is necessary - generally it is enough to divide into power districts using boosters. For lights I will always suggest to power separately. I have some videos to show how to make the turnouts work digitally with C-track: kzbin.info/www/bejne/npulkGCdppxjZ5o and kzbin.info/www/bejne/lWfPeH6HaLudaLM. However, I do not have a video about how to use separate power supply. If you are just using the decoder built into the C-track (Märklin 74460/74461/74462) you can only power the light separately as shown on page 30 in the manual): static.maerklin.de/damcontent/21/f9/21f96ba162e61a1e5f8caba72a3bfe431671170112.pdf If you are using the M83 (Märklin 60831/60832), then you can provide separately power for the M83 using the Märklin 60822 to provide extra power. There is a video showing how to use the M83 for turnouts: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m3jIqaqKesp5kKc However, I do not have a video on using the Märklin 60822. Finally, consider dividing your layout into power districts and using boosters. This is probably the best solution as it generally provides mode power for your layout and make troubleshooting short-circuits easier on larger layouts as you can isolate sections of the layout. If you have a Central Station 3 (CS3), then you need the Märklin 60175 booster. Unfortunately, I do not have a video on this. For the lights you can use a general power supply or power supplies for the light system of your choice (e.g. Faller or Viessmann). This really depends on the lights you choose. Also consider using DC lights instead of AC lights if you want to avoid light flickering when making videos of your layout. You can see an example of the flickering here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/m6CZZp1-ltSKp6c If you have an entire layout with AC lights everything will flicker. Hope this helps! Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@trenpichon4261]

Tren pichón. See In you Tube my friend

[@ModelTrainFun]

Glad you like it! Enjoy ;-)

[@gordospeti]

Now I am thinking of building my layout using standard curved turnouts, but I am a bit afraid that there will be locos not liking the tight curves. Though I would like to run locos and wagons shorter than 20cm.

[@ModelTrainFun]

The issue is often space. If you have a small room with little space (like my 2x1.2m table), then using R1 curves and the standard curved turnout is not a bad option. If you have a huge model train room, then go for the wider curves. The trick is to find the best option that fits you and your layout. Don't forget to test out your track layout for a long time before settling on the final plan. Do you have a big train room or are you looking at a limited space layout? Enjoy the hobby ;-)

[@ModelTrainFun]

BTW: I use the standard curved turnouts and rarely have issues. If there is an issue it is usually a question on adjusting the slider (grinder) under a locomotive or car. But granted bigger curves will give less issues. I have not tried the new 24771/24772 curved turnouts and do not know how well these work (ask around). Enjoy ;-)

[@gordospeti]

@@ModelTrainFun Thanx for your answers! But sorry, what do mean by "adjusting the slider (grinder) under a locomotive or car?" Marklin has been producing short locos and wagons, and if they can run properly on the tight-curved turnouts, I will be happy.

[@ModelTrainFun]

As there is a third rail on Märklin C-track a metal slider is used to pickup power from this third rail. The slider is also named a pickup or sometimes nicknamed the grinder. A wornout slider or in case you accidentially bent it it will get less reliable. This slides can easily be replaced if needed and you can adjust it if it got bent. However, for my case I rarely have issues with the curved turnout and run all of my locomotives and cars (short and long) through these turnouts.

[@gordospeti]

@@ModelTrainFun Wow, that slider! Thanx! To be honest, I have lots of room for a layout, but I like Marklin's tight-curved turnouts the best, that is why I wanna use them. Also, I prefer small, minimalistic layouts. I guess the basic left and right turnouts (20611 and 20612) are more reliable...

[@Holcheer]

👍👍🚂

[@ModelTrainFun]

Thanks for watching - have fun :-)

[@marcelburger2436]

There are turns after the turnboutsc226

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Marcel, not quite sure I understand your comment. Are you talking about the wide turnouts? Then I agree they are not included in this video. Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@jerryfischkes1536]

Hello. For the life of me I cannot find a video which describes how to uncouple HO Marklin rolling stock by hand. Computerized yes, but by hand, no. Just the right technique will do. I am using the C track and an am enjoying the journey. I am a beginner but really appreciate Marklin quality. Can you refer me to a video or an article that could help me? Thanks, and i enjoy your videos very much.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Jerry, perhaps this video can help? kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4PKaYirmL1rgqs Let me know. Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@patrav5542]

Heloo nice videos. How is it with the new R4 and R5 turnouts? Basically the same geometri?

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Pat, Same geometric ideas. However, R1/R2/R3 has one distance and R3/R4/R5 has a smaller distance. The turnouts in this video fits the distance between R1/R2/R3. To match the distance with the R3/R4/R5 you need the wide radius turnouts 24711/24712 with crossovers 24740 (& upcoming 24720) or the curved turnouts 24771/24772. The 24711/24712 turnouts have a length of the 24236, the 24229 can be used at a cross-over and the 24912 (R9) makes the parallel track. The 24711/2471 must have a 24071 on each leg at the "split end" to fit together. You can see this in the 24711/24712 manual on page 7: static.maerklin.de/damcontent/ce/0a/ce0a37108e16e50c07a0b2673af801f61663836005.pdf The 24771/24772 curved turnouts must have a 24315 on each leg at the "split end" to fit together. The 24771/24772 curved turnouts are a 24064 with an 24330 (R3) curve like the 24671/24672 in this video is a 24077 with a 24210 (R1) curve. The 24771/24772 can form R3 crossover. You can see this in the 24771/24772 manual on page 7: static.maerklin.de/damcontent/93/0a/930ad4e21e9f52121421536afdaa6e471569315357.pdf Hope this helps! I intend to make another video on wide-radius C-track geometry as well - sometime in the future. Enjoy ;-)

[@prashanthl8394]

@@ModelTrainFun Thank you for this information I have been looking for this information for quite some time now. I am glad I read the comments. I have one question though. Since the R3 - R4 - R5 tracks have a different distance between them and the wide-angle turnouts 24711 and 24712 are used between these, does it mean that the wide-angle turnouts can't be used between R1 - R2 - R3? And similarly, the regular turnouts 24611 and 2612 can't be used with R3 - R4 - R5?

[@ModelTrainFun]

@@prashanthl8394 Yes and No. As you state the 24611/24612 turnouts fit well with the R1 R2 R3 and the 24711/24712 fit well with the R3 R4 R5. This is the standard way and makes the geometry easy. However, you could ease the tracks closer or further apart on strait sections. This might look odd though, so it will look more natural if you ease the tracks closer or further apart in the curves. You can make something that will look nice while increasing or decreasing the distance. Using curves to change distance between track is a method I often use. An example: inner curve R1, R1, R2 while the outside curve is R2, R2, R2. This means you got the inner curve closer to the outside curve. However, it also means that the ends are no longer aligned, so you also have to have different length straight track. The example does not change the distances you want but gives an example. Hope this helps! Enjoy ;-)

[@ernesto5990]

I always follow your videos with great interest even if I have a little trouble with the language, in particular I really appreciated this video, but I'm missing one thing .... how do I assemble the tracks well with the 3-way switch ? so that the output remains straight .... thanks .... google translate

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Ernesto, I am glad you like the videos and I hope they help you. The 3-way turnout has same geometry as a standard turnout - just only able to turn one way. As with the standard turnout you can use the 24224 curve to get back to straight. Enjoy ;-)

[@paulklasmann1218]

Just coming back to model railways since I was a kid and I can't get used to this third conductor in the middle. Is this standard nowadays? I would have thought that the purists wouldn't like it.

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi PK, you can find 2-rail model trains and tracks these days as well - so you have the choice and purists prefer the 2-rail. Enjoy ;-)

[@muhammadshahid5422]

Hello sir hi you doing. Sir my name is shahid from Pakistan actually I need that train tracks so kindly let me know how I avail that thanks I'll wait for your kind reply

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Muhammad, You can buy the tracks in a Märklin model train store. You can find a store using the Märklin store locator: www.maerklin.de/en/service/store-locator Unfortunately, I do not see a store in Pakistan. Consider ordering from a large online store in Germany e.g. www.haertle.de, www.modellbahn-kramm.com, www.modellbahnshop-lippe.com. Check out which ones ship to Pakistan. You can also use the Märklin online shop: www.maerklinshop.de/en Hope this helps. Enjoy ;-)

[@muhammadshahid5422]

@@ModelTrainFun thank you sir for your reply and I appreciate you take care

[@aliaksin]

Who says that the standard in Märklin C-Track is 188?

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Ali, I recall seeing this on the Märklin web-site once, but maybe I am imagining it. In practice the 24188 is usually the most used straight track with this others used for adjustments. However, when you get more advanced you use it a lot less... I guess I should have said most used instead? Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@aliaksin]

It is because once 24360 was not produce by Märklin and physcologically 24188 was closest length to 180 mm, which was the standard. Theoretically standart was "24188+24172 divide by 2". That makes 180 exact standard length. Märklin later produced 24360 which were a combination of the two.

[@ModelTrainFun]

​@@aliaksinThanks for the info. Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@ei-chengchen3187]

Like, like, like, like

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Chen, Glad you liked the video. Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@runesvensson1244]

Do you speak with a Danish accent? :-)

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hejsa Rune - ja - jeg er dansker ;-) Bo

[@Luke6619]

Machs doch einfach in deutsch.....

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Luke, unfortunately my German is not too good. However, do remember that you can turn on subtitles and KZbin can auto-translate to German. Enjoy ;-) Bo

[@ei-chengchen]

Gebr. Märklin & Cie. Ltd.Great new product

[@ModelTrainFun]

Hi Ei-Cheng, I also like the C-track. Enjoy ;-)