Tie spacing

[captturk]

I'm building a railroad, alittle different than most. Instead of modeling a mainline standard gauge like most people, I'm doing a backwoods narrow gauge, mining/ logging/ industrial type road.
Since narrow gauge usually had the ties spaced much farther apart than standard, I want to try to copy it.
My question for the engineering types is how far apart can I space the ties and have sufficent strenght? I'm using FLS aluminum rail. 1 1/2" x 13" wood ties. My calculated maximum axle loading will be 300 lbs. Most of the equipment will be 2.5 to 3" scale. This will be a home railroad and not club.

[ngtmodels]

Hello,

Looking for somewhat the same info myself. Can anyone tell me (us) what the 'standard' tie spacing was (is) on the D&RGW narrow gauge, please?

Zoë

[raymbo]

You will need to space ties about 3 per foot even if it is a backwoods model because the models themselves are what you are supporting, not an actual model weighing in at the prototype scaled down. Weight is still weight.

I am just getting started in this myself and I visited a very large layout in OH this weekend. They are building a logging line off the main line but from what I gathered they are still going to have to support their equipment and the track will have to have 3 ties per foot.

I hope this helps but be reminded that I am new to this and there might be two others with 5 more opinions.