Kab Fourword
I took that Cab Forward consist out for a lap around the layout. I accelerated up to 50mph then held that speed. Time for one lap = 9 minutes; distance = 7 miles.
I've also done some work on the track grades. This is end result:
Yes, it's very difficult to follow so, just for photographic purposes, I replaced the timber sleeper track with trestles and it's considerably easier to follow:
Generally, the maximum gradient is about 2.5%. There are a few places where the grade is steeper but these can be classified "momentum gradients" where the consist builds up sufficient speed going downhill to surmount the uphill section. Such grades were certainly used here in Australia. Question -- were they also used in North America?
I ran the Cab Forward around the layout again. The trailing load with those grain cars fully loaded with wheat is a shade over 1,000 tons. In Cab Mode it was a struggle in places but I completed the test lap. The e-spec used in that locomotive is "US Big Steam enginespec". I haven't tried DDC Mode. I don't know how locomotives with other e-specs will perform.
Question -- what loads were the Cab Forwards expected to haul on 2.5% grades?
It's the next bit that fills me with fear -- the terra-forming to made it look like the track was fitted to the terrain rather than the opposite. Wish me luck. I will need it.