Helix Builder™ — Plan, Cut, and Build a Better Helix
If you’ve ever built a model railroad helix (or tried to), you already know the common problems: unclear dimensions, changing grades, re-cutting parts, and assemblies that never quite line up. Our new digital package was created to solve those issues.
Helix Builder™ is a comprehensive, build-ready system that helps you plan your helix and fabricate it with confidence. Unlike basic helix calculators that stop at grade math, Helix Builder™ produces practical outputs you can build from—backed by clear shop drawings and comprehensive instructions and practical tips and advice.
Who This Is For
- Builders who want to DIY a helix from plywood with accurate parts and proven drawings
- Anyone trying to reduce re-cuts, guesswork, and “almost fits” assemblies
- Modelers who want to estimate track length, footprint, and clearance before committing
How It Works
- Enter your design inputs (radius, roadbed width, grade target, rise per turn, turns, segment count, etc.).
- Review outputs (rise, run, clearance, inside/outside dimensions).
- Cut parts using the generated cut list and build using the included shop drawings and references.
Key Features
- Total Rise output (overall helix height)
- Total Run output (total track length estimate)
- Maximum Clearance output (verify equipment clearance; subtract rail height as needed)
- Supports fractional turns (in 1/12-turn steps) to match real entry/exit positions
- Supports multiple helix styles (circular, elongated/oval, and advanced configurations)
Cut and Build Using Our Shop Drawings and Proven Design
- Shop drawings for each part and assembly
- Photos of actual assemblies
- Detailed instructions
- Guidance for more complex helix designs
- Uses a superior 12-sided design to eliminate dips and humps
- Uses less material than circular segment designs
- More consistent grades versus threaded rod type assemblies
- Faster assembly time
FAQ
Is Helix Builder™ just a calculator?
No. Helix Builder™ is a digital design-and-build package that generates a cut list and includes professional shop drawings and guidance pages. It’s intended to help you build accurately—not just calculate a grade.
Can I build more than a simple circular helix?
Yes. Helix Builder™ supports circular and elongated/oval configurations, plus advanced concepts shown in the included reference pages and drawings.
Does it help me estimate track length?
Yes. Helix Builder™ includes a Total Run output so you can estimate your total track requirements before you start.
Does it help me confirm clearance?
Yes. Helix Builder™ includes a Maximum Clearance output. Be sure to subtract rail height and confirm your tallest equipment clears supports.
See the Full Details Here: Helix Builder™ — Digital Helix Design & Build Package
Helix Builder™ is a Trademark of The Model Railroad Benchwork Store/Model Railway Techniques.com and may not be reproduced, copied, or redistributed in any way without prior written consent by The Model Railroad Benchwork Store/Model Railway Techniques.com
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Last Updated on 1 day ago ago by James from Model Railway Techniques
