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Sizing cars, locos and trains for optimal running
What looks best for O gauge depends on the size of cars, the length of consists and the choice of motive power. In this case, size does matter. It is all in how sizes are used that the look of a train is improved or diminished.
We have three scales within O: 1/48, Classic (about 1/55), and O27 (1/64). The differences are conspicuous. Likewise, there is the issue how they look on different size pikes. Size and track work make a difference in a train's running.
On large pikes with long straightaways and curves of 42" or better, larger cars are in order. Scale cars look best, especially when it comes to passenger consists. Small cars are passable, but do not match the visual appeal of long cars and long trains gliding through gentle curves. Of course, on a large pike with tortuous, tight curves, long Heavyweights might not work so well. The Madison would be a better choice, and Classic - sized freights would work well.
Large pikes demand longer trains, provided there are long straightaways and gentle curves. A freight train of twelve cars looks good, and twenty looks better. Passenger liners can abide five to twelve cars easily. Freight trains with fewer than ten pieces look almost silly, as do passenger consist smaller than four cars.. Tightly-curved pikes with less straightaway can handle longer trains, yet will abide small consists well. in fact, a smaller consist of ten to fifteen pieces may very well be in order.
Small pikes invariably have tight curves. Longer scale cars are at a disadvantage. The best picks are Classic and O27 sizes. These allow as much action as a Scale train, in 2/3 to 3/4 of the space. Likewise, short trains are in order. A twelve-car freight is very long for a short pike, as would be a seven-car passenger liner. Small pikes do best with passenger consists under six cars, and freights under twelve. Optimal is a three-to-five car passenger consist and a seven to nine car freight.
Larger pikes abide almost any locomotive, even the biggest scale pieces. Small pikes require smaller motive power. An F unit in 1/48 would work well on either. Many small pikes can get by easily with semi-scale locomotives like the classic O Gauge S2 turbine, Pacific and Hudson, while large pikes demand longer semi-scale locos and Scale Hudsons and Pacifics. The very small pikes do best with small models, such as the diecast baby 4-4-2, Docksider and O27 Pacific. For diesel, a small pike can look good with standard F units, yet will thrive with the smaller Alco FA and other semi-scale diesels.
Pick your scale for your pike. A very large pike, like a club pike, does best with scale pieces. medium sized pikes might abide scale, and will definitely go well with Classic sized cars. Small and very small pikes tend toward Classic and O27 sizes, even though they look good with Scale F units, switchers and GPs. Trai nset diecast steamers, though derided by collectors and scale fans, are superb for very small pikes. They can do things that classic size steamers cannot!