Tracing track for your module is one of the most
challenging and rewarding parts of creating a module. To reduce
derailments and other problems, care needs to be taken to ensure that
all curves are as wide and smooth as possible. Large passenger
trains with long cars and steam engines with many wheels typically need
smooth wide turns. We want to make sure this module allows all the
club members to run whatever trains they wish so we are giving the turns as
wide a radius as possible. You shouldn't run into too much
difficulty as long as you keep your turn radius 14" or more.
There are many ways to draw a smooth radius for your
module or layout. We chose to place a screw in the center of the
module and use a piece of string looped to a permanent marker to trace
out the center portion of the track. We allowed 1.5" of room on
each side of the edge of the layout so that trains are not running too
close to the edge. Bend Track has two tracks, so we have to draw
two curves. The first has a radius of 17", the second has a radius
of 15". A good fluid motion will provide you with an excellent
curve.
For the straighter runs of track, we placed runs
of flex track on the module, and marked in between the ties at regular
intervals. If you have an S-shaped curve, be sure that you have a
strand of track between the curves that is straight for at least as long
as one of the longest cars or engines you intend to run on the module.
This will help to minimize derailments.
Now that the track is traced out, its time to make the
cuts for the mountain and ravine...
Making the
cuts >>>
