I am building a new layout with a branch line to loop up and over the main line. What is the best way to create grades? I have heard of some of the more expensive (foam?) products that creat grades, but i’m on a limited source of money. Would I be able to use a flat long strip of wood sitting on supporters?
You can also use risers and cleats made of wood…I start inclines with a rise of 1/4" per 16" which is a 1.5% grade…I wouldn’t go over a 2% grade because the engines will strain too much trying to make the grade with the rest of the train and you either burn up the engine motors or the train will stall and not make it to the summit…I use 1/2" x 3/4" lumber for the risers and then screw my roadbed made from strips of plywood directly to the risers and the cleats…check out the pictures of my layout and it should give you an idea how to raise the track…http://community.webshots.com/user/bayouman1 …Chuck
If your layout is open grid or girder, then the risers that cwclark mentioned is the way to go. If you are using a flat plywood surface, the Woodland Scenics foam riser kits are the way to go. You can get kits for as little as $8.depending on the length = height that you want
Another method I have used on a flat surface with a small rise is to use a miter-saw (any saw) and cut lengths of 1x2’s in small graduations to the height I wanted. Just glue them down with carpenter’s glue and use foam or plywood on top. Cover with plaster gauze. It ain’ta goin’ no where! [:D]
I have open grid and use the risers with 1/2" BC plywood as the sub roadbed. I use a rotary cutting tool to make the curves and etc… I also use Woodland Scenics foam risers for auto roads that rise from one level to the next.
Take a look: http://www.railimages.com/gallery/rexheacock
If you’re using a flat top table, cover the tabletop with 1/2 foam board, draw your track plan on top of this, lay your track and then cut out the roadbed just outside your track and make your incline using the cookie cutter method. Glue wood or foam risers as needed under the foam roadbed to create your inclines. 2 % grade is the best to use if your pulling fairly long trains. This method is fairly easy and yeilds good results. Just be careful to assure that any turnouts you may have on the inclines are level. The foam board is very flexible so you can adjust your grades as needed.
Enjoy ---- Joe