holdig down cork roadbed

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I was laying out a 180 degree, 22" radius curve and found out that the push pins I was using to hold the cork roadbed in position were not long enough to hold in the foam.
What is a good way to hold the cork in position while the latex caulk sets up?
How about weights?
BB

2

I had a similar problem with the WS foam roadbed in n scale, I used anything that would keep pressure on the roadbed, I remember seeing in some MR books on n scale building they used paint cans, books, what ever was handy. Did you split the cork in half? I think they mention it will lay better that way, also lets you track the centerline/track plan better.

3

I am in HO and yes, the cork roadbed is split.
BB

4

I used the T pins from WS, though I think there is something similar in the sewing industry, have you checked your wifes (if you are married) sewing box [:D] They are about an inch or so long. Sorry misunderstood your quesion, coffee just kicking in…

5

Or check out an Office Supply place for pins. They used to be more common. Train orders were pinned together until the 1970’s when staples took over.

Dave H.

6

I got a pack of colored head pins at Staples that are plenty long enough to pu***hrough the roadbed material and the foam base. They look like ordinary straight pins but with a colored plastic ball on the head.

–Randy

7

Weight the bed with whatever, but use the pins at the sides…like fence posts.

8

I’ve been using quilting pins to hold the cork in place on the foam, and placing lead bricks on the track to hold to fluch while the glue of caulk dries. When I ran out of lead bricks, I’ve also used 5 gallon paint buckets, tool boxes, power sanders, drill sets, etc. Basically whatever you have laying around that can hold the cork flat on the foam.

I had access to a lot of scrap lead and solder a few years back and cast some bricks. Eventually I’ll use it casting bullets or train weights. Until then I’ve got maybe 20 lbs. of lead and the same in 60/40 solder.

Mark in Utah

9

I staple mine down and after the glue dries I pull the staples out. It works really good.