For those that use Plywood Roadbase, do you recommend using OSB (Oriented Strand Board) or just general BCX plywood… OSB is somewhat cheaper then true plywood, but I was not sure about how well it works.
Also, besides, the Tortoise Switch Machine is there another that people recommend @ about 14.50 each for each Tortoise and I have 43 switches, it becomes very expensive to do Tortoises. Is there another kind that is good that people recommend? Also if I should just Bite the bullet and go with Tortoise switches, where can I get longer piano wire and what size should I get for the throw wires?
I have used OSB for more than 20 years on my layout and it has held up great. Would I use it again? probably not. I think working with plywood is easier with such jobs as under the table machines and just cutting for any other reasons. But I have never had a problem with durability in the OSB in any other category and I have 12 sheets which I used to build my layout.
I can’t comment on the OSB board for roadbed because I have never used it before.
For the switch machines you can use Caboose Industries ground throws. They are approximately $3.00 each or can be bought in a 5 pack for around $12.00. You may be able to use these and for the turnouts that are not close enough to get to you can use the tortoise machines.
The piano wire can be bought at Tony’s Train Exchange. Most likely any place that sells the switch machines should have piano wire. I bought some from them when I ordered my tortoise machines. They also sell them at a discount when purchased in larger quantities. However, I found them at Litchfield Station for $13.89 each or in a 12 pack for $153.89 ($12.82 each).
OSB will be fine,specially considering the price. Here in North central Idaho its cheaper than sheetrock. Buy it now before hurricane season comes and the price skyrockets. You might consider using a little more support for it than ply.