Will this work? Where do I go from here?

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I was all set to take up the roadbed and track the other day until I read your responses to how difficult/wasteful a process it can be. So I have been thinking some more.

Here is what I have:
-50 foot loop of flex track on cork roadbed in an “L- shape” on plywood topped benchwork.
-Limited knowledge.

Here is what I want:
-The track in the background to be at a higher elevation than that in the foreground.
-The same background track to run parallel to a cliff face with a river below.
-An agricultural valley in the foreground with necessary industries.
-A small yard, engine facility. (as simple/basic as possible)

Here is what I think I can do:
-Remove 16 feet of the straight track and roadbed that is in the background by using any means necessary for removal.
-Create a 1.5 or 2 percent grade and bring the track in the back up using 1.5 inch foam insulation sheets. I would only use a 1.5 foot wide piece and carve the river into it while having the track run atop.
-I would gradually slope the foam down to the plywood or basal elevation of the layout.

Here is what concerns me:
-The real life tracks I have seen for industry spurs and yards doesn’t have roadbed.
-The track I place shouldn’t be spiked directly to the plywood without roadbed either.
-Would it be possible to use small 1/8 sheets of cork as smaller roadbed for the spurs and yard areas without having issues?
-Would it be better to use traditional cork roadbed and build up the areas around the roadbed so it doesn’t look as if there is roadbed?

Thanks
Jacob

2

You can go either way but if your sidings, spurs or yard areas are lower than the main line it will more realistic. Sheet cork works well and could be used to cover a whole yard area or cut in strips for a thin roadbed and it will still dampen some sound. The main thing to be sure of is that the transition from the main to a lower siding or spur is smooth and gradual enough that your locomotives and rolling stock will operate through it with out any problems. Bruce

3

You could spike directly into the plywood, its a little more difficult but it can done. Since you say its and industry track, you won’t have trains constantly running over it and the extra noise shouldn’t matter. Like bwftex said, either way, make sure your vertical transitions are smooth.

Rick

4

I’ve had good luck using Woodland Scenics foam roadbed for N scale ( I’m in HO). It is much thinner, and will still dampen the sound. Their foam will “crush” down pretty far…so you can make the transition from the mainline. After a little scenicking, you should be able to hide the roadbed.

A thought just crossed my mind. Has anyone ever sanded or otherwise thinned down the ties on their track?