Fast Tracks

I know that there are probably a number of resources out there...all of them wonderful too about the art of hand laying your own track. However I wonder if anyone here or Tim himself could create a news letter offering a step by step how-to on handlaying track work.

I'm sure its not rocket science, however some insight on proper technique, how to get the guage right, what are the best types of materials for benchwork/roadbeds to spike into et all would be super keen.

As a side note...I'm relatively new to model railroading and I've just finished benchwork for a 16x8 ft HO shelf switching layout. Right now I'm using 3.8 fir for decking and 1/4 cork roadbed. I'm jumping right into it by deciding to handlay all of my track. I've built just over a dozen # 5 turnouts using the fast tracks jig, which btw really instills confidence. They also look far better then anything I've ever seen off of a shelf.

So far this is tons of fun and I'm hoping its only going to get better from here on in.

Hi tetters,

Tim's instructions and steps on the TwistTies is a very good start. There's dozens of options and methods that are successful and well documented from a variety of sources. A lot of the options are trades on details and appearances. All will provide excellent operational trackwork.

The now out of print Mallory "Trackwork Handbook" is a tome on methods and geometry layout. Many (20 - 40 series) of multi-part articles in the model railroad magazines - especially in the 50's and 60's provide excellent material. There's several dozen web site postings. There's some dedicated group e-lists and forums covering handlaying techniques and discussions on the merits and choices for trackbed materials. Tim's video on demystifying the NMRA standards has very important information (though I do take issue with just a few of the precepts covered).

There is no one authority or for that matter 'one correct' process. And most important, its an easily learned skill that requires mostly just patience and some trial and evaluation effort.

Welcome aboard!

_________________
-ed mccamey-
COSLAR RR - http://www.coslar.us/
NMRA Standards and Conformance Department
PROTO & FINE Scale Coordinator
I estimate I have about 5 pounds of coupler springs somewhere in the vicinity of my workbench.