Hi

This is the first time I have used flexible track on a layout. I have however previously cut Settrack sections, to allow more flexible design. I have watched a DVD on track laying, by Bob Phelps, which included the techniques of pre-bending curves and measuring the rail length in place.

The circle is formed using code 75 track, whilst the point that I have used is code 100 Settrack. I have curved the Settrack point, by cutting the webs under the rails. When I tried using the Settrack point without bending, it looked completely out of place. The prototype was curved, this, because it improves running through the point, including increasing the speed limit though the point.

It has been a struggle, in 3 dimensions, to get the rails aligned. I decided not to use the Peco code 75-100 joiner, because they look gross.

Whilst laying the track, I ran out of track pins, and since I cannot just walk into a model shop, the problem was solved by raiding my sowing box. I used short lille pins, which are un-plated brass, so will require painting to hide them.

To make the layout more balanced, I will be moving the point slightly towards Cearsws, towards the stone built over bridge.

In order to check the track laying, I have installed temporary wiring. So that I was able to run trains. This is a more realistic check, than pushing wagons through the points.

I have decide where I am going to place the backscene and that I had enough space to include the bridge over the steam, if I move it slightly nearer to the station.

Since the baseboard is basically flat, it is easy to model features above the track level. To model the bridge over the steam, I needed to add a dropped section. In the case it is called a Bridge Box. This allows the stream and the surrounding areas to be modelled.

The bridge box adds strength to the baseboard, to compensate. For that which will be lost, due to the profile of the stream being removed from the layout fascia.

Julie

PS When soldering the temporary connections, to the track, I accidentally singed my hair! One of the thing's that have to be thought about, if you have long hair.