I have done a search for this and all the posts (at least 12) did not seem to answer my question. I have freelanced a rough draft of a layout and I have curves from 24"-18" throughout. My question how can I use Unitrack when they don't have those curve radii? There are a few 180 degree, 90 degree and 45 degree turns. I would like it to have a nice semi-circle curve and not a curve with a point in it. Two other questions how do you guys post drawings of your layout to the layout forum? Where is the cheapest place for Unitrack on the web? Again thanks to all the reply to my questions!!!! Jeff
Jeff: You can cut sections of curved Unitrack with a straight razor back saw which will give you an increased radii. You can also cut sections of straight Unitrack as well. You can also use an easement, by placing a straight section of smaller length into each side of the radii. Stay cool and run steam.....
Powersteamguy 1790 When it comes to geometry I'm not so good! I didn't quite understand how cutting the curved pieces would increase the radii. Would you put straight pieces in where you cut? As stated above I'm shape challenged! Thanks kisatchie!
My suggestion for adjusting curves in Unitrak is: 1) Have a large assortment of Unitrak on hand 2) Use a combination of sizes to achieve the effect you are looking for. Unitrak makes it easy to try: a) Try a sequence of 12" > 15" > 19" > 12" b) Other combinations c) Use Flex track for those curves Posting Drawings: Get them into jpg format Upload them to railimages or similar place The "Cheapest"? place - I don't know. I encourage you to use one of the vendors that advertises on trainboard. I've been using http://www.wig-wag-trains.com/ for most of my purchases.
I suspect there are better ways, but what I think I did (it's been a long time) was to import the file with the layout plan (I did mine using the Atlas RTS software) into Paint, which is on most PC's. There I saved it as a jpeg file. Then I could upload it to RailImages just like any other photo. Regards Ed
Dr. J.: Read the thread below. It should help you. http://www.trainboard.com/grapevine/showthread.php?t=79896&highlight=banking+outer+track+rail Stay cool and run steam.....
Grey One I want to stick with Unitrack for the mainline. I have used Peco flextrack in the past and I get tired of having to "fiddle" with the arc of the curve being kinked. Thanks for the Wig-Wag recomendation; it's the cheapest. Powersteamguy1790 Will try different radi and mix and match seems to be the way to go! Once I get my plans to a JPEG will place in the layout section. Again the speed you get responses here is amazing!!!! Jeff
If you use different sized curved sections and some small straight sections, you should be able to solve your problem. Stay cool and run steam....
Taking Request Over the next 7 days I will be setting up a 4' X 8' sheet of blue foam. Using what Unitrak I have on hand I will be happy to try various combinations of track to see what fits into what space. Modular: Instead of doing entire layout let's think in terms of modules: A yard shape Curves inside curves Easements Switchbacks Requests? Suggestions? Turnouts - #6s – I don’t really have any #4s that I am willing to take up from the current state of the Grey and Grandure. All track pieces will be recorded by number. If possible I will color code them.
Grey One I would love it if you could get a double track curve with the outer curve a 24" radius! Thanks! Jeff
Jeff, I'll try but it won't be a smooth 24". I will try to fit two "concentric" curves across a 48" area. Sooo, that won't be 24" but might give you an idea.
Unitrack "flex track" - use 19" & 28" R There is enough latitude in Unitrack's Unijoiners to create beautiful, flowing, flex-track-like curves, as suggested in the following triple-track main line: To create easements (broader gauge curve entry that makes longer cars look prototypical), start with 28"R and then switch to 19"R. To tighten the curve (if necessary), you can use 381 and 348 mm pieces in the middle of the curve with good results, too. Bryan Pfaffenberger Charlottesville, VA
If you care to be a little more precise, here is information on both the spiral and parabolic easement, both used by real railroads. The NMRA also has data on this and shows simple construction techniques. If you care to do it, a true easement is a wonderful thing to behold.
Well Jeff, I did not achieve "a nice semi-circle" but I hope this helps: http://picasaweb.google.com/Asymmetrical.Embracer/ In the "Trains - Test Bed album. Sooo, why don't you share your track plan with us and I'll be happy to see what I can do for you.
Thanks Grey One! So is that the order of the track? I think I can live with that. I have taken pics of my layout drawing put haven't tried to upload yet! I will try tonight after I get home! Jeff
Yes that is the track sequence from front to back: Outside: 5x28" > 7x19" Inside: 2x19" > 4x28" > after that you would need 15" and 19" combinations. I'm sure you noticed that those combinations brought you to the very edge of the table. To reduce the area required I would start with a 19" on the Outside curve: I put the sharper curves on the "backside" of the curve as they could be hidden there - Depends on your scenery.
