Elevated Track: Whats the best way to.....

[Anonymous]

I'm new to the forum - hoping to get some advice. I'm building a relatively large O-guage layout. I've used plywood sub-bed with cork roadbed and gargraves track. My question concerns elevated track. My plan calls for an extended elevated section - about 7 inches above the lower level. I've seen articles in CCT about how to detail/decorate elevated track to make it look more realistic - but nothing on how to build it to begin with! Two major questions. 1) Any suggestions for building/buying trestles? (the lionel elevated trestle set is too short for my need and probably not that sturdy anyway). 2)What kind of road bed (if any) would be recommended? Lionel's trestle set suggests simply suspending the track between each trestle - doesn't seem appropriate for a permanent layout.

Any experiences that could be shared (good and bad) would be greatly appreciated. Any recommended books / articles?

Thanks
Allan

[Dr. John]

Welcome, Allan!

One of the best methods is the "Cookie cutter" method. Since you are using a plywood sub-roadbed, lay out the track you want to elevate (do not attach the track) and trace around it on the plywood. Allow gaps for bridges. Remove the track and use a jigsaw to cut the outline. The plywood is very flexible and allows gradual transitions in grades and curves. You will need to fashion supports for the elevated portion with 1x4 or 2x4 risers. Use dry wall screws to attach the risers to the frame (you did not mention if your framework was open grid, L-girder or what) and drill through the top of the roadbed into the risers. Space the risers where the elevated portion does not sag. Add your cork roadbed, install any bridges and lay your track. There are numerous methods to create embankments - screen wire and plaster, cardboard strips and Woodland Scenics plaster wraps, etc. Paint with a flat tan, brown or green latex paint and add ground cover. If you use plaster, mix a little of the paint in too so if it chips it won't show stark white. Add ground cover such as ground foam.

You might want to order the video, "How to Build a Toy Train Layout" from TM Videos. It covers how to build elevated track. http://www.tmbooks-video.com/

Hope this helps!