leveling track

[Anonymous]

I built a layout using the cookiecutting method. In some locations around corners the track leans toward the outside a bit.How is the proper method for shimming up the track so it is level?

[camarokid]

I can only tell you what I do. Put a level on it. Grab a scrap of plywood and a locking clamp (ViseGrip 6"or11"). Slip the scrap under the layout to the problem area and push it up accordingly until the track is level and then clamp to your support bracket. You might have to add one if one is not handy. Then check to make sure the track is level and adjust it if not. Then you can screw the scrap to your support and not worry about it again. Hope you understand and that this works for you.

[cwclark]

I level my track with a level on a 90 degree horizontal of the track...just like above...I cut my risers and sand them smooth and straight...then take a C clamp and position the riser until it's level on the top, then tighten the clamp..check it one more time then run sheet rock screws into the riser which is supported by the "L" girder joists...check out my benchwork at http://community.webshots.com/user/bayouman1 under trains...I have pictures in the site so you can get an idea how to level the track...one other note..if it is a bit high on the outside rail that's ok...you just installed super elevated track if that's the case..as long as it's within a 1/4" high on the outside rail then it will look real good when the train goes into the super elevated track curve...Chuck[:D]

[Anonymous]

Thanks guys. This should work.

[Anonymous]

If you use screws going through your roadbed into the top of the riser, I have backed out the screw on the low side and put washers, pennies, scrap plastic, paper, etc. on top the riser to level things up then tightened the screw back down. The method mentioned above works just as well. I always like to have more than one way to do things. I use the method I described to superelevate curves on some high speed areas of my mainline.