Edit post

Edit your reply below.

Post Body
Enter your post below.
I committed to AMI back in 1993 when I set out to build a small lightweight layout in N-scale; not wanting to use plywood for subroadbed, I went with 1/2" FoamCore board, and since this will not hold nails I needed an alternative. AMI was the answer, and it worked PERFECTLY. <br /> <br />Now, I'm in the process of rebuilding my "big" layout, and while the original 1/4" plywood is still there (just as flimsy as ever), I'm overlaying it with 1/2" Foamcore. This allows me to reconfigure my track centerlines slightly, as well as fine-tune gradients by elevating the Foamcore. Of course, it also means that I'm using AMI exclusively. For turnouts, rather than place tape over the AMI to protect the points, I omit the AMI altogether, and let the turnout "float". The tape adds depth to the roadbed, depth which must be compressed once teh adjoining track is pressed into the sticky stuff. Instead, I use CA to glue thick cardstock to the underside of the turnout, of approximately the same depth as the compressed AMI, and then stop the AMI right at the rail joiners on the turnout. Conventional ballasting with diluted glue adheres readily to the cardstock, as it soaks in the glue; I tend to use glue even over the AMI just out of habit. <br /> <br />Another nice thing about AMI is that it has a lot of flexibility; my layout is in an attic space and goes through extremes of temperature, but I've had no troubles with my roadbed. Plus, as a bonus, I don't have any nail heads showing down the center of my ties!
Tags (Optional)
Tags are keywords that get attached to your post. They are used to categorize your submission and make it easier to search for. To add tags to your post type a tag into the box below and click the "Add Tag" button.
Add Tag

Update Reply

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Model Railroader Newsletter See all

Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!

Subscriber & Member Login

Edit post

Post Body

Tags (Optional)

Subscriber & Member Login

Users Online

Search the Community