chefgtgilbert I am working on a new layout and I have a grade that started right where two peices of Unitrack meet. I can not move the grade or track and my equipement is uncoupling when it hits this point. Does anyone have any suggestions to help solve this issue?
I am working on a new layout and I have a grade that started right where two peices of Unitrack meet. I can not move the grade or track and my equipement is uncoupling when it hits this point.
Does anyone have any suggestions to help solve this issue?
First, creating a vertical transition like Cuyama suggested is the best option.
Second, if that is not possible have you tried changing the sequence of Unitrack pieces? There are many various lengths, and you might be able to move the joint away from the grade break a little.
Third, if you can't move the track (like you stated in your post) can you solder the two adjoining pieces together. That way the soldered continuous length would flex rather than kink at the joiner.
And fourth . . . joined forum in 2006, first post in 2017? That's gotta be some kind of record! Welcome. Glad you're here.
Robert
LINK to SNSR Blog
Welcome to the forum.
Perhaps a couple of things going on. The first is that it's usually a problem to start a grade abruptly with any sort of track. One needs a transition of a car length or two from level-to-grade and back. Abrupt changes of grade are often unreliable, it should look like this.
The second is that if you have a subroadbed or benchwork seam at the grade change that falls right at the point where two pieces of Unitrack join, you’ll get an abrupt angle that is probably unreliable.
Bending a longer piece of plywood subroadbed below the Unitrack to encompass the transition and beginning of the grade has worked well for others.
Good luck with your layout.
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