Track Centerline

[ChefBob]

I'm building an N scale layout. I'm using cork roadbed and PECO code 80 flex rail and turnouts. What is the best way  determine the track center-line in order to lay down the roadbed if you're fitting in flex track instead of sectional track? I can see laying out the sectional track and turnouts in order to mark the center-line..but am pondering how to do it with track I'm going to cut to fit.. seems like you wouldn't want to do that until you are actually installing it permanently?

Thanks

Chefbob

[Motley]

What kind of sub roadbed do you have? Plywood? Foam?

First lay your flex track down, tack it down with some pins. Just cut the flex track at this time, but leave a little extra on both ends. Tack down your switches. Measure everything, the center lines at what you want the distance for them.

Check to see visually how everything looks. Adjust with the track with pins as needed.

Then just draw the lines on each side of the track using a sharpie. Then lay down the cork roadbed. The cork is split, so just run your two pieces of cork down the center lines you drew down on your surface.

Use latex caulk to glue the cork down. Measure and adjust the center line of the cork before it dries.

Then start laying your track using the same latex caulk. I have found you don't have to be absolutely perfect on the cork roadbed. After you start connecting the flex track and joiners attached. If the track is not centered perfectly in some spots on the roadbed, don't worry,  when you ballast you won't even be able to tell.