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The Last Video Of Me Cutting Gaps.

Ever.

I think this is the forth or fifth video of me cutting gaps in trackwork. This one should be the last. I have been asked numerous times how I am going to make this layout work, which is not a surprising question with complex trackwork such as this. From the beginning I designed all the track sections to operate, but until this stage in construction, where I can install the track permanently onto the layout, I could not cut the final electrical isolation gaps as it makes the track sections weak and prone to damage if handled. Once glued down they will be fine, but left loose and being transported often, they were prone to damage.

Well this week, they were finally completed. Yay!

The video above shows the cutting of the most complex piece of trackwork, the triple lapped turnout that leads into the engine house.

The gaps were all cut with a jewelers saw as this allows me to cut small precise gaps in tight locations. Had I tried to cut these gaps using a rotary tool I would have certainly nicked, or completely cut the adjacent rails. Also, the heat generated would melt the solder joints. A jewelers saw is the best option for this.

The trackwork cut in this video took about 3 or 4 hours to cut as I worked slowly and methodically.

Next up, installation!

-T.

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About the Author:

I'm your host, Tim Warris, a product developer in Port Dover, Ontario. Since March of 2007 I have been documenting the construction of the former CNJ Bronx Terminal in HO scale. For my day job, I design track building tools for Fast Tracks, a small company I own and operate. Fast Tracks makes it fast and easy to hand lay your own trackwork. Stop by our website to learn more!

Posted by: Tim | 05-17-2009 | 09:05 AM
Posted in: Cutting Gaps | Latest Posts | Track Construction

1 Comment »

  1. It’s the music at the end that makes all worth while! 🙂

    Comment by Pierre — May 17, 2009 @ 5:41 pm

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