I did discover some problems with the inclined track setup:
1) the loco and tender are heavy and cause the curved track to bend toward the outside of the curves (O36 Fastrack). I'm not comfortable with any flex and don't want any part of the loco or cars to derail and tumble onto the ceramic items that will be below
2) the MTH pillars seem fine to support the end of the track where they join between 10" straights and the O36 curves. however, there are weak spots where I have small straight pieces (1-3/8, 1-3/4, 5). at one spot on the left, the track flex causes a break in power. in the video below, you will see the loco stop on its climb. have to work on some fixes
3) I am uncomfortable with the height of the track next to the edge of the benchwork. call it a fear of heights. I will have to add some protective measures to prevent a major crash in case of a derailment
