Best way to bend Flextrack

It isn't really "bendable" more rather you form it.  I'm not sure it will go that tight, but, you start at one end and make a small "bend" and gradually work the length of the piece.  Then, start over, continuing to repeat, until you achieve the desired curve.  There may be other's with different techniques, but this is what I've done.  Patience is the key.

I haven't tried it yet as I don't have any of their track yet but it seems to me that you could cut a section of plywood (3/4") to the desired curvature that you are seeking and then try bending it against the form.  If it bends easily enough, maybe you could use long wood clamps to keep it against the form/template so that it will take that shape after a bit.  May be way off base here, just a thought.  I don't know that much about their track except they advertise its very easy to bend.  i'll be interested to hear what others have to suggest.

Go to Gargraves web site and they show you how to do it. Even better go here.  http://youtu.be/NJOEzT58HsE   Been using the track for four layouts. Don

We're using Gargraves flex and their sectional pre bent track for the curves. We do have some "custom" curves on the layout, but they are pretty large curves, easy to do with the Gargraves flex. From personal experience, I would NOT want to bend that stuff that tight.... You'll be better off using the pre bent curve sections. If $$ is the issue, just sell off the flex (it will sell easily) and get the curves. Just my opinion based on experience bending that stuff recently.

I have some 17 1/2" radius or 35" dia curves at the center rail. The hard part is curving the ends for a smooth continous curve. Saw 3 grooves in a 1" x 1" by around 7" long piece of wood to fit over the rails. Use this tool to form the ends, slowly gently curve the track. You have to get into it. Its not hard, just a little common sense and mechanical appitude.

Gargraves, and most flexible track, presents issues. Lots of them. Practice, patience, track pins, alternating sides, multiple sections, and most importantly, using some type of jig or brace against which to bend the track. Attaining smooth curves is not easy. Anything less than O-72 will create issues where the ends of the flex curves mate with the next piece.

The ends of each flexed sections has to be tacked down very firmly using screws in multiple ties. If you do not do that, the rails will deform at the very ends creating points for the wheels to pick.

You will have to drill out the wood ties prior to inserting your screws otherwise the torque from the bending track will rip your ties.

Eliot

Thanks guys

I already have the Gargraves track, but fromt he looks of it I will not be able ot get the curves I want. 

Here is a shot of the area on the layout I need to use the flex track for.  As you can see I will have a pretty hard time using pre-bent sections.   If anyone has any tips on how to close up this section it would be great.

Since I use fairly broad curves I just bend them around my rather copious fat stomach and they turn out pretty good.  Seriously, I have bent Gargraves for my 10" radius return loops on my two rail O scale trolley line.  First I remove the third rail then I remove about half of the ties and start bending.  You have to remove the ties because they will bunch up to prevent bending beyond a certain point.  I could not bend it any tighter because the top surface of the rails will buckle.  Once I fastened it down my Western Hobbycraft trolleys run around with no problems.  Good luck.   Odd-d

The flex can be bent.  That is how they do it at Gargraves.  Here is their instructional video http://www.gargraves.com/diagramsandinstructions.html

Dave

Don't forget sectional can be cut to fit. 

I have Gargraves/Ross but my curves are for the most part ~72/81.  One trick I use is to put a good curve in the track and then nail/screw it down as I place it down.  The ends are tough to bend so I start straight and ease into the curve then cut off the ends ~1.5" that I couldn't get a smooth bend on.

Hope all these ideas help.  It's easy once you get started.

Dan