I have the benchwork complete on my new layout and need to cut the base for my grade tracks. I'm thinking of using a good grade of 1/2" or larger plywood. The two main lines have two section on grades of approx. 2.7%. I section includes an elevated section 7 1/2" high elevated section on TW Trainworx P20 Double Trestles with R31 Truss Rails. You'll note that the elevated section includes a curve and the grade leading up to it begins at the furnace (lower right) and is one large O80 and O72 curve. I'm using Gargraves flex track and some Ross curves. My question is how would you lay this out on the plywood for cutting? I'm considering laying poster board along the edge, taping them together and then laying the track on the poster board and marking the base on the poster board. The base will be 9 3/4 " wide to match the width of the trestles and the desired separation between the two main lines. I would then cut the poster board and use as a template to cut sections form the plywood sheets. The problem I am wrestling with is that the template will be developed on the flat surface and if I cut according to that there will be a gap when I raise the base to the grade height. I can always cut it a bit long at the 0% grade end but don't want to mess up a couple of sheets of expensive plywood. Any suggestions on creating the base for this grade and elevated section will be greatly appreciated.
