Greetings. Been interested in the hobby for about 3years and now getting ready to break ground on the “Silver Fox Railroad”. I have been amassing supplies including a Bridgewerks power supply (starting with track power), a locomotive and rolling stock, and even some buildings (alright, only 2so far). Visited a number of railroads as part of the “Shoreline” club open house here on the Delmarva this year.
I have attended the ECLS in York every year and picked up 160 feet of Train Line brass 4 ft straights for a good price. I did over buy since I do not have any curves. Hence my question. Should I go sectional and order a box of R3 curves that I have designed my phase 1 layout with, or should I order their rail bender? I will be adding additional curves in phase 2 and phase 3 expansion plans for 2011 and 2012 respectively.
I know that the track I have is not flex track, but if I recall, non flex track can be bent if every other tie is cut under the track. I am still researching this, but would like confirmation. I have read a number of sites for larce scale and have decided to make Large Scale Central my home.
I am building a raised bed and the initial garden will be 48’ x 16’ and 24" to 30" to the top rail. Researching railroad ties being available since an abandoned spur is be demolished as part of a road expansion. If I cannot obtain the ties, then I will either use masonry block or landscaping timbers. That decision will be made on Labor Day weekend as that is when I start construction. Luckily I have access to enough dirt to fill the planter, and will be borrowing a neighbors tractor with front end loader to move the direst from 2 yards over to mine.
So, looking long term, I think getting the rail bender is a good choice over going sectional. I can go up to R7 curves with the bender, but am limited to R3 curves if going sectional (I am staying with Train Line since I am avoiding Chinese production. Since my layout is in the era of wood burring steam, I can use Hartland locomotives when I expand my roster.
Going on web pricing, the bender will run me $300 verses $165 for a box of R3 curves that are currently on special. If I wait until Fall ECLS, I have a coupon for 10% off from them, lowering the cost to $270 plus PA tax.
Thoughts?