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In this second of of two videos, David Popp shows how to complete a standard T-Trak module by filling it with foam insulation board and attaching the N scale track (Kato USA Unitrack) in the specified position. The fun has only just begun, so be sure to follow MR’s Facebook page and the MR Video Plus website to see the excitement of MRVP’s first-ever group project unfold!
Will you cover “Multi-Track Drifting”? It’s not a joke it really does exist.
If you don’t have all those clamps and don’t want to acquire them, consider purchasing kits with precision machined finger joints.No clamps are required because the finger joints are an interference fit that holds them together while the glue dries. The only tool requires is a block of wood to tap the joints together. http://www.masterpiecemodules.com
I too am puzzled by the way the modules are coming together. I would make provision for wiring before closing up modules, although the t-trak standard does not, as far as I can see, really address wiring issues.
One group is suggesting PowerPole connectors for bus wiring to interoperate with NTrak modules http://ttrak.wdfiles.com/local–files/northern-virginia-ntrak-t-trak-division/T-TRAK_PowerPole_Feeders_Ver_2-1.pdf. A good idea I would take much further.
I'll be curious to see what you folks come up with. If it were me, I'd be installing track bus wiring and other wiring to support the layout, including support for simple automation like signals and crossings. In fact, I think you could use the PowerPole connectors the same way you are using the Kato track; mounting connectors on the side of each module to automatically mate when you put the modules together.
As you are building these modules differently than the "official" T-TRAK (http://ttrak.org/standards.html) standards, how do you propose to install the necessary wiring for the tracks (and possible scenery)?
If you had used 3/4" thick side material, you would not need the blocks and the foam could be one piece.
David, the more I think about it the more I think it would be valuable to talk about the various T-trak kits on your video series. The kits make it easy, or at least easier to actually build modules on the kitchen table as you suggest. You assembled the modules in a well equipped shop. How about assembling one at your office desk? Or from your roady box a la Rod Stewart with with a smaller box. 🙂 Like I said before I'm looking forward to the rest of this series.
David
Can you show us a final plan for the way they are assembled?
I'd been considering Ttrak for some time now. I am very pleased to see MR staff tackling this project and cannot WAIT to see what you all come up with, and how it all comes together!! Thanks so much for taking this on!
Excellent instruction David. You pointed out the area underneath and at the center of the track where glue can be used to help hold the track down on the foam but I didn't see you do it before you nailed down the ends.
As Chris was laying her track, she found it really easy to use Kato 20-042, double track, 2 7/16" sections as spacers at both ends of the module. They are light enough as to not need support while checking spacing, and you can have a spacer at both ends. Lay the first track near the edge. Tack and glue it down. Get the spacers and second track all snapped to the first track. Then tack and glue the second. Really easy and accurate.
David
Lloyd, thank you for the kit sites. Excellent tip and addition to the video information.
Interesting concept for creating a layout for a small space and incorporating lots of variety in scenery and structure types. Two thoughts on the module construction; the first is cutting out spacers to assure that the centers of the sides and ends do not bow out or in while gluing, and two, adding a spacer block at the back side between the modules so that the modules stay aligned when together, they appear to squeeze together at the back side. Also, what does the 13mm equate to in scale feet between track centers? Nice construction episode.
if you don't have access to a table saw or a drill press you can buy T-Trak module kits that are pre cut and are easily assemble with out all the clamps. from either masterpiece modules at http://www.masterpiecemodules.com or T kits at http://t-kits.com/. they are reasonable priced and of the two I like Master piece modules best because they are cut with assembly tabs. just wanted to share that.
Loyd from Florida.