The Helix

[Keith Hayes]

I found I needed more parts, so cut some more trapezoid today. I neglected to show the temporary gluing process before.

Masking tape is applied to both the template and the part to be trimmed. Don't get the stuff that is marked, "won't peel paint, " because it is worthless. I got some super glue at the local hardware store. Applied a short line--don't be stingy,  but don't go overboard,  either. Clamp the parts together and wait 5-10 minutes.

The tape backing is designed to prevent paint from seeping through: same goes for the CA. Because the tape has adhesive applied very evenly across the tape,  it is great in shear, which is the force being imparted on the part by the trim blade. If you don't the CA in 4 drops in a zig-zag pattern, that will also maximize resistance to the lateral force.

When you are done, use a chisel to pry the pieces apart: the tape is less good in tension and will peel off the plywood.

[Keith Hayes]

2025 will be the march to Fremont Pass!

Crews are working uphill from Kokomo. The first surveyor was fired, as it was determined the planned grade exceeded the 2% maximum. We checked the new surveyor's chains and made sure an assistant checked all the math, and the revised alignment is just under 2% as planned.

I was going to hide the helix like everyone seems to do. When I operate on layouts where the helix is hidden,  I am forever laying on the whistle to confirm the location of the train. A while back,  the thought occurred,  why not hide the helix behind a row of trees? I can do this because the first circuit is wider than the helix radius. I am thinking this will enhance the run experience.

[Jim Courtney]

A while back, the thought occurred, why not hide the helix behind a row of trees?

I think what Keith is describing is a "low fore drop", as opposed to a "backdrop". The trees will just be high enough to mostly hide the trains, but still allow access to derailed or stalled equipment from above.

But that's going to be a whole lot of trees . . .

[Keith Hayes]

The march to Fremont Pass continues.

The roadbed is complete for a foll circuit. The grade ended up at about 1.5%, which is just fine. Next I need to plane/ sand the homabed sub roadbed to either flatten the cross sloping,  or provide just a touch of super-elevation.

This was the hard circuit,  as there was a lot of cutting and measuring and re-cutting of the risers. The next circuit will be easier because I can rely on 1x4 spacers to get the job done. Yes, Jim, this will accommodate the Ridgeway spark arrestors.

[Norm Acker]

Looking good, Keith!!