Curving PECO Code 100 flex track

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woodcamp66213

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This is another annoying newbie question. I'm having difficulties bending the flex track into an 18" curve. Cutting the rails to the correct length is really bothersome and problematic for me. I've researched you tube without much good luck.
Everyone's help is appreciated.

Jim
 
If it’s like Micro Engineering try rubbing a wood dowel or similar such thing down the outside of the curve ties.
Try on an old or small piece first.
 
Get yourself a set of these for flex track.

1724181398571.png
 


The part that's difficult is how tight the rail fits in the cross ties.
I found that applying some thin oil to the cinch points loosens the rails up enough to get a natural curve with it.
 
woodcamp66213 said:
This is another annoying newbie question. I'm having difficulties bending the flex track into an 18" curve. Cutting the rails to the correct length is really bothersome and problematic for me. I've researched you tube without much good luck.
Everyone's help is appreciated.

Jim
Click to expand...
No help here. I have heard/read of those issues with Peco and Micro Engineering flex track since the last century. I traded my few pieces of Peco for Atlas.
 
I haven't used Peco track, but my last layout was 100% Micro-Engineering flex track. It is possible to get a nice, smooth curve in the track, but it takes some work. Unlike Atlas flex track that just springs into a curve by flexing it, you have to start at one end of the piece of flex track and work a little bit of curve into it the entire length, then repeat into a tighter radius multiple times until you reach the desired radius. Laying out the desired radius with a Sharpie marker helps, as does getting your eyes down close to the rails and sighting down the line to make sure the curve is smooth and kink free.

The attached photo shows 3 identical curves done with Micro-Engineering track. A little practice, some good luck and a lot of patience will get you your desired results.

Regards,
Don Z.
 

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