Plano Texas Train Show 1/19/2019

[Point353]

Right! I knew there were bigger curves but I couldn't find them in the regular stuff.
That's the real thing holding bigger corners back: track.
My solution is just using the old model railroad visual trickery to hide the sharpness.

If you want to use only Unitrack, there are 718mm/28 1/4" (20-150) curve sections available.  Offset the outer track with short straight track pieces at the ends of the module to create larger corners.
Or, put Snap-Track conversion track (20-045) pieces at the ends of the module and use flex track to create whatever radius curves you want to have in between.

[txronharris]

I think it's safe to say there are options that some clubs can employ as stated above for the corners. I get that sometimes set ups area dictates the use of smaller radius curves. The one larger club at the Plano show last week said they were using a "paperclip" design to get the most trains running in the space they were given.  I like the idea of the wider super elevated KATO curves mentioned above too. Maybe if I make some modules up using those, they'll get used and catch on.

And arbomambo, you examples above reinforce what I've said that there is some damn fine modelling going on in TTrak. I've got other examples of that in the album I linked to also. I like the less rigid feel of most of the TTrak clubs and it seems they're remembering it's fun to run trains and that's why we do it.

I can already see the writing on the wall for me. I've got limited space and the opportunity to make some modules for myself I can integrate into my home layout and also be part of one of the clubs. Time to start planning....   

[DMetz]

Or, put Snap-Track conversion track (20-045) pieces at the ends of the module and use flex track to create whatever radius curves you want to have in between.

The Kato 20-045 conversion track is currently marketed to work with Snap Track.  It was actually made for conversion between Unitrack and Tomix track.  There is a slot under one of the rails to accept the pin and larger joiner from Tomix.  It does work to convert Atlas code 80, but any other piece of Unitrack will also connect just as well.  Just remove the Unitrack joiner and directly attach the Atlas, Peco, or whatever track.  For Atlas code 80, the standard cork roadbed is the perfect height to match to Unitrack.  The conversion track 20-045 is more expensive than any other straight of similar length. 

[Rivet Miscounter]

Hey Ron, good to chat with you at Plano.  I agree it was a good show, especially with the crowd on Saturday.   I'm hoping that was my last show as a "vendor", and that next time I go I will be there with my layout or possibly modules.   

Bruce, I love your T-Trak modules...I saw them at KC but seemed to always miss you for an introduction when I walked by.   I think the T-Trak modules are really a good way to model railroad these days.

[arbomambo]

[quote author=Rivet Miscounter link=topic=46269.msg603590#msg603590 date=1548185937 

Bruce, I love your T-Trak modules...I saw them at KC but seemed to always miss you for an introduction when I walked by.   I think the T-Trak modules are really a good way to model railroad these days.
[/quote]

I wish you could have...
It was great finally being able to talk face-to-face with Cajonpassfan and draskouasshat in Kansas City!