MP15 project (test on yard tracks)

[@BaltimoreOhioToledoSecondSub]

Fantastic - ESU decoders are an excellent choice.

[@JonBanquer]

I have some questions after watching many of your Layout Update videos, where I have learned quite a bit. Thank you! : I was wondering why you prefer using Homasote over Masonite for your splines? What do you use to cut a 4x8 sheets of Homasote board into strips for your splines? Does Homesote hold screws well? Do you apply glue to the screws in order to get them to hold in the Homasote?

[@rhythmrailroad1101]

@@JonBanquer Hi Jon! Thanks for watching! -Homasote was an experiment for me. Never used it before on previous layouts. In fact, the spline approach was new to me altogether. I chose homasote because it was easier to manipulate and adjust than the wood or Masonite approach and n which you typically need glue and nails to keep the spline together. At least that’s what I assumed from watching videos. With homasote you can make a section and if you’re not content with any part of it, you can back the screws out and adjust. Also, you can place your screws anywhere if you’ve already made a hole from a previous adjustment. Homasote spline is good and bad in my opinion. Like I said, it’s very easy to work with but a 2” depth is ecommended to give it the rigidity necessary and to prevent it from twisting over time. 2” is deep when it comes to placing it over your bench work, especially if you have limited space. Screws hold very well as long as you use enough of them. I never had an issue even while putting heavy stress on it. Glue is optional. I don’t use it because I often change things as I go. lol. With that said, I glue cork roadbed to the top of the homasote before laying track. That helps to seal the top part of the homasote which could help protect from warping while using water/alcohol/scenic cement while installing ballast. Table saw set to 2 inches is my tool of choice for cutting strips. Do it outside because it makes a MESS. Also wear a mask.

[@JonBanquer]

@@rhythmrailroad1101 Thanks so much for all the details. Very much appreciated! I now do see the advantages of no glue if you use Homasote and screws! Can you post some video of your saw setup to easily rip 4x8 sheets of 1/2 Homasote down to 2" wide strips that I guess you cut to 4 ft long? Do you have a big table saw and tables with an expensive fence to accomplish this?

[@rhythmrailroad1101]

@ I have a small table saw and cutting the strips is not easy. I suppose I could have rigged it up or cut it in half prior to making strips but that would be what smart people would do. lol. I just do a balancing act and somehow get it to cut straight. 😂

[@JonBanquer]

@@rhythmrailroad1101 Fair enough. I guess you have a contractors type bench top saw like a Makita, Dewalt, Rigid, etc. If that's what you manage with, I'll try the same approach.