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….......--- Test Track to go Under Layout ---

…......................--- Part I – Benchwork ---

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I had been buying a number of used locos off of Ebay and didn't really have a place to test them. Most didn't have decoders and I was starting to install them, some hard wired installs ( HERE ). I only had two short sections of straight track to program and test them on. I also had my turnout test stand wired to a DC controller and could run a loco back and forth on it to test the DC ones when they came in. I needed a small test track to run either DC or DCC locos on and test them out. I decided to build the following one. It has casters on one end so can be wheeled out of the way when not in use under the layout in the future (staging benchwork now).

The top was build out of some scrap 1/2” plywood sign board I had left over from the camper build. It is exterior plywood with a hard paper top that is use to paint exterior signs on. Normal plywood would of worked the same.

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I wanted it to be easily moved so put casters on one end.

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I came up with a track plan and then added to it later (red above). I could of used a simple circle but wanted to also use this as a test bed for hand-laid turnouts I'd made and different ways to throw them (servos and manual throws). I also wanted a separate track that could be wired so that it would also be a program track.

I also adapted my turnout test fixture so that it would sit on the top of the layout when I needed to use it. The foam is temporarily there for the fitting process.

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Link to turnout tester ( HERE ).

In the background is the benchwork for the staging yard area of the layout (currently in limbo). I bought a 3D printer and have been obsessed with designing train items and printing them. I need to get away from it some but really enjoy it.

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