RIP Track

TRACK AND BALLAST

Martin often uses styrofoam as the road-bed base, especially in yard areas. Sand it first, then use flexible joint compound to fix the tracks to it. Add short track pieces to the side of the main track.

To mix the gravel for the yard, Martin uses a low-cost bath sand for chinchillas, then colors it by mixing it with powdered pigments. Cover the entire surface with glue and pour the sand over it.

For more on making track, we have almost 50 videos here on MRA about various aspects of it.

WALKING BOARDS FOR RIP TRACK AREA

Walking boards cover the ties in the RIP track area and are made from Northeastern Scale Lumber pre-engraved wood sheets. Cut them into strips and paint them. Glue the boards in place with fast-set glue and sand them.

MAKING THE ASPHALT ROAD

Using water-based joint putty, Martin creates a piece of road that runs parallel to the RIP track. Paint it after setting.

ADDING STATIC GRASS TUFTS AND SURFACES

Martin first adds short grass (2.5mm), then taller (6mm) grass tufts. Get the grass to stand up by using a small vacuum cleaner.

Check this video with Lance Mindheim for another take on Laying Model Grass.

PAINTING THE RIP TRACK DETAILS

Martin paints the items from the RIP Track Details set from Model Railroad 3D: a crane, pallets, oil barrels, auxiliary reservoir tanks, and box car wheel pairs.

ASSEMBLY OF RIP TRACK DETAILS

After placing all the items from the RIP Track Details set, Martin fixes them in place with gel fast-set glue and an accelerator. He also places a pickup truck, some gas tubes, pipes, and a couple of men.

The RIP track can also be used to store seldom-used vehicles such as snow plows.