Background - This will be my first layout ever and I'm about to start laying roadbed. It's approximately 33' x 14.' It will have 2 levels that are connected by a long ramp and the "sea level" level will have an area where the double main line crosses over itself. Using Atlas O throughout with 072 and 081 curves for mains on sea level route. It has open grid benchwork, courtesy of following Linn Westcott's book to the letter. This also means the entire sea level route will be "floating" approx 3" above the joists (via risers holding it all up off the joists) to allow modeling above and below sea level and also to split the inclines/declines to minimize grades.
Question - I've now watched many DVDs and read a lot about ribbon roadbed and cookie cutter roadbed over the last year, but frankly, this is all a little daunting. Trying to lay track on the plywood. Figure out exactly where to place risers under it. Where exactly to cut into the plywood to start inclines/declines, etc. Has anybody used the Woodland Scenics Subterrain system? I've seen some youtube videos of people using it and, while a little costly, seems very easy to use and almost foolproof in terms of creating grades, etc. But noticed that it only comes in 2, 3, 4% grades - so can it be used for other needed grades, like say 2.5%? Would really like as many opinions on this system as possible, espcially all known pros/cons. Old School guy at LHS said he wishes it was around years ago because he would have used it exclusively. But don't want to jump into it either. Anyway, all comments weclome and appreciated - thanks!
Peter
