Just a quick update and some pics. After a lot of thought I just went with the homasote. It was sooooooo messy because I cut it all with a circular saw, but I knew it would produce the best result. I just covered all the plywood rather than only using it only under the track. I figured this way if I want to cut any out later to create low spots, or set something down in, I can.
I began the process of closing in the sides with masonite also. I did this first so that the homasote would finish off nice on the outside. I'll trim the top, bottom, and joints where the homasote met later with baseboard, as well as create some access doors.
I had some cabinets that were removed from a job that were in storage and was able to create a work station. Started laying some track tonight, and hopefully Ill have the 1st level loops in by the end of the week. Progress will likely slow down once Im able to start running some trains .
I also decided to bend my own 108 out of Atlas flex with the track bender that was on display at York. I purchased it from Norms Model Supply and Im here to tell you that it works perfect! I made a 108 line on the top of the layout and bent the flex until it matched. Piece of cake! I think that Im going to bend my 99 and 90 with it as well, but I dont know if you can go any lower than that.
Thanks for all the great comments, and I hope everyone enjoys their Thanksgiving. I'll post more pics as soon as the 1st level track is complete.
Work Station
Track Bender
I figured out that the 108 is from center rail. So its either 1 1/8" more or less depending if you want to go to the inside or outside of the tie. I made the line to the inside of the tie, and only had to make a few swipes until the track matched the line. It holds with no spring back, and after bending theres nothing left to do but trim the ties. I would definitely recommend this tool to bend track.