Corrugated Cardboard T-TRAK Architecture

Now and then I've seen references to building T-TRAK modules from corrugated cardboard. One modeler on his website said he had to get ready for a meet, but he lacked an important module for the intended plan. Looking for a quick solution, he settled on buidling a temporary module from corrugated cardboard. He wound up surprised at how robust it proved to be, and it wound up being a permanent part of his T-TRAK repertoire.

I decided to try a proof-of-concept using corrugated cardboard from packing boxes that had come in from UPS and USPS. They'd otherwise be recycled. I added stiffeners at the corners made from used fireplace matches, and I also added a central stiffening member.

I measured this one out to be full width and half depth, following the dimensions of those that used to be available from Masterpiece Modules. However, the only key dimension is the height, 2-3/4 inches. Even module kits that have been advertised as following T-TRAK standards have some variation, but for home use where you aren't required to fit a layout plan that uses standard modules, you actually have a lot of flexibility in width and depth.

In my case, this is another T-TRAK module I've built using single track. The switch on this one is non-operating, scenery-only using a damaged Peco from a former layout. My first impression is that it's sturdier than I expected and perfectly acceptable for home use.