Laying new track problem

[TunerTom]

I have decided to try a simple new layout in TRAINZ 12. I thought I'd start out duplicating my modest HO-scale layout. I immediately encountered the following problem and I cannot figure out how to solve it.
Start by laying two lengths of straight track parallel to each other... easy!
Now I want to "cap the ends of these two parallel tracks with 180-degree constant-radius"ends" to form a continuous loop.
As soon as I connect a third section of track to either end of either straight tracks and attempt to "bend the third" section around to meet the same end of the other straight track. the first straight track begins to "curve along".
If I actually "connect the other end to the second track, both straight sections curve into the third piece.
Is there a way to permanently hold the straight sections "straight?
I suppose I could put bridges in place of the original straight sections, but that doesn't look right and I wouldn't be able to add any turnouts along the sides of the bridges...

 

[leo655annst]

After making the connection use the straighten track tool on the miss formed straight away.

 

[JCitron]

Hi Tom,

Track splines are like flex-track on a model railroad and work in a similar fashion, though that's where the similarity ends.

To lay parallel track, use the shift key when you terminate your track, otherwise, they'll snap together.

There are some fixed-track sections and templates to assist you with laying the track and keep the curves correct. The fixed-track are similar to the sectional track found in model railroad layouts and can work as anchors to keep your track in one place. These should change to the track you have attached to them so there will be no difference between what you laid yourself using the spline-track.

The templates work a bit differently, but give you points where you connect your splines to as though you have nails laid down on the baseboard. These are very helpful when laying parallel track and are concerned about specific curved radii.

For the most part, you might find this helpful:

http://trains.0catch.com/tutorial.html

Ignore the point made about AI and track direction the track is laid. This is an urban legend regarding Trainz since day one. You may find it helpful though to lay the track in the direction of travel as that will assist you later when you place signals and other track-object such as switch stands, speed limit signs, and whistle posts.

John

 

[mjolnir]

Also, if I may be so bold, I find track and road splines in Trainz work better in the long run if the track is laid in one direction around the loop. So, if I were trying to accomplish what you are, I'd lay the track on one side, then the adjoining piece on one end, then the adjoining piece on the other side, and finally the piece on the other and of the loop. In each instance after the first, I'd try to start from an end of the track, and lay to the other end, rather than starting from out someplace, and laying the track to the end of existing track. I concede that this is not always possible, but it's a good habit to get into when it is possible.

ns

 

[leksie]

To avoid "snap together" by laying a parallel track you can also "zoom in" with your mouse and then place the second track.