SUB-BASE AND BALLAST
by Byron Fenton

For Sub-roadbase A 2" to 5" fill of "ROADBASE" under the ballast is recommended. Road Base is a material that is from crusher fines to 3/4" rock and packs very well. Use the crusher fines (Red, Black, Brown, and Grey are the most common) for final leveling and dressing over the road base for color and ballast. Crusher fines are also known as "Breeze". These materials are available from sand and gravel yards. This can be mixed with other sharp rock (crushed) for color or size. Various sizes of crushed rock from fine to about 1/4" is ideal. You'll have to look around and see what is available. The latest I have used is Grey Breeze (looks like crushed granite and usually is) and it looks good and locks the track in well. If your track has a good base and ballasted, you can walk the rails when dry. If it is really wet it may squish down some when you walk on it. One word of caution, check your ballast with a magnet, if it picks up anything do not use it, it will also pick up on your motors. DO NOT USE SQUEEGEE FOR BALLAST!!! It is rounded rock. It rolls around and will never pack down to a firm base.