Thank you James and Tom for your replies. They were very helpful! Yes, I will post pictures of my Big Thunder Model once it's more underway. I've just completed the 5' by 5' table and initial benchwork. I also got the track specs of the ride off ebay.com, as well as 1,000 photos off flickr.com.

As far as the dynamics of the track. It's not going to rely on gravity. Powerful grade 50 neodymium small magnets will hold the train on the track. These magnets are so powerful they could suck the Tin Man through a key hole. Electricity will control the speed. Similiar concept to those rollercoaster-style race car track toys at Toy's R' Us, but on a much much smaller scale.

Thanks again for your ideas and web sites.

p.s. Tom, the CD train layout is great!!! Very impressive.

Regards,
- Scott

Hi there. I am making an N-scale version of the Disneyland rollercoaster Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. I'm in the process of modifying N-scale track to allow it to handle 30 degree angled turns and steep drops. Magnetism and wheels with large flangs will help keep the train on the track. The question is ... for N guage, what wheels have the widest rims and deepest flanges?