Sometimes, problems cannot be fixed without a lot of effort; patches do not work and produce only more frustration.  One specific rail section and joint in the northern curve in the canyon was a continual problem.  But due to the scenery, I could not see the real causes so it was time to remove the mountains to be able to correct this once and for all.

Plus, there were other benefits:

• The ultimate fix was to go down to the risers, level them, and re-configure the radius for the plywood and dense foam.  Only then could the track be properly re-installed using staggered joints.
• The process also allowed proper installation of the hidden staging curves on the lower level. It was almost impossible install a smooth radius when you can't really see what you see doing.  Where is the surprise there?
• Install the viaduct where the canyon curve transitions to the main frame work.

With the canyon walls removed (cut into large sections with a hack saw blade to allow re-installation) I could see why the offending rail joint/track section was causing derailments of the Genesis SD75s with their long, wheelbase trucks.

Two previous attempts at correction had actually made the problem area worse. A 39-inch radius too quickly transitioned to a 36 right where a non-staggered joint was.  Now, the entire curve is 36-inch.  The extra room will also allow for a better looking canyon wall landscape.