Benchwork begins …
Hi all,
Well, after about 20 years since I first started modelling in HO, and about 2 years of planning the layout in the current train room, I have finally started on the benchwork.
I will be kicking off with the storage yards and laying all the track and points and getting the point motors installed. Then will come the benchwork and spline roadbed towards Kankool. More details on spline roadbed later.
Here are some shots of the first sections of benchwork. Click on the image to view a larger version. Use your browser’s BACK button to return to this page.
I started off making sections of ‘L’ girder from 2×1 and 3×1 DAR pine which were screwed to the walls, then using sheets of 2440 x 1220 x 9mm 5 ply exterior grade plywood cut in half to give 2440 x 610mm sheets, 2×1 DAR pine was glued and screwed to the front edge of each sheet. This helps to strengthen the front edge and to keep it straight.
The supports for these sheets were then made from more 2×1 and braced back to the wall. The finished height to the top of the plywood is 42 inches (1067mm). The plywood will then be screwed down to the joists, with joining plates attached under each join to give added strength.
I have still to build the supporting framework in the corner to carry this section of plywood.
I hope to complete all this first section of benchwork next week and begin marking out the track centres for the yards and start laying track.
Cheers for now.
Posted on Jun 25, 2011, in Benchwork and tagged L-girder benchwork. Bookmark the permalink. 2 Comments.
Gday Ian,
Must be exciting finally making a start. Not real exciting making all that mess in the new room! Shows your having fun but. Is that a roiller door behind the access hatch. Great idea. Just wondering what was your final heights for both your levels?
Will be watching your progress.
Ian
Ian, yes it is exciting, but the mess will be handled with the vacuum cleaner every so often!! That is a roller door behind the access door. It allows access outside for the building work as well as an ’emergency’ exit. Storage yards are at 42″ and Ardglen will be at 72″. Cheers.