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.