FasTrack Layout Table Questions

[Anonymous]

As another Newbie I'd like to thank all who make this forum so incredibly helpful. Having read all the pros and cons re: FasTrack (Thanks especially toBrianel027's Nov.25 entry!) I've decided it still suits my application (childplay with room to grow, play activity more important but certainly some buildings). My questions are: 1) if I make my table 8' X 5' will this help alleviate some of the restrictions imposed by the 0-36 FasTrack? 2) I'm thinking of banding with 5" X 3/4" with aprox. 2" above playing surface. Does this sound reasonable? 3) I'm planning on the playing surface being aprox. 30" above floor so that 5 year olds will be able to use. Sound reasonable? 4) I'm thinking of putting super sturdy wheels with strong brakes on table legs so it can be moved about as required (wide open floor plan in our house). Is this reasonable?
Again, I sure do appreciate all the headaches, time, and money that you experienced folks save us newbies by sharing your knowledge and time with us![/left]

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[Roger Bielen]

Hi Ron, welcome to the hobby and the forum.

To answer your questions I looked at a Lionel catalogue, "Lionel Classic Trains, Vol. 1, 2003". They have a few plans using Fastrack, pgs. 124 & 125. For a basic loop they show an outside diam. of 39 1/2". With your 5' dimension you could add at least a 10" straight to this.

As to the banding its a good idea when the kids are involved, they sometimes get carried away with speed, or if a coupler opens and the engine takes off.

The 30" should be good, but you might want to check on the reach for the kids at that height.

For the legs, don't forget to angle brace them since I sure the board will be getting leaned on frequently.

Enjoy.

[Big_Boy_4005]

Welcome aboard Ron!

So, it sounds like you want to create a 5' x 8' play table, with a rim, that can be moved around. (Gee, I wish my dad had been that handy when I was 5.)

The over all plan sounds pretty good to me. Here are a couple of ideas for you to consider.

Instead of using legs, build it with a lower platform, which could be used for storage. Solid end walls, and a center support wall running lengthwise, will make it very sturdy for moving, and hold your wheels better.

I'm not sure what you plan to use on the table top, but check out this post about carpet, sound and velcro, it might be just right for you.

http://www.trains.com/community/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=10532

Have fun, and email me if you want drawings or plans.
Elliot

I was still typing when Roger submitted his response, but it looks like we share the same concearn for stability. Also dont forget to use a router to round over the sharp edges, especially on the rim rails.

[Anonymous]

Roger & Elliot: Thanks kindly for your thorough & helpful replies. I wanted to
be able to fold the table so I braced legs with turnbuckles. So far it's wortking
very well! Am using it bare for now and will keep pondering the covering issue!
Thanks again!

[Big_Boy_4005]

You're welcome Ron, its always nice to hear that suggeations have been helpful. Thanks for keeping us posted.[:)]