Hello all,
Building a small N scale layout based of the local Metro and was wondering if anybody has tried using casters and foldable legs.
I need it to fit fit in the back of my pickup, but then has to be rolled over a distance on casters, and remain on the casters for some hours.
I'm considering pocket legs with the leg and caster folded away (http://model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/18409)
or some folding brackets like these (https://woodworker.com/heavy-duty-folding-wooden-leg-fitting-mssu-115-637.asp)
But am not certain if either options will support the weight with usage (it's a foam base with plywood supports, say 35 pounds right now or 50-65 completed - made it light as possible).
Any ideas on having a mobile, foldable support?
Thanks,
-Andy
We use fittings that look very similar to that on the newer modules for the club modular layout (many of the older ones just have pockets, many of those without even a bolt and wingnut to secure it - just lift the module up and the legs fall off). What we don't have is casters on the bottom. Only danger I would see is that if the catch on the leg mount tripped when the caster hit something and the leg would fold up and dump the layout. Big heavy duty casters would probably be ok as long as you aren't rolling it outdoors.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
We've got several Free-mo modules with folding legs using those clever metal folder-thingys. And we've got modules that have leg pockets.
The plus for the folders is that you can't forget them. Yeah. I know. HOW could THAT happen?
The plus for the pockets is that the individual pieces then weigh less. 'Cause you can take the legs off. Probably not a problem for you, but it is for me. My legs, after installation, are attached with 3/8" bolts. So they aren't likely to fall off.
I agree with Randy as to "catching" a caster. Done right, you'll snap a leg or two right off. So: no mistakes!
And I also agree that the bigger the wheel, the less the problem.
FWIW: I can assemble my two modules together. I can then attach two wheels on the bottom, and push them around like a hand truck. Those wheels are 14" diameter. And can't snap off.
Ed
I built Phase 1 of my layout on legs with casters. It's 5 x 12 feet, .and rolls easily on carpet.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.