Hi everyone!
After a few weeks of building structure models, I am ready to start building my first layout. It will be in N scale. First, I need to build a benchwork. My brother will assist me in this step.
What should the first things I should check?
Here is a photo of a bench that look very interesting. I like the idea to have a shelf under the bench to put materials, boxes ... This bench will be the first part of my N scale layout.
I am waiting for your advice.
Stef
On my second N scale layout. First was a shelf long ago and current one is 3.5 ft by 5 ft using similar benchwork as your pic which I have seen. That base works for a core door or foam board base. I am building the MR project layout The Virginian and the benchwork style could be universal, might want to take a look via Google. Video series was readily accessible pre new website (bummer). Maybe pick up a copy of Basic Model Railroad Benchwork. Usually used copies out there at www.Abebooks. I think a lot depends on your layout and terrain changes. One thing to plan for is if you are using DCC, incorporating a shelf for booster and any power district boards and circuit wiring. I tucked a small shelf under one side, up closer to the underside of layout and hidden by bead board trim.
That Benchwork is fine and will allow you to grow a layout into something bigger later on.
Have you worked out what you want to put on top of it? Design of the track plan? The theme you would like to run?
Might I suggest that you read a free article I have as well as refer to the second issue of www.railmodelleraustralia.com (free download but a small donation is always welcome) where I discuss trying out a layout plan using "Trainz" the computer program. Check you PM for my email and I can send you the article from many years ago!
Take Care
Cheers from Australia
Trevor
Thanks for your help guys. Any other tips to build my first workbench?
Hi, there,
What are you not sure of? Benchwork construction? The L Girder frame work? We can give you a lot of clues but a couple of pointers as to what you are actually looking for would go well,
What will be the size and shape of your eventual layout?
That drawing looks fine, but a lot more framing than I ever do. You could build the framework far more simply.
Rich
Alton Junction
Stef,
I think you're doing fine. I built my first table much like your diagram.
One thing I added was a diagonal brace front to back. The diagram shows only diagonal braces right to left. The front to back ones are probably not needed, but I lean on the table quite a bit from the front, and the front to back braces stopped the movement.
York1 John
York1 Stef, I think you're doing fine. I built my first table much like your diagram. One thing I added was a diagonal brace front to back. The diagram shows only diagonal braces right to left. The front to back ones are probably not needed, but I lean on the table quite a bit from the front, and the front to back braces stopped the movement.