New Layout

[Anonymous]

I am building a new layout, approximately 8X12' L shape (HO) and have more or less finished the benchwork. It is sectional (4 Pieces) half inch plywood on 1x4 s. In an attempt to make it as light as possible, I have cut out many holes. On top will go 3 inches of blue foam. I hope to have some pictures of what I have don so far in tomorrow or Wedsnaday. What do you think?

Thanks, DON

[Bikerdad]

Would I be correct in assuming that you did the cutouts because the layout needs to be moved at some time in the forseeable future? If so, then I'm not sure why you even used the plywood, or used 1/2" (1/4" will give you all the strength you need in this application). On the other hand, if it doesn't need to be moved, why do the cutouts? Just curious.

Ditto for the 3" of foam. Again, I'm assuming you've gone with three inches because somewhere on the layout you know you'll need to go about 3" below grade, or you happen to have gotten a great deal on 3" foam!

Because you're doing sectional, it might be a good idea to put alignment pins (or something similar) in for the sections, make it much easier if you ever have to put things back together in the future.

[Anonymous]

Hi Don and [#welcome] to Forums
Well, it's a little late to suggest it now, but I would have recommended using 1"x 2"'s to support the foam. One thing you might find difficult with 3" foam is running the wires from the rails. Next time you're at the hardware store pick up a extra long 1/8" drill bit. Get a piece of 1/8" brass tubing or drinking straw, run it up through the hole from the bottom and guide the wire through the tube out the bottom and remove the tube

[Anonymous]

[:)] Thanks guys for the nice welcome! Yes , Iam new to this forum.

Yes, I did the cut outs to try and keep it as light as possible and it will be moved from the garage where I am building it. and good question!!!!! tes, I debated long and hard about using 1/2 ply but when you see the shape I have cut out, I think you will understand why. Lots of curves! and I can eventually glue and screw a nice 7 inch facia piece to the edges. (all the way around) I also used the half inch so that I can put in pull out drawers for the dcc and other stuff which will look like part of the facia when pushed in flush. Hope this makes sense.! lol

No, I did not get a deal on the 3 inch foam! Cost me an arm and leg but really wanted it so I could go deep below grade for the rivers. just trying to make it more dramatic visually.

I am using 4 large bolts and fender washers to tie the 4 pieces together!

Beautiful piece of work using the drinking straw to run wires thru the foam!!!! had not thought of that! Thank you!!!!!! Love it!!!!

Thanks for the replys! I'll get some pics in tomorrow!

[Anonymous]

DNNNNN, sounds to me like you have your "act pretty well together." With 1/2" plywood and 3" foam, the 1x4's are probably a good idea. You probably won't be senecking any time soon but when you do, the 1x4's should serve well for supporting the extra weight. My question is will you be using ground throws, top or under surface switch machines?

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the nice comment TED. I hope I have my act together LOL Spent a lot of time building the benchwork but its something I enjoy doing!

I will eventually have switch machines of some kind and I know of the problems with foam. I guess I will cross that bridge when I come to it lol Part of the fun of Model railroading is figureing all this stuff out. I do like the realism and clean lines of the switches without the above table switch machines. In the past, they have all been under the table.

DON

[Anonymous]

Don, in my opinion "under the table" [switch machines] is a good choice. Are the "cut-outs" planned for easy access to maintain "hard to reach" areas? Pending the "pix" of your benchwork; I don't wi***o tie-up your time from "doing" instead of "talking." So, knowing that "one picture is worth a thousand words;" maybe we should "let the games begin!" The great thing about this hobby is you can NOT make a mistake that can NOT be fixed. With a good scale drawing to anticipate future pitfalls, one can avoid wasted materials and time. Best of luck while keeping the whole thing fun.

[JohnT14808]

Shoot, Ted, with 3 inches of foam to play with, he doesn't HAVE to go under the layout for the turnout motors. Just dig a hole (to match) in the foam and "plant" it!!! [:D] Beats having the throw bar bending (and not throwing the points correctly) over the three inches.

[Anonymous]

Yes JohnT14808, I "mispoke" in my second posting. I should have said "under the surface" as per my first posting. It pays to refer back to the "original," doesn't it? My switch machines are "buried" in Homasote" also. For sure, the fewer linkage rods, the better! The main thrust of my second posting is the question: "Are the cut-outs planned for easy access to maintain hard to reach areas?" The mention of a "scale drawing" refers to the possible "pit falls" of cutting anything prior to a "foot print" track plan. We all have DOMMM's best intrests at heart, right?. Regards