Layouts and layout building

Hi all,

I've looked for an answer to this and only met with limited success.  I need to build modular bench work in the 24 - 30" width range that will not be fastened to any walls.  I'd also like to have more than my current 8' x 12' space has to offer, so I'd like I'd like to have two levels or tiers, connected using a spiral or very long hidden perimeter climb at about 2.5-3%.

My challenge is to build bench work that will support the second tier without sagging or obstructing the view of the first tier.  I've not yet settled on the vertical separation of the two tiers.

I would greatly appreciate ideas and insight in meeting this most important phase of constructing my layout!

Thanks,

BM

  For my benchwork, I built 2x4 moduals and bolted them together with carriage bolts. I could not find any straight lumber, so I cut all of mine from 3/4" plywood. The legs are also made from the same material. If I was to add a second level as you want to, I would bolt 2x4s to the backs of the benches to attach shelves for the upper layer. The 2x4s should be turned with the 2" side facing out so the wider side supports the weight without bending. You might even use two 2x4s side by side for further strength. The 2x4s should run at least four feet down the back of the benches, and be attatched at the top and bottom. For the upper shelves, I would build a box like structure like David Barrows did for the tops of his modular benchwork. I would attach the upper shelves with carriage bolts as well. If you made the back edge of the shelf wider so you can spread the load over a wider area it should be strong enough without any additional supports. I would also keep the upper shelf to about 18" wide. Somebody else may have a better idea, and I admit that I tend to over engineer everthing I build. Hope this helps, or at least gives you some ideas.

BM,

I would suggest you buy and read the new book Kalmbach recently released on the subject. It has answers to most all multi-deck questions you can think of and problems it creates. The photos are worth the cost alone and will answer a lot of the questions you have.

Roger Huber

I would highly recomend the Model Railroader book "Designing & Building Multi-deck Model Railroads" by Tony Koester.  I have a copy and find it to be a great resource.  You can purchase a copy on-line trhough this web site.  I also have Joe Fugate's DVD sets on how he built his mushroom (double deck) layout, which is a great resource too.

Thank you all.  I will take a look at the ideas in the book.  I had considered using 2x2 reinforced with H-beam or similar metal shelving material, but will read up a little more first.

Thanks again, Brian.