Toy train operating and collecting

I would appreciate some help in this matter. I am currently building my new O layout and I am not sure how I want to do this scenery project. I want to build a mountain in the corner of my layout in the photos shown below. I have a double track main line and I want the tunnel lined. The tunnel will start about where the signal brige is on the left and continue to about 2 to 3 inches before the curve ends to the right. The highest peak on the mountain will be about 12 to 14 inches.

    My problem is, I am not sure of which construction technique to use to construct the mountain and how to line the inside of the tunnel as it is on a curve. I have previously used the old tried and true method of plywood forms covered with screen and plaster. While being very sturdy it is also very heavy when done that way. Any help and suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks, Bob.

The other tunnel portal will be just after the left hand switch on the inner loop. The tunnel will go to about where the signal bridge is just before the arch bridges.

BOB,

  You can use the ceiling tile approach.  Here is a thread on the technique.

http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/p/97143/1132299.aspx#1132299

laz57

Bob:  Can't really help but, I must say, your layout construction looks very sturdy.  Keep up the great work and post some pictures as you progress.

Hey Bob,  I used 1 1/2" pink foam board insulation to build my mountain, I also used it to cover my entire layout.  I glued stacks of the foam board then carved it with a hack saw blade, screw driver, and sure form rasp.  I painted the interior of the tunnel before gluing the top on then painted and scened the entire mountain, I think it turned out pretty good.  Here are a couple of shots during and after of my mountain to give you an idea, it was pretty easy to do and easy to fix mistakes too.  Also, here is a link to a series of video's on youtube that I watched to learn the technique, you will definitely find it useful.  Here is the link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1D4KBB_GC4&feature=related

Good luck and have fun!!

Paul

Cobra - Wow, looks like you've got a great start there.

Here are some of my old threads, perhaps one or two ideas could help:

http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/p/116157/1331224.aspx#1331224

http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/p/143405/1594338.aspx#1594338

George, Paul, Fifedog thanks for the input. Keep it comming. I will post a couple more photos of the layout.

Bob.

Here is the busy center section.

Bob.

And now a shot looking the other way at the busy center section.

Hi,

I hav a tried and tested method. I recently gave a clinic on it at the 14 South African National Model Railroad Convention. It is extremely strong, very light, and easily shaped.

I have a presentation I can email if you want.

Briefly, I build up the strcture with foam board, we call polysturene locally. I then cover the form with paper towels, which are coated in a diluted mix of white glue (wood glue) and water. Depending on the weather, it is generally diluted at 80% water and 20% glue. You can also add colouring to stain the structure. It dries solid and strong within 24 hours.

 I tried to add some pictures to show you, but this did not work.

 You can contact me on ralphdav@tiscali,co.za if you would like a copy of the presentation.

Regards

SPrulz

BOB,

  Here is a site that might interest you?  It is all about model trains.

http://www.thortrains.net/

Just incase you didn't know about this site.  Lots o information.

laz57