Some time has passed since I started with discussion of my track plan on this forum, and I am starting a new thread for the build. Since I have to squeeze my model railroading activities into my work life, my updates won't be as frequent as I would want them to be.
This is the final layout plan that I settled upon, after valuable input from Byron and by Ed on this forum:
The first couple of post will be to catch up on current status.
I built my table as an open frame grid, in two separate sections connected with bolts in the center, so that I can divide it in case of a move. There is a third small section (visible in the picture upper right corner) which will support the port area:
After pondering my options for the framework/legs (including using ripped plywood strips, like many on the forum recommended), in the end, I found some nice straight 1x2 poplar for the frame, since the local Home Depot would not rip the plywood for me, and I wasn't going to buy a table saw just for that. For the legs, I used some 1x3s and 2x2s that I had on hand from an earlier project. I know the 1x2s sound skinny, but I wanted to make certain it stays light, and the frame is plenty solid. Base height is at 45". I also installed track lighting in the room (barely visible at the top end of the picture).
I then bought myself a piece of foamboard, and placed it temporarily on the grid to lay out the track plan full size, and experiment a little.
I printed out the track plan full size and attached it to the foam board, then added the track. The foamboard will be sacrificial, but it allows me to fine tune the track plan as well as the final borders of the layout, since it is light, cheap and can be easily cut. Once I have determined final track plan and shape, I am planning to use Gatorfoam as my final base. I realize that it is a bit on the expensive size, but during attending a clinic at the Fine Sale Modeling Expo in Altoona in November last year, I became convinced of it's rigidity and complete resistance to warping, while at the same time keeping weight down and being able to easily cut and shape it. And we are not talking about a 1400sqft layout ...
I dreaded creating the backdrop, but finally attacked the project in June. I used tempered hardboard (1 4x8 sheet, cut down the long way in the center), which I screwed to the frame. The rounded corner keeps it nice and stiff, without additional supports needed.
For the time being, I will stick to a blue sky and light clouds that I painted on the backdrop
Next, I installed the risers, the Gatorboard base, and the roadbed (Homabed).
The raised area to the right on the elbow will be the platform for the mining area. I have not yet added the base for the planned small port scene, which goes in below the mine (see the trackplan earlier in the thread).
This past couple of weekends was a lot of progress. Gave my base a brown coat, and then started installing track. Finally, I am able to run some trains!!!
This is an overview of the layout as it currently presents itself. I decided to leave the table open in the center, so that I can access the rear areas of the layout, and make the scenery on the left (behind yard and engine house) as well as in the corner area before the "bridge" removable. This will also allow me to create some of these areas on the workbench, instead of leaning over the layout.
Right wing of the layout with incline to the mining area (port area still missing):
Left wing of the layout with engine service terminal and yard:
For those turnouts that can easily be reached, I have started installation of caboose ground throws, in combination with frog juicers. While those are probably not necessary for my road steam engines (3 2-6-0's 1, 4-4-0), I also have an 0-6-0 Dockside Tank Engine, that may have trouble creeping through the frogs, so I decided to be on the safe side. Real easy to install also while I am building the layout (vs later on). Pictured is the Hex Frog Juicer, all hooked up.
For the turnouts on the left in the back that are difficult to reach, I installed Blue Point Switch machines, and I am using the contacts to power the frogs. Relatively easy install and so far operating reliably.
Looking good!
Mark P.
Website: http://www.thecbandqinwyoming.comVideos: https://www.youtube.com/user/mabrunton