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I've arrived at the point on my layout where Ive realized that I have to build a bridge before I can run the trains. The existing overpass of 1" foam over 3/4" plywood doesn't leave enough clearance for the train to pass underneath, but I'll have plenty of clearance once the bridge is built. It'll be just under 16" long, and on a slight curve. The bridge will be straight, but wide enough to accomodate the curved track in it, just like the big boys would do. The bridge is this long because the track below it curves as well. I've got a book on bridges, designs, changes in designs over time, etc., and I've settled on building a wooden truss through bridge. It's not completely prototypical for the stuff I'll be running, but I figure it'll be easier to mimic a wooden bridge than a steel bridge, and besides, it's my layout and I'll build whatever I think looks good, right? I figure I've got a RR running on the cheap, and until the bridge can no longer pack the weight, we'll keep the wood until we HAVE TO upgrade it to steel, right? Questions for the group: 1. How would I model the bolts on the top of the steel suspension rods? I'll be using piano wire for the rod, but need to have a "big nut and washer" on the end of the rod. Suggestions? I'll be painting the piano wire a rusty brown / black. 2. How would you fini***he wood? My book says that the older bridges weathered to gray, whereas the "new" bridges were treated with creosote and weathered to a gray / brown. 3. Should I fini***he wood before or after I assemble it? Any suggestions you'd give would be appreciated. Mark in Utah
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