The first level of the helix has taken shape.  Here’s the basic rundown of how I’m constructing it:

1. Insert helix slates into each support to construct a single level.
2. Using some sectional track, install a test loop just to test out the level.
3. One support at time, glue the slates to inside support only with gorrilla wood glue.  This allows me to remove the outer support to make inserting the next level’s slates easier.
4. Install roadbed material. I’m using foam as I can apply in one continuous piece easily through the whole the level.
5. Install track. Attached to roadbed with silicone caulk. All railjoiners will be soldered, and every other railjoiner will be a terminal feeder.
6. Repeat process for next level

I’m out of roadbed material I found so I’ve got an order in for some more, so it’ll probably end of the week or early next when I can go through and finish the first level to continue. But so far so good.

And just a shot of my signals I got the other week. I’ve started doing some of the wiring on the wiring panel for the hardware to run these.

Shaun Previous Layout

After a delay, I finally got to work this weekend on doing prep work on the helix components before starting construction.

As previously mentioned, I’m using a kit from Ashlin Trains for my helix. This saves me the hassle of cutting all my own circular parts and supports, etc… since I don’t have the needed the tools. The one problem I’ve found though is some of the slots in the support columns are just a hair to small for the circular pieces. You can probably push and wiggle them in, but it can a be hassle and you risk breaking something.

So I grabbed some metal files from the toolbox and started filing away at the upper opening in each slot that needs a little widening. This leaves me a nice sized slot that lets the circular pieces easily slide in for gluing later.

I’ve also received my order of signals from Custom Signals Systems for the layout and they look fantastic! I can’t wait to get them hooked up. Of course, I still need to finish the wiring panel for logic hardware. I’ll probably get around to that in a few weeks once the helix done.

Shaun Previous Layout

I decided to go ahead and redo my helix to a double track helix using an Ashlin Designs kit.

I’ve also started work on the 2nd wiring panel. My lower level signals will be arriving in a couple days so I need to get the control system for that in place.  Here’s the SIGM20 with some RJ11 jack ready for installation and wiring to each other.

Otherwise, not much progress going on lately. Being busy with side projects and playing with my other hobby, r/c cars.

Sorry for the low-res pics. Camera is in the shop for repair at the moment.

Shaun Previous Layout