Today I worked on connecting the helix to the upper level, the mainline at least. Just need to connect the siding to the turnout.
The turnout will be located behind the backdrop, so I installed an LED indicator next to the pushbutton switch. Green = mainline, Red = siding.
Like the turnout power, I installed a second RJ11 jack for the LED wiring (shown to the right of the tortoise).
Power is carried up to the box, routes through the tortoise, then back down to the LED on the lower level fascia via RJ11 (Telephone) cable to another box (connected to the LED wiring). The hole under the pushbutton is for the lower level helix entry turnout pushbutton, to be installed soon.
Had a busy weekend working on the railroad. First up, the helix. After two months of off and on work I finally got it completed and installed in it’s space. I’m working on gluing down the lower level track first. I’m really glad I re-did it double track. I feel I like I’m using all the available space to its fullest potential.
Once the track in installed I’ll wire up the helix for power.
I also did some work on the lower level backdrop. I first painted in some background and horizon mountains. I think it turned out fairly well for someone with no artistic talent. I wasn’t sure how big to make the trees and stuff on the horizon line, but I think it works.
I then started to place strips of cardboard to build up some cliffs. I’ll hot glue those in place as I work on it this week.
I wasn’t sure how big to make the trees and stuff on the horizon line, but I think it works.
