Today I finished up the benchwork by adding the bench-top.  I first installed several risers on the outside edge of the layout.  These risers will let me contour the terrain down a few inches on the scenic side.  It also makes installing under-bench hardware like tortoises easier as there’s no cable-ways or crossbeams in your way.

Once I get track down and see where turnouts will go, I’ll add some more risers in the middle for additional support.

Then it was time for the top.  I used 1/2″  birch bought in 2×4 sheets cut as needed.  I was able reuse everything from the old layout again, along with 1 new purchased piece.

Not shown is some changes to the legs. I decided to remove the wheels and make the layout stationary.  The layout was a little heavy for the wheels on these thing legs.  So those got pulled off, and I then I added 2 additional legs on each side where there was a module joint.

Next up I’ll be printing out the latest track, shown below, in full 1:1 size to layout and plot the backdrop (and then track).

Shaun Benchwork, Track plan