I took some time off from the layout itself to work some model kits.  Last week I worked on building the Walther’s Mi-Jack Intermodal Crane.  I have it completed as 2 main sections and tires for painting (probably next weekend).

And then I assembled a Walther’s Double Track Truss Bridge kit, also waiting on a (stainless steel) paint job.

Once those were done I finished up the mounts for backdrop on the layout. Next step is to attach the backdrop itself.

Shaun Benchwork, Scenery

After getting sidetracked for a few days, this evening I snuck away into the garage to get a little layout work done.

I first cut out the river path in the benchtop with the jig-saw.

Next step will be to add some shorter risers and then re-install the cut-out portion to be the river base.

Then I started adding the supports for the backdrop.  I’m 10″ tall 1×2 supports (cut from a 48″ stick) mounted with 2 “L” brackets.  I added a some wood glue underneath too for a little added grip.

Shaun Benchwork

Last night I finished up trimming and taping up the latest track plan on the benchwork.

Today at lunch I went over to Lowe’s (conviently located 1 block from where I work) and picked up a 4×8 sheet of 1/8th masonite hardboard.  I had it cut into 1×8 strips and will use this for the backdrop.  Also got a some 1×2 boards to use for the supports.

Tonight I plan on making “the big cut” and cutting out the river portion of the layout so it can be dropped a few inches.

Shaun Benchwork

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