Just thought I’de share a bunch of photos since I finally figured out how to post them! This is my 4th layout in 20 some odd years and my 1st in my new home and 1st using l-girder type construction. I’m no pro carpenter, but the benchwork is solid and level. Always used OSB board for subroadbed and have had great success with it. Albeit it’s always in a temperature/humidity controlled environment and at $5.33 a sheet is worth the occasional splinter or two in the finger! (I’de certainly use standard ply but hey: at the price of lumber these days, forget it!) One thing I’ve learned is that good quality pine is getting harder and harder to come by. It took me forever to find enough pieces barely decent enough to use.
Couple sidenotes: Many of the pics are of temporary, possible track and structure arrangements and by no means are they set in stone as far as placement goes. Please forgive the unsightly Atlas t.t. It will be either kitbashed or replaced as I get to that stage. There has been considerable progress since these photos were taken. Once my final roadbed is placed and scenic items are at least off the drawing board, backdrop/fascia construction and painting will be next. Most experts suggest installing those elements during the initial phase of benchwork building, but I like to wait until I’m 95 to 100% sure of where the 3d scenery will be before commencing.
This will be a HO scale freelanced NYC layout running from Boston to SE New Hampshire. (Sorry New Haven fans, but we’re intruding into your space! LOL) Set in the autumn in the late 50s. The layout will include a small town, bayside harbor scene, 1 “big” city, some mountainous terrain, freight yard, engine terminal and numerous lineside industries. Mainline run is a 2x around “loop” with half of that hidden trackage. Overall dimensions are about 28’x14’ with a 6’x5’ peninsula. A hidden staging area will also come into play.
Hope you enjoy these and