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Layout construction
I think this a great feature of the MR web site! The photos and information are very helpful.
Helps me understand things I was confused about
I think need some more learning about it how to making a creating.
This is helpful because I am at this beginning stage. Knowing the length I can build a bench like this is very informative. Now I need to go buy that 1X4 vertical beam.
These tips are a waste of time reading them. More like model railroading for infants.
So far, the price is right and some of us are infants in the making of model railroad layouts. For the more “advanced” builders, move on the the more advanced layouts.
Good piece. I believe the article should be expanded slightly: first, a few labels on the photo would be helpful to explain some terms that might not be familiar to all (e.g., joist, flange, girder); second, perhaps another photo or two to illustrate the notion of “open-grid benchwork” and elevated track roadbed.
I just finished my benchwork for O scale. I read two good books by Model Railroader to get an idea of L-Girder. The tables are so strong you can sit on them. Sounds silly but I do not like any shaking when we are operating it.
The latest project layout used L-girders and open grid a the same time. Seems very heavy to me, but also very sturdy. If weight is an issue, replace the open grid and track supports with foam insulation to reduce the weight.
I’ve tryed building a 4 by 8 set befor and failed in misery now I can see why…Thanks!
Do the cross sections on top of the L girder get glued or screwed together i am not really sure ? thanks
what other ways to build bench construction are there, or are you guys just set on this type(L- gider)?
done the 4*8 flat layout, not impressed, will now try the L- girder layout system. would have liked a bit more information.
With the open beam design, how do you install surface facilities like buildings, roads, turntables, etc?
What’s purpose of flange? ?
Structural strength would be better if flange was on bottom of beam.
Joists are attached to beam using 1x2 braces attached to joist.
Instead of a flat 4X8 sheet of ply wood how about an article on how to have and open track where only the wood necessary to support the track is used and the open part for scenery?
IT IS DIFFICULT TO VISULIZE A MULTI-LAYER DISPLAY WITH THE LIMITED PHOTO IN THIS ARTICAL. ALSO WHAT IS A GOOD LAYER TO “TOP” THE PLYWOOD FOR SOUND SUPPRESION AND REALISUM.
Instead of a flat 4X8 sheet of ply wood how about an article on how to have and open track where only the wood necessary to support the track is used and the open part for scenery?
I have some advise for beginers … first , take your time and have fun . I suggest to cut that 4’x8’ sheet into two sections. Cut the board longwase to 2’x8’, to get two 2’x8’ sections, then build two layout sections . Building the layout this way has more pros than cons.First you can reach it better from all sides , second you don’t bend over finished scenery , third … you can add on to both sides when you are finished .