the MRH Forum

Need ideas and help with a design Dream and design
Reply
Super User 7,338 posts Deemiorgos Super User 7,338 posts
Deemiorgos

I have a two module switching layout.

https://model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/31151?page=11

It is just a matter of time in regards to having to pack it up again for a future move.

The last time I had it in storage it came out looking like this. Note the surface of what I call the second module didn't even have track laid on it yet. It basically was a cap for the module that already had roadbed on it.

_2917(1).jpg 

Now that the second module is scenicked and has a TT on it,

93g(7).jpg 

I require some sort of cap/cover to protect it from getting nicked or banged up that must have a clearance of 2 1/4".

The cover in this drawing shows the dimensions. The two modules stack on top of each other snugly. I want to make the cover out of something lightweight.

43(1)(2).JPG 

Any ideas would be much appreciated.
Reply 0
Dave.S58 Regular poster 399 posts
Dave.S58

Luan

I would use a !x3 framing around the perimeter with a 1/4" luan top. Should be sturdy and light.

DaveS
Reply 0
DaleMierzwik Frequent poster 930 posts
DaleMierzwik

Gator Board

Although I've never use the stuff it seems like it would lend itself well to that purpose. 

Dale
Reply 0
Nick Santo amsnick MRH Advertiser and MRH Author 2,817 posts
Nick Santo amsnick

Be prepared to ....

put a protective coating on it.  I found that it splintered easily and I got slivers from it.  Probably best if you could cut grooves in pine and make a frame. Insert the luan into the grooves and glue it up.  Weight and strength are good.

Nick

Nick

https://nixtrainz.com/ Home of the Decoder Buddy

Full disclosure: I am the inventor of the Decoder Buddy and I sell it via the link above.
Reply 0
Deemiorgos Super User 7,338 posts
Deemiorgos

Thank you all! I'm not

Thank you all!

I'm not familiar with luan. Is it much lighter than other plywoods? I'll have to go to Home Depot to check it out.

I like the idea of putting a protective coating on it.
Reply 0
ctxmf74 Super User 15,984 posts
ctxmf74

Are the section bottoms delicate?

  Perhaps you could just space the two sections  top face to top face and connect them with spacer boards or metal straps. You could then wrap the assembly with plastic film if need be. The trouble with making a fancy wooden cover is you then have to store it for years until you move again. ...DaveB

1990.jpg 
Read my blog
Reply 0
David Husman dave1905 MRH Author 9,887 posts
David Husman dave1905

Modules

When I moved my layout sections, I put them top to top and then put a piece of 1/4" plywood on the ends and 1/8" hardboard (Masonite, actually recycled backdrop) on the "bottoms" and sides.

Dave Husman

Visit my website :  https://wnbranch.com/

Blog index:  Dave Husman Blog Index
Reply 0
Deemiorgos Super User 7,338 posts
Deemiorgos

Great idea DaveB and DaveH!

Great idea DaveB and DaveH! You're thinking outside of the box/module : ) so to speak.

The sides are made of 3/4 inch ply that are 5 inches in height.

Here is a pic of a cross section; I had to cut the end of the second module to fit the room's dimensions.


IMG_7066.jpg 

IMG_7067.jpg 

 
Reply 0
Deemiorgos Super User 7,338 posts
Deemiorgos

@Dale, First time I've heard

@Dale,

First time I've heard of Gator Board, Thanks.
Reply 0
DaleMierzwik Frequent poster 930 posts
DaleMierzwik

Gator board

Dee,

here is a link to check out gator board

http://www.artsupply.com/foamcore/gatorboard.htm

Dale
Reply 0
Deemiorgos Super User 7,338 posts
Deemiorgos

Thanks for the link, Dale.

Thanks for the link, Dale.
Reply 0
Deemiorgos Super User 7,338 posts
Deemiorgos

I'm thinking of making the

I'm thinking of making the spacer boards into plates out of 3/4 " ply and attaching to some of them casters. Will come up with a drawing soon.
Reply 0
Reply