Benchwork and roadbed
Control Panels
Does anyone know of a shop which makes control panels either from etched anodized Aluminum or plastic?
Joseph F. Santomauro
Washington Central RR
Metal Benchwork
This particular idea of mine was born in an evolutionary manner while figuring out how I was going to construct the shelves for my double-deck layout.
http://model-railroad-hobbyist.com/node/30266
I have been considering both 1) thick foam,.... and 2) sheet plywood for the subroadbed on the bottom deck.
Flex on Cork Louder than Plastic E-Z Track
I recently started a new layout. One of my goals in my new HO layout was to move away from plastic snap together Bachmann track to more realistic Code 83 flex track. As I'm more of an operations guy with limited skill set in preplanning design I loved E-Z Track as it was so easy to make changes. In my quest to be more realistic on my new layout I've spent more time planning as well as upgrading my benchwork and track. My current design is L girder topped with a 1/2" plywood base and then topped with a 1 1/2" thick pink plastic insulation sheathing.&
Sandwich Constructed Subroadbed Panels, Plywood Sheet Alternative
Sandwich Construction
I come from the boat industry where we utilized 'sandwich core construction' (fiberglass skins and foam/honeycomb) type constructions quite often to get stiff, lightweight skins/panels.
I was in a Lowes store yesterday just taking a quick look at plywood qualities and prices. Of course the cabinet grade plywoods looked the best, but were not very cheap.
Fascia ???
Hey Guys,
I'm building a shelf layout and have my benchwork and foam down now I want to put some fascia on the front. I don't know what it is exactly I need to ask for at my local Home Depot. I just want something that is lightweight, sturdy and easy to paint.
If some of you guys could help me out I'd appreciate it.
Pat
Equivalence between plywood and dimensional lumber
As I get ready to build the sectional benchwork of the layout, I am wondering what the equivalence is between plywood and dimensional lumber. Typical L-girder construction uses 1x3 or 1x4 dimensional lumber (clear pine or poplar) which is actually 3/4 x 21/2 or 31/2. I am using nominal 3/4in (23/32) 7 ply plywood acquired on sale at a big box store.
Would a 3 inch strip be equivalent to a 1x4 for the 8ft dimension of a 2x8ft top?
(note: I plan on wood for cross members to allow for edge screws.
How to cut pink foam?
I'm going to be laying some pink foam insulation on top of my benchwork and was wondering what's the best way to cut it so I get nice smooth lines? Also does anyone know by chance if Home Depot would cut it. I'm pretty sure they'll cut wood for you but the foam may be another thing.
Thanka
TOMA layout starting soon!
Ordered benchwork from https://www.sieversbenchwork.com/. Great price and great customer service. Tried a few other companies even a advertiser on this website but they didn't get back to me. Guessing my needs were to small. Fellow member recommended Sievers and happy they did.. check them out if you need mail order benchwork
Benchwork Height
I am considering 50" for the height of the benchwork for my N-scale layout.
I have read much about how benchwork height is a very personal and variable thing. So with that in mind, rather than ask what is the best height for benchwork, the more interesting question is what is the height of your benchwork?
Why did you choose that height?
Any regrets about your choice?
Air brush or paint brush?
I've been building the undecorated 3 bay covered hopper car kits and had a question. The air brush is my go to for large parts and sprues and touch up. The paint brush can be used for certain touch up and works well for those circumstances.
My observation is that I use an awful lot of paint with the air brush on small parts when attached to the sprue, and I get a good and more thorough coverage with the air brush by painting prior to installation.
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