It's been awhile... a long while since I've posted anything here in my MRH blog.  Since the last post, I've moved 4 times, changed jobs 6 times, torn down two layouts, and switched modeling interests and scales as well.  Presently, I am building an On30 logging railroad [to be named later] that will be an L shaped, out-and-back with a sector plate on one end and a turntable at the other.  I will post some pictures now and hopefully, I will be back sooner than later with updates and photos on the progress.

The first order of business was to find out what grade the locomotives on hand could actually climb, and do so with a useful load (2 cars). I had wanted 2" of elevation gain with the switchback, but only had 36" total track length to work with, not including the tail track. That's a big ask, unless your name is Shay. Several commenters had noted that there was no way that would work, and I did not doubt them. But you have to try. 

At this point the benchwork is almost done. It is getting pretty exciting because once the room prep and benchwork are done, I can start on the fun part – laying track, model building, and running trains. Not saying I am not enjoying the project already. I like doing design and woodwork. It’s just that I have been waiting a long time to have an operational layout and I am finally right on the cusp of seeing it happen.

This post covers the last bit of odds and ends that I need to finish up so I can say the benchwork and room prep are done.

I have never built a layout this large before and I'm not sure how to frame it.  My last two large layouts were done with L-girder, and that is what I'm trying here.  I like L-girder:  very easy to build, not a lot of skill needed.  Box frame is thinner, but it takes more precision.  What advice do you all have?