Recently, the Club was offered a partly built 00 Fine scale layout from an ex-member. It was decided that the base boards, laid trackwork, partially built buildings and scenery would provide the basis for a small exhibital layout. An enthuisiastic group has taken up the challenge and work is under way to add an additional baseboard to allow some extra track, so as to extend the operating potential of this layout. The two existing scenic boards are 36" x 18", and the traveserser board 24" x 12", but this will be extended to 36". The existing SMP Fine Scale track will be matched from existing club stock and points will be purchased. It is not intended to to match any particular region or period.
(left)
The layout as donated showing from nearest the camera, the 3 road traverser, leading to 2 scenic boards with basic scenery, track and station platform. There are roads for a bay platform and a run round loop for the main platform. Also showing roads for the engine shed, goods shed and cattle dock.
(right)
The station area showing the station throat (lower right), the run round loop, bay platform and cattle dock siding. Track will continue beyond the main platform to provide additional storage sidings.
(left)
An additional baseboard was built using the same materials and pattern as the originals. Simple construction of plywood screwed together.
(right)
In common with all recent layout builds in the Club, it was decided to provide integral legs to support it, thus eliminating the need for trestles or tables. We have found this compact method both time and space saving when transporting and setting up at shows.
Here, one of the hinges is screwed into place.
(left)
Close view of the leg assembly showing the metal combined bracing and locking stay.
(right)
The finished assembly. This board only has legs at one end, whilst another having legs at both ends, is erected first, with subsequent boards then attached.
In the background, work continues with our other new project, Loftus Road.
(left)
The baseboards are joined using metal dowels and sockets for accurate location and then bolted together for security.
(right)
Drilling the end of the baseboard to receive a metal dowel.
(left)
Screwing the dowel in place. It is important to ensure that these are fitted flush and square.
(right)
Legs and dowels fitted the board is then offered to the original layout boards.........
(left)
.......and bolted together.
(right)
The extended layout now supports itself.
(left)
Time for a well earned cuppa!
(right)
The new extended traverser board and frame. Now extended to 3' in length in order to accept and dispatch longer train formations.
Compare this with photo 1.
(left)
A different view of the new extended traverser board and frame.
(right)
The traverser board lifted to show the bracing bars.
(left)
Close up of a bracing bar and glide runner.
(right)
The new extension board now has an underlay of cork using 12" square floor tiles.
(left)
The extended traverser board has been similarly treated.
Additionally it has decided that when relaying the track, there will be 4 roads instead of 3.
(right)
The layout has now been wired and sections added. A test train of Ivatt 2-6-2 tank with two coaches arrives at what will become the main station platform.
© 2006
