Well, I started the demo thread and have some stuff completed on the new layout. No trackwork but a large workbench area and crew lounge. When I figure out how to do the large photos I'll post them.
Also, I'll wait until the forum guys set the threads up so we can link our photos to the correct sentence instead of having all the photos show up at the bottom of the post.
Tom :)
I'll be keeping an eye on this one too, to make sure you stay out of trouble... ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on December 21, 2013, 09:23:16 AM
Well, I started the demo thread and have some stuff completed on the new layout. No trackwork but a large workbench area and crew lounge. When I figure out how to do the large photos I'll post them.
Also, I'll wait until the forum guys set the threads up so we can link our photos to the correct sentence instead of having all the photos show up at the bottom of the post.
Tom :)
Tom,
I will be sending you some more layout concepts based on you and Greg's recent layout drawing. Lot's of run time on these ideas. If I don't talk to you before Wednesday, have a very Merry Christmas.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: erieman on December 21, 2013, 04:36:05 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on December 21, 2013, 09:23:16 AM
Well, I started the demo thread and have some stuff completed on the new layout. No trackwork but a large workbench area and crew lounge. When I figure out how to do the large photos I'll post them.
Also, I'll wait until the forum guys set the threads up so we can link our photos to the correct sentence instead of having all the photos show up at the bottom of the post.
Tom :)
Tom,
I will be sending you some more layout concepts based on you and Greg's recent layout drawing. Lot's of run time on these ideas. If I don't talk to you before Wednesday, have a very Merry Christmas.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
I appreciate your help with the ideas. I can't wait to get going on this and I have plenty of photos to share on the start. I'm still in the dark on how to make the pictures larger and I'm also waiting for the Admin. to fix it so we can place the pictures where needed.
Tom
Tom,
I guess I should have posted my comment here instead of the other thread. Anyway, I got the drawing that Greg put together. i have a few comments and concerns and will spend some time drawing and discussing my ideas with John during his visit. Have a wonderful and Merry holiday. we will be getting together with the grandkids later today. More food and dessert :) :) :). Everybody knows i like dessert!
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
I don't know how I missed your post. Oh yea, I was counting all my Christmas train money and stuffing my face with eggnog pie! I even had a little liquid eggnog!
Thanks for stopping by and I hope Santa was good to you as well!
Tom
Uncle Tommy,
I still don't think you have near enough "Diet Pepsi" on hand to build a new railroad! Enough said!
:) :) :)
I'm not sure he even has enough Diet Pepsi on hand to finish
Pam's painting requirements!
Model railroads are easy - a wife's painting requirements, Not so easy!
Of course, he had to re-do everything after he painted a steam locomotive on their bedroom wall! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Uncle Tommy,
I think before you start all these "projects" you should first put in a pipeline to your local "Diet Pepsi" bottling plant. That way you can be assured that you will never run out of the "juice" at a critical time during a project.
Hehe
;D ;D ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on February 09, 2014, 11:56:10 PM
I'm not sure he even has enough Diet Pepsi on hand to finish
Pam's painting requirements!
Model railroads are easy - a wife's painting requirements, Not so easy!
Of course, he had to re-do everything after he painted a steam locomotive on their bedroom wall! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
I'm sorry for not responding earlier to your post. I didn't see it and I was knee deep in 1:1 stuff as Frank can tell you. Not that he was here but we spoke often on the phone.
HMMM, a loco on the wall. What a great idea and some say you are crazy!
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on February 14, 2014, 11:06:30 AM
Uncle Tommy,
I think before you start all these "projects" you should first put in a pipeline to your local "Diet Pepsi" bottling plant. That way you can be assured that you will never run out of the "juice" at a critical time during a project.
Hehe
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
I've had so much Diet Pepsi during this 1:1 stuff and the layout removal that my Baby Blue Eyes are now Diet Pepsi Brown! HA and LOL, Where is my "laughing my A-- off guy" icon Jimmy had on the other forum?
I think it's time for another phone call. I'll give you a call in a few days.
Tom ;D
Instead of starting yet another thread on the new layout build I thought I'd just add it here. I'll be posting my comments from the other thread here without the comments of members who posted their comments and thoughts on the new layout. They are more than welcome to do so here. Several of the following comments of mine are verbatim and others are paraphrased.
I'll comment on photos/pictures where necessary. Let me say here a hearty "Thank You" to all those that may be following me in this adventure.
FROM THE OTHER FORUM:
I'm starting this thread to document for my forum members my new layout build. I've found in the past, posting something I'm doing keeps me focused and interested in sharing what I've been doing.
As many of you know, I've been at the other layout for about 4-5 years now and decided to make a drastic change by going to a three level shelf style layout. I say shelf style as the layout will be no wider than 27" from back to front. Of course the helix and roundhouse will be wider.
There were two priorities I was set on when I decided to change the layout. I needed a larger, more user friendly work area and I wanted a mini-crew lounge.
Old work area -
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314174407.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314174433.jpeg)
New work area!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314174524.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314174557.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
More new work area photos.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314174620.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314174656.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314174735.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314174801.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314174834.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I was discussing the new layout with my good friend Frank, Erieman, Baker and he said he had a few ideas for me to look at and consider. The first drawing he sent me was a museum style where it is a total walk around.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314181354.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314181354.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314181414.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314181414.jpeg)
Frank uses a small semi-helix in a mushroom style to get from one level to the other. Here is a photo of that helix on Frank's layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314181442.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314181442.jpeg)
Here is onother concept drawing Frank sent me.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314181504.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300314181504.jpeg)
More tomorrow evening.
Tom
Great thread - It will be very interesting to see how your design develops. I hope you have a place near by that you can run trains while you design and build the new layout.
Quote from: S&S RR on March 30, 2014, 06:34:26 PM
Tom
Great thread - It will be very interesting to see how your design develops. I hope you have a place near by that you can run trains while you design and build the new layout.
John,
Thanks for checking in and no, I don't have a place to run trains as yet. But I'll get there very soon.
Tom ;D
Hope 'get there soon' ain't in Arkansas 'Ledbetter' time!
The Ledbetters are slower than a one-legged cat in a sandbox.
Quote from: gnatshop on March 30, 2014, 11:51:49 PM
Hope 'get there soon' ain't in Arkansas 'Ledbetter' time!
The Ledbetters are slower than a one-legged cat in a sandbox.
Gman,
That must be one stinky sandbox!
Tom ;D
Everything in the Ledbetter household is 'stinky', includin' yesterday's breakfast egg and sardine
casserole!
But that one-legged cat is a busy li'l bugger coverin' up all the poop on here!
Quote from: gnatshop on April 02, 2014, 09:37:00 PM
Everything in the Ledbetter household is 'stinky', includin' yesterday's breakfast egg and sardine
casserole!
But that one-legged cat is a busy li'l bugger coverin' up all the poop on here!
Egg and sardine? I don't even have a come back or thought on that!
Very sick face goes here! Tom ;D
I was talking to my good friend, Greg DeMayo, and was telling him of a possible plan for the upper level of the new layout!
We were discussing the different radius I could use in the area. I was telling him how the Judge and I were testing the Walthers heavyweights and Walthers Pullman Standard cars on different curves. Walthers states the heavyweights will work on 28" radius. Well, technically they will but not in reverse. In reverse they bind at the corners or end diaphrams and derail. They will go around a 28" radius but they certainly don't look right doing it.
I tested the cars with a long passenger train using the Walthers heavyweights and the pullman standard/fluted side passenger cars. The Judge and I tested them forward and reverse on 30", 32", 34" and 36" radius curves. This information was critical for me as a big part of the new layout on the upper level will involve long passenger trains backing into a Union Station such as the one in Jacksonville, Florida. Another critical piece of data I needed was to see what would fit and what looked normal.
After the passenger car backing testing, I decided they will work on 34" radius curves in reverse with no binding between the cars. They run just fine in forward. Now, obviously 36" or highter is best but 36" radius is all I have to spare. So, for backing into the station I can safely use the 34" radius curve and 34" to 36" radius curves on the rest of the layout and mainline.
Greg worked up a little CAD drawing of the third level using the 34" radius curves in the corners. It isn't a track plan as such but will give me a better idea of what and where a track plan will and won't fit. His CAD drawing is shown below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414133628.jpeg)
Continued later this afternoon.
One of the things I've changed on the plan as shown above is the location of the helix! I've decided to move the helix to the upper left of the drawing in the set out of the room. The size of this set out is approximately 6' 10" X 10' give or take an inch. This area will easily handle a two track helix with the inside track 34" and the outside 36" radius.
Again, referring to the diagram above you can see how the helix extends beyond the bookcase. Since I've added the other bookcase the helix and waterfront will no longer be located there.
Tom ;D
Over the past several months I'm been in many conversations with Erieman, Frank Baker. Frank volunteered to draw a few track plans. I told Frank I didn't want him to go to any trouble for me as I know he is working on his own Morristown and Erie layout! He said it would be fun and besides I needed a few different people looking at it to give me a better idea on what I could do. The following three images are another set of ideas from Frank.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414134842.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414134842.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414134901.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414134901.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414134919.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414134919.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Frank and I are pretty much on the same page as far as the layout concept of around the wall is concerned. Notice how he moved the helix to the upper left. This is the set out in my room I was referring to. Notice also he has a double helix? When he first sent me this drawing and I saw the double helix my first impression was, "What the He-- is that"? More on this later.
Anyway, back to the drawings. He shows the passenger back in area on the second/middle level where I have plans for it on the top/third level.
For the lower level I plan to have it serve strictly as a staging area for all the trains. No scenery will be on this level.
After speaking to Frank about his ideas and mine he went back to the drawing board.
Continued in a few.
Frank sent me another set of track plans for the new Atlantic and Southern.
In the first photo below you can see where Frank states the double helix serves as double service as one is for going up and the other is for going down.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414140525.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414140541.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414140601.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Frank and I spoke on the phone one day for about 45 minutes. During the conversation I came up with the idea of using the middle/second level for a large freight facility and yard area. This is where he shows the passenger station.
Later I decided to use this area for rural industries and a few complicated switching moves to get to certain industries.
I do like the idea of the passenger station on the top level but the yards will be on the sides. I'll have a yard on each level, meaning the second and third levels. This way, the operator will have the ability to move cars from one level to the other as if they were being moved to another part of the country.
Below are yet two other track plan concepts Frank came up with. Frank has more talent in his little finger than I do using all my skills.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414142751.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414142751.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414142811.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414142811.jpeg)
What I like about this set of drawings is the fact I can have a city above the top level of the helix. Frank's drawings really give us a visual of things that may be.
I'll stop here for today as I've given ya'll a whole bunch of ideas to digest!
Thanks for following and any ideas you have are welcome.
Tom ;D
Uh.....my head was hurting from reading and testing some complex programs here at work so I thought I'd stop by and see what Tom was up to. Now my head really hurts! :o Looks like a fun layout to run trains on but I could never, ever come up with concepts like that. :D I'm doing good just to plan a simple oval. ;D Guess I'll stick to building structures.
I am looking forward to seeing where this journey takes us.
Quote from: ReadingBob on April 03, 2014, 03:35:14 PM
Uh.....my head was hurting from reading and testing some complex programs here at work so I thought I'd stop by and see what Tom was up to. Now my head really hurts! :o Looks like a fun layout to run trains on but I could never, ever come up with concepts like that. :D I'm doing good just to plan a simple oval. ;D Guess I'll stick to building structures.
I am looking forward to seeing where this journey takes us.
Bob,
Sorry to hear about the "head hurt" but I understand your thought process. I've learned to "Chew the meat and spit out the fat" so to speak!
I'm using Frank as my concept man! He says he loves it, I'm not sure. I'll take his word for it! I just don't have the vision for track planning concepts like this. Maybe this is the reason my other layout track plan failed me. :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[
I'm happy you are joining me on the journey. As my friend Bilbo
Baggins said, "I'm going on an adventure". This has certainly been an adventure but I plan to clear the smoke in the next few posts.
Tom ;D
I think you'll be satisfied with 34" minimum; the Hub Division's modular uses 32" on the inside main, and both commercial and kit passenger equipment behaves well. You do need to trim the underframe & trucks a bit on the older Branchline Pullman kits, and watch out for cylinder/cab overhang with 8-coupled steam.
Quote from: jbvb on April 03, 2014, 11:19:54 PM
I think you'll be satisfied with 34" minimum; the Hub Division's modular uses 32" on the inside main, and both commercial and kit passenger equipment behaves well. You do need to trim the underframe & trucks a bit on the older Branchline Pullman kits, and watch out for cylinder/cab overhang with 8-coupled steam.
James,
Thanks for checking in, much appreciated. I learned early on to trim the Walthers heavyweight car trucks as well. I haven't had the truck problem with the Branchline heavyweights but then I've only run two although I have six more that need building.
Tom ;D
I have one more set of concept drawings for the new layout from Frank Baker, Erieman! Frank has been a great source of ideas. With this last set, I told him I had plenty of ideas to draw on.
Thank You Frank! Your assistance has been invaluable.
Note also with these plans Frank went so far as to include a stat sheet with the track plan. The word "stat" isn't what I wanted to use but I couldn't think of the correct terminology.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152023.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152023.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152039.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152039.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152058.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152058.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152114.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152114.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I mentioned earlier in the thread I planned to install new carpet. I chose a commercial indoor/outdoor carpet from Lowes. The carpet comes in a 12ft. width and I needed 58 feet of the stuff. I think I paid .63 per linear foot of carpet!
Lowes was good to their word and dropped/delivered the carpet to my abode the next day!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152852.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152852.jpeg)
This roll of carpet weighed I guessing no less than 400+ lbs.
I pulled a slight con and got SBG, Greg DeMayo, over to help me with the carpet. Here, Greg is measuring for a cut. We had to roll it out, measure for the cut, cut it, roll it back up and get it in the man cave! This wasn't as easy as I hoped.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152914.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152914.jpeg)
I purchased two four wheeled appliance dollies from Lowes. After rolling it up we struggled to get it on the dollies and then added 10 years to our youth getting it through the yard, gate, around a Fox Tail Palm, around the pool steps and angled it into the trainroom. Here you see how happy I am to get it this far!
That isn't a smile on my face, it's a look of "What the **** am I doing this for"? Notice I'm also wearing one of Jimmy's finely styled shirts?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152944.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152944.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Okay, fast forward and the carpet is being installed. I just laid it over the old green indoor/outdoor carpet using the green as a pad for the new one. In the next photo you are looking south to the southeast corner of the room.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414154409.jpeg)
I then needed to install the carpet in the little bump out of the room but realized in my haste to get the carpet in I failed to paint the wall. The wall was painted and the new carpet was then placed in the bump out. This view is looking west by northwest.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414154502.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414154524.jpeg)
In order to continue laying the carpet I had to clear all the stuff in front of the roll. This stuff was placed on the new carpet in the bump out area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414154440.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Nice yellow boxes! Sorry I wasn't there to help with moving the carpet. ;D
Jeff
Tom.......
Do I need to remind you that we do this stuff for fun ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
The photo above is very deceiving as the stuff in the photo is but a small fraction of the crap I have in the room. I found myself moving stuff from one part of the room to the other and then back again. Yep, that's me, Bilbo Baggins, there and back again.
The carpet is getting rolled out and I find more wall to be repaired and painted.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414154550.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414154550.jpeg)
I get up to the book cases with the carpet and now I have more moving to do! Both book cases needed to be emptied, moved, carpet rolled out, book cases moved back and then reloaded.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414154647.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414154647.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414154712.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414154712.jpeg)
My guess is that I've moved almost everything in the room at least 5-6 times just to get the walls painted and the carpet down. I only moved the book cases twice.
That's it for now!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on April 06, 2014, 04:01:14 PM
Nice yellow boxes! Sorry I wasn't there to help with moving the carpet. ;D
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
Thanks for stopping by, much appreciated. Yes, the boxes are very nice. The contents are even better. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D All my red boxes are out of view. Greg and I are sorry you weren't here as well. We could have used 6 other forum members for the carpet move.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on April 06, 2014, 04:03:56 PM
Tom.......
Do I need to remind you that we do this stuff for fun ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Bob,
Oh yes, we can say that! Now that it's over I can say that! ;D ;D ;D However, it wasn't fun doing it. :'( :'( :'( :'(
Tom ;D
Tom...
Look on the bright side of having to move stuff repeatedly...... any job worth doing is worth doing twice ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Glad to see that the Ledbetter shelf and it's contents came through all the
shufflin' OK!! ;D ;D ;D
It got a little scary when I realized that DeMayo boy might get close to it! ::) ::) ::)
Quote from: bparrish on April 06, 2014, 04:40:43 PM
Tom...
Look on the bright side of having to move stuff repeatedly...... any job worth doing is worth doing twice ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Or three or four times even!
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on April 06, 2014, 05:03:56 PM
Glad to see that the Ledbetter shelf and it's contents came through all the
shufflin' OK!! ;D ;D ;D
It got a little scary when I realized that DeMayo boy might get close to it! ::) ::) ::)
Gman,
It was a little scary for usins both!
Tom ;D
Enough of my ideas! Your giving me a big head. Your turn, what are you going to do?!!! :) :) :) Inquiring minds want to know. We are all on pins and needles waiting for you to show us what you have in mind. Glad I could be of some help and hope that some of the ideas get incorporated into the new layout. I'll be watching. Now don't spill any paint on that new carpet!!!
Frank / Erieman
Me I'm drooling at all those yellow boxes on the table . Well maybe one day ........ one will make to my workbench
Quote from: Erieman on April 06, 2014, 09:56:57 PM
Enough of my ideas, what are you going to do?!!! :) :) :) We are all on pins and needles waiting for you to show us what you have in mind. glad I culd be of some help and hope that some of the ideas get incorporated into the new layout. I'll be watching. Now don't spill any paint on that new carpet!!! Frank / Erieman
In other words, none of the SBG is allowed a paint-brush in hand! I won't identify specific ones, but you know who they
are!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Just for fun; how many times did you hit your head on the fascia above your workbench?
Hey Gnat, where were you and the Ledbetters when we needed some muscle? ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on April 07, 2014, 08:45:59 AM
Hey Gnat, where were you and the Ledbetters when we needed some muscle? ;D
Me and the Ledbetters all came down with bad case of the 'Saggin' A**'!
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 06, 2014, 03:23:19 PM
I have one more set of concept drawings for the new layout from Frank Baker, Erieman! Frank has been a great source of ideas. With this last set, I told him I had plenty of ideas to draw on.
Thank You Frank! Your assistance has been invaluable.
Note also with these plans Frank went so far as to include a stat sheet with the track plan. The word "stat" isn't what I wanted to use but I couldn't think of the correct terminology.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152023.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152023.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152039.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152039.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152058.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152058.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152114.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060414152114.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Tom
Your Pullman car test has now been added to the Superior & Seattle track testing procedures. It will be called "Tom's AS Pullman Car Test (TAPCT). I was reading your thread last night and realized I hadn't tested the new track with the long Pullman cars. So today we ran the test with 6 - 40' passenger cars and 3 - 85' Pullman cars. I posted a couple pictures on my build thread. I found three areas that need some work in the backup test. Thanks for the help!
David
Did you catch that while you were in Saginaw?
see ya
Bob
Quote from: Erieman on April 06, 2014, 09:56:57 PM
Enough of my ideas! Your giving me a big head. Your turn, what are you going to do?!!! :) :) :) Inquiring minds want to know. We are all on pins and needles waiting for you to show us what you have in mind. Glad I could be of some help and hope that some of the ideas get incorporated into the new layout. I'll be watching. Now don't spill any paint on that new carpet!!!
Frank / Erieman
Ah, come on Frank, you know you love the attention! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D Besides, I'm just giving credit where it is due and wanted to make very sure nobody thought it was coming from me.
I guess I'm dragging it out a little as some decisions have been made while others have not!
I'm sure I'll be the first to spill paint or something else that will leave a lasting stain. I found one of my little dogs sniffing around the wall last night so I told the Babe that the "new man cave" is off limits to the hounds.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Amagic41 on April 06, 2014, 10:10:44 PM
Me I'm drooling at all those yellow boxes on the table . Well maybe one day ........ one will make to my workbench
Ken,
I appreciate you stopping by for a look see. The yellow boxes are nice and I've thinned out the number over the past few years. At one time I had all the yellow boxes but either traded them and have built a few through the years.
Tom ;D
Quote from: John B on April 07, 2014, 08:38:03 AM
Just for fun; how many times did you hit your head on the fascia above your workbench?
John B,
Actually I have that number for you! The total is ten! :( :( Six were just bumps, :( :( three were just bumps with a red mark :-\ :-\ :-\ and one was the one that helped me make the decision to redo the entire layout and workbench area. That one drew blood and pealed some skin back! :'( :'( :'( :'(
I think the distance from the workbench top and the fascia was only 18 inches. Looking back I wonder how I ever got anything built at all.
Tom ;D
John S.,
I'm happy I could help even by accident. I'll wear the TAPCT pin with pride my friend.
I'm off to check your thread after I finish answering the posts here. Then I'll be back to post one little update.
Tom ;D
Okay, for a little of my own track planning now. After pouring over all that Frank did in the track planning, (actually Frank did very little on the track planning - they were all my ideas and he just put them on paper for me) I came up with a brilliant idea.
However, it did come from some of Frank's drawings. Sorry Frank for giving you more credit even though deserved! Anyway, Frank had two helix going one for up and one for down. This did solve the double track issue on the helix and looking again at the drawing below you can see where the helixes (sic) take up the entire bump out space.
In using the double helix theory, I think I would have to have a 3% grade and that is unacceptable for the new layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414140541.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030414140541.jpeg)
My plan is for the helix to be 1.5% grade or less with a 34 inch radius. I came up with the idea of making the entire bump out one oval helix. I now call my helix, the OVALIX! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D Below, I show it in the CAD drawing my good friend Greg DeMayo did for me. Greg has been wonderful in putting these plans in CAD as it lets me know exactly how much room I'll need.
Anyway, I'll have a 36 inch radius for the outside track and the train will pass through a #6 turnout into the ovalix. The distance the train will travel to the next level will be between 24-26 ft. This will give me a grade of around 1%! In the ovalix the train will enter a short portion of straight track thus lessening the pulling or strain on the loco and cars.
The below CAD track plan is for the third or upper level. It's about 98% chipped in stone as far as the track locations are concerned. I have just a little more tweeking to do which I'll share in a few days.
My ovalix is shown below and I'll let ya'll think on it for a few days!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070414192402.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070414192402.jpeg)
Continued in a few days.
Quote from: bparrish on April 07, 2014, 06:20:02 PM
David
Did you catch that while you were in Saginaw?
see ya Bob
Eewww - that's two of 'em today!
How did he ever get approved as a senior officer in the Riff Raff Club? ??? ??? ??? ;D ;D ;D
In Gnat speak.....aw shucks, tweren't nothin' man..... :D
Good Morning Tom,
You have been busy, my friend. Things are progressing nicely. Thank you for all your comments and glad I could be of some help. My doodles were only ideas and I look forward to seeing how the layout develops.
My use of the helix in the corner was as follows: the loop on the left is a return loop. you would have one on the top level and one on the bottom level; while the double loop on the right was to get trains up and down between the next level. Basically, I was trying to create a giant dog bone design to give you even longer run times. As far as the grade, you can change that based on the height of each level. Call me if you have any questions.
Keep up the great work and I look forward to seeing the start of benchwork.
Enough of my ramblings. I need to finish burying the wiring for the night lighting outdoors. The backyard project is almost done. Need to complete it before it gets really hot.
Frank / Erieman
Hi Tom,
nice to see your layout developing...hope to see some benchwork done,soon ;)
Regards,Chris
Quote from: Erieman on April 08, 2014, 11:58:25 AM
Good Morning Tom,
You have been busy, my friend. Things are progressing nicely. Thank you for all your comments and glad I could be of some help. My doodles were only ideas and I look forward to seeing how the layout develops.
My use of the helix in the corner was as follows: the loop on the left is a return loop. you would have one on the top level and one on the bottom level; while the double loop on the right was to get trains up and down between the next level. Basically, I was trying to create a giant dog bone design to give you even longer run times. As far as the grade, you can change that based on the height of each level. Call me if you have any questions.
Keep up the great work and I look forward to seeing the start of benchwork.
Enough of my ramblings. I need to finish burying the wiring for the night lighting outdoors. The backyard project is almost done. Need to complete it before it gets really hot.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thank you for all the help. Your vision is wonderful. I look forward to seeing how you design the double helix.
It was great speaking with you this afternoon, as it always is!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on April 10, 2014, 10:18:30 AM
Hi Tom,
nice to see your layout developing...hope to see some benchwork done,soon ;)
Regards,Chris
Chris,
Thank you and it's great seeing you over here so WELCOME!
I hope to see some benchwork soon myself - I just need to get past the palnning stages.
Tom ;D
Okay, after several months of discussions, reviewing possible layout plans, etc, etc, and more etc, I've decided on how to proceed with my idea of what I want.
The actual track plan is still in the works but here is the ovalix plan. I mentioned I liked very much Frank Baker's idea of a double track helix with one overlapping the other. Frank noted this would give me alot of running time . After some very serious considerations and many sleepless hours I came up with my idea of an oval helix to move the trains and give me additional running time as well.
I settled on a one track ovalix with the idea that a train engineer would have to call the dispatcher to get clearance to enter the ovalix no matter what level his train is on.
I spent many an hour with my other friend, Greg DeMayo, (Yes, I actually have two friends) drawing ovals, etc, etc, and more etc. Greg was able to get into my head and put into CAD (cranial attitude dysfunction) Frank's and my ideas.
I wanted to be able to enter the ovalix from one direction only on Level 1, going up and Level 3 going down. To do this the track plan required the use of two reverse loops on each level as well. This would allow the engineer to reverse his train in order to enter the Level 1 (staging level) ovalix from the SW corner of the ovalix. For your reference, in the two photos below the train would be entering the oval from the left side.
The following two CAD drawings show the Benchwork Dimensions and the Track Centerline Dimensions for Level 1.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514143852.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514151003.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
This is gonna be fun to figure out. I used to lose track of my train on your old layout. :o ;D
The train leaves Level 1 and can get off at Level 2 or continue on to Level 3.
If the train exits at level 2, it would enter the turnout on the left side of the diagram and use the crossover at the bottom and out onto level 2. Once the train enters level 2 you have three options. One is the train can continue to lap around the walls in this direction by using the 36" radius behind the ovalix to go from South to North. The second option for train movement is to exit the ovalix at level 2 and continue out onto the layout using the crossover and then go North(Right) to the 200"R area. In this direction the train can reenter the ovlaix and continue up. The third option is to reverse the train by using the reverse loop, use the bottom crossover to enter the ovalix and go back down.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514152920.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Bob,
Thanks for checking in, the SBG will be test engineers on the A&S! No pressure or anything like that!
Tom ;D
Now that we are all very clear on the level 2 options, the train arrives at the top of the ovalix and out onto Level 3. This level is essentially the reverse of level 1 in that you enter the layout going in one direction. You can use the reverse loops to change directions to lengthen your running time, same as on level 2. However; you will have to reverse your train and reenter the ovalix in the opposite direction to go down. There is no crossover on Levels 1&3.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514152945.jpeg)
Continued in a few minutes.
Gregory was kind enough to add two additional drawings.
One is of the cross section of the ovalix area and the other is the cross section of the benchwork at each level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514153030.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514153030.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514153048.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514153048.jpeg)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 01, 2014, 04:07:45 PM
Craig was kind enough to add two additional drawings.
One is of the cross section of the ovalix area and the other is the cross section of the benchwork at each level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514153030.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514153030.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514153048.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514153048.jpeg)
Tom ;D
Who is Craig and why is he getting credit for the drawings?
On second thought, maybe giving him credit is good. Think about it, he gets all the blame when things start running amouk when all the guys are over there running trains!
Good idea - Great Plans Craig..... ;D
Okay, I couldn't resist! Since you spelled dimension with an "i" instead of an "e" in the first two diagrams, I figured I'd misspell Greg! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) Sorry Butty, alls fair in railroading. Just ask Uncle Gman from Arkansas!
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 01, 2014, 05:18:45 PM
Okay, I couldn't resist! Since you spelled dimension with an "i" instead of an "e" in the first two diagrams, I figured I'd misspell Greg! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) Sorry Butty, alls fair in railroading. Just ask Uncle Gman from Arkansas!
Tom ;D
Hey, I just couldn't resist having a little fun at your expense. ;D ;D ;D
If I didn't have Pegi here to proof my reports, I'd have a big problem with some of my clients! It gets gruesome sometimes.....
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 01, 2014, 05:24:22 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 01, 2014, 05:18:45 PM
Okay, I couldn't resist! Since you spelled dimension with an "i" instead of an "e" in the first two diagrams, I figured I'd misspell Greg! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) Sorry Butty, alls fair in railroading. Just ask Uncle Gman from Arkansas!
Tom ;D
Hey, I just couldn't resist having a little fun at your expense. ;D ;D ;D
If I didn't have Pegi here to proof my reports, I'd have a big problem with some of my clients! It gets gruesome sometimes.....
Greg,
To be honest, I just had an all to often senior moment. :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[
Tom :D
Now, this is a confuzzin' passel of shtuff for us normal folks! ;D ;D
The Ledbetters and Candy are readin' and re-readin' it, but it may take
a few months (or years in redhead time) to sink in!
However, I still nominate Candy for the first engineer to take a train
around the 'ovalhicks'! ::) ::) ::)
We'll all be waitin' for 'film at eleven'! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Meanwhile, Jaime is lookin' for the right 'Thinkin' Hat'!
Myself - I'm prepared!
Gman,
Thanks for stopping by and getting confused. Speaking of Candy, I haven't seen much of her over here.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 01, 2014, 05:38:43 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 01, 2014, 05:24:22 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 01, 2014, 05:18:45 PM
Okay, I couldn't resist! Since you spelled dimension with an "i" instead of an "e" in the first two diagrams, I figured I'd misspell Greg! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) Sorry Butty, alls fair in railroading. Just ask Uncle Gman from Arkansas!
Tom ;D
Hey, I just couldn't resist having a little fun at your expense. ;D ;D ;D
If I didn't have Pegi here to proof my reports, I'd have a big problem with some of my clients! It gets gruesome sometimes.....
Greg,
To be honest, I just had an all to often senior moment. :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[ :-[
Tom :D
I'm glad to hear I'm not the only one, besides at least your senior moments are funny!
Miss placing a letter here and there is just part of the hobby - just like spending all that time looking for your tools. Time to go back in the layout room and look for my dremel.
Quote from: S&S RR on May 02, 2014, 09:22:30 AM
Miss placing a letter here and there is just part of the hobby - just like spending all that time looking for your tools. Time to go back in the layout room and look for my dremel.
That's why I have three dremels and a half a dozen or so X-Acto's. It makes it easier to find one when I need it. :D
I'm still in awe over this ovalix design. It's got loads of potential. I'm sure glad I don't have to wire it.
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 02, 2014, 07:46:03 AM
Gman,
Thanks for stopping by and getting confused. Speaking of Candy, I haven't seen much of her over here.
Tom ;D
No problem in gettin' me confuzzed! ;D ;D ;D
I think that Candy is just lurkin' out there tryin' to either 1.) act shy and bashful! or 2.) act like she completely
understands how to navigate the ovalhicks !
Ya have to wonder what the girl with the silver cup is all about.
Did she get the cup for successfully staging the train wreck? or......... did she win the prize for being the sole person to walk away? or ............. did she simply straggle up onto the track after last night's weird dress contest at the local grange hall?
No wait ! ! ! ! ! She's granny Frickert............. on the maternal side of the Ledbetters............
Staggers the imagination.
see ya
Bob
Quote from: bparrish on May 02, 2014, 02:21:04 PM
Ya have to wonder what the girl with the silver cup is all about.
Did she get the cup for successfully staging the train wreck? or......... did she win the prize for being the sole person to walk away? or ............. did she simply straggle up onto the track after last night's weird dress contest at the local grange hall?
No wait ! ! ! ! ! She's granny Frickert............. on the maternal side of the Ledbetters............
Staggers the imagination.
see ya
Bob
Bob,
I don't know the reason why but I think the girl was photoshoped into the train wreck. If you look closely at her right foot, she is not standing on the tie - she is standing above it!
Tom ;D
Oh, chit!!! I just timed out and lost my post! >:( >:( >:(
Don't sweat the small shtuff! The picture is just Candy with her trophy for bein'
the first one to make a run at the ovalhicks, albeit with p*&& poor results!
The floatin' foot is because this photo was taken around 'beer thirty'! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Candy - this thread has proven to be your time in the barrel!
Ain't model railroaders wunnerful, sensitive friends? :-* :-* :-*
Particularly ones like li'l Tommy that lets us'ns have fun on his seruss thread! (BIG APPLAUSE SMILEY!)
Okay, let's get back to the serious stuff. Tom, you and Greg have been quite busy with the design of the helix. Impressive for sure. I have to keep looking at it to see the traffic patterns. and then there is the electrical. WOW, are you going to need a lot of auto reversers!!! I like what I see so far.
Sorry for the delay in responding. Now that the temperatures are getting up there, I have spent the past three days cleaning, replacing components on two evaporative coolers, swamp coolers too many of you. They do a wonderful job and are very cost effective.
Tom, you certainly have thought it out and now comes the really hard part, the build. I look forward to seeing your ideas come to fruition. This is going to be one impressive corner.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: S&S RR on May 02, 2014, 09:22:30 AM
Miss placing a letter here and there is just part of the hobby - just like spending all that time looking for your tools. Time to go back in the layout room and look for my dremel.
John,
Missing a letter here or there is just like me missing a tool here and there. Sometimes it doesn't matter if I have 5 or 10 of the same thing, I seem to look for it one time or the other. It can be right in front of me and I don't see it.
My Mother told me one time, "Look slowly, you look but you don't see. See what you are looking for". When I do this, I always find my tools. Thanks MOM!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on May 04, 2014, 11:42:06 AM
Okay, let's get back to the serious stuff. Tom, you and Greg have been quite busy with the design of the helix. Impressive for sure. I have to keep looking at it to see the traffic patterns. and then there is the electrical. WOW, are you going to need a lot of auto reversers!!! I like what I see so far.
Sorry for the delay in responding. Now that the temperatures are getting up there, I have spent the past three days cleaning, replacing components on two evaporative coolers, swamp coolers too many of you. They do a wonderful job and are very cost effective.
Tom, you certainly have thought it out and now comes the really hard part, the build. I look forward to seeing your ideas come to fruition. This is going to be one impressive corner.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by and posting your thoughts, much appreciated. You, Greg and I have all really put much consideration and time into the plans. The help you and Greg have given me has been invaluable and I learned alot. Thank you again!
The wiring will be a challenge but not impossible and thank God for auto reversers. As far as the actual build it will certainly be a challenge as well but again, not impossible. Quite honestly, I have been very diciplined in following the Principle of the Six P's - Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance!
Construction started this morning.
I'll be adding a little more in a few minutes.
Prior to building the base for the lower portion of the ovalix, I wanted to have a pattern to use on the other levels.
The first thing I did was to lay the plywood on the floor and fill the bump out area. Sorry I forgot to photo this step.
After doing this I found that my walls were not exactly square. The NW corner of the bump out was about 1/4" off and the SW corner was a little less than 1/2" off. This isn't going to affect the ovalix as it will be centered in the bump out. It does however, affect how flush the plywood fits to the corners.
I purchased several cardboard squares from Sam Flax and placed them over/on top of the plywood while fitting them to the walls.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040514140219.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040514140236.jpeg)
After totally covering the plywood, I checked the cardboard for alignment and then taped them in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040514140253.jpeg)
Once satisfied with the cardboard in relation to the walls, I began to think in terms of applying Gregs dimentions to the cardboard. For your convenience, I've attached the Benchwork Dimentions below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010514143852.jpeg)
Following the dimentions, I marked off the centerlines and drew in the 31 3/4" radius This is the intermost black circle as shown above. The dark line represents the inside edge of the ovalix. This is the black line shown on the cardboard in the photo below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040514140313.jpeg)
I hope to have the track centerlines drawn on the cardboard within the week.
Hey Tom, seeing that the ovalix is surrounded by three walls are you going to be able to get inside of it incase of trouble?
8)
Quote from: ak-milw on May 04, 2014, 07:17:37 PM
Hey Tom, seeing that the ovalix is surrounded by three walls are you going to be able to get inside of it incase of trouble?
8)
Andy,
Yes, the lower level/Level 1 will be 30" above the floor. I'll be able to get in from the front and clean track or fix any problems if necessary.
Tom ;D
I got a lot of work done this afternoon on the ovalix. I drew in the outer circle of the ovalix onto the cardboard.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090514165655.jpeg)
The width between the two black lines is 4 1/2". This gives me a solid 3" on center which allows 3/4" wide ovalix supports on each edge. Cutting on the inner black line I removed the belly of the beast as seen below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090514165721.jpeg)
I then used a black marker to mark this inner line onto the plywood. Also at each area where the cardboard fits together, I marked the pattern with A-A, B-B and so on in the event the cardboard comes apart. Using the A-A I can tape it back in the correct location. This oval shaped cardboard section will serve as a pattern for cutting multiple bases for the ovalix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090514165741.jpeg)
Continued in an hour or so.
In the following picture you can see the inner ovalix pattern has been cut out and is folded in the belly of the beast.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090514165758.jpeg)
The lines were marked on the plywood. I'm now ready to cut the plywood.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090514165816.jpeg)
Fast forward and you see that I cut the ovalix pattern out and is on the inside of the plywood. You can see I'll have plenty of room on the inside of the ovalix to be able to clean track or make any repairs/adjustments as needed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090514165834.jpeg)
I'll next start building the benchwork for the decking of the lower level and ovalix base.
Atta Boy Tom !!!
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 09, 2014, 06:28:38 PM
Atta Boy Tom !!!
Gregory, Without your Cranial Attitude Dysfunctional (CAD) drawings I couldn't have pulled it off. Or should I say "cut it out"! Thanks brother. Chomping at the bit Tom
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 09, 2014, 06:33:27 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 09, 2014, 06:28:38 PM
Atta Boy Tom !!!
Gregory,
Without your Cranial Attitude Dysfunctional (CAD) drawings I couldn't have pulled it off. Or should I say "cut it out"!
Thanks brother.
Chomping at the bit Tom
Hey Chomping.....not to worry, I've been having tons of fun helping, except maybe not so much with the carpet, that was to much like real work!
I NEVER want to see any rolled carpet again, never!
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 09, 2014, 06:43:58 PM
I NEVER want to see any rolled carpet again, never!
Roger.....
Woo-hoo! We have construction!
Bob,
Yes, finally it has begun!
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 10, 2014, 02:40:56 PM
Bob,
Yes, finally it has begun!
Tom ;D
No pressure Tom, but remember.....
God Almighty built the entire earth, in seven, yes seven days.
And with no Diet Pepsi break, either. 8)
[size=78%] [/size]
Good to see that construction has begun!
Heck, I ain't seen no real construction yet - just another one of them old Floridy folks re-livin'
their childhood by sittin' on the floor drawin' pitures and spreadin' out jigsaw puzzle pieces!
Candy and Ralphie ain't the only ones I kinda like and harass unmercilessly!!
To put it correctly, 'ol'e chubby Tommy' is right up there on my favorites list and ain't gonna get
no slack from me!!!
Buck Up - I ain't goin' away anytime soon!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on May 10, 2014, 07:10:35 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 10, 2014, 02:40:56 PM
Bob,
Yes, finally it has begun!
Tom ;D
No pressure Tom, but remember.....
God Almighty built the entire earth, in seven, yes seven days.
And with no Diet Pepsi break, either. 8)
Hmmm, no Diet Pepsi during the seven day build? He certainly is a far better Man than I! It will take me more than seven days to even consider not drinking a Diet Pepsi during a work session.
Thanks for checking in on the build.
Quote from: S&S RR on May 10, 2014, 08:51:58 PM
Good to see that construction has begun!
John,
Yes, finally! I'll post some pictures soon.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on May 10, 2014, 09:56:09 PM
Heck, I ain't seen no real construction yet - just another one of them old Floridy folks re-livin'
their childhood by sittin' on the floor drawin' pitures and spreadin' out jigsaw puzzle pieces!
Candy and Ralphie ain't the only ones I kinda like and harass unmercilessly!!
To put it correctly, 'ol'e chubby Tommy' is right up there on my favorites list and ain't gonna get
no slack from me!!!
Buck Up - I ain't goin' away anytime soon!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Good to see you my friend. I would be very hurt if you didn't harrass me for something. I'm happy you liked my jigsaw puzzle. It's coming along slowly.
Until next time.
Tom ;D
Okay, I guess "next time" is here.
I realized a small problem with my layout height. I mentioned the lower level was going to start at 30", the middle level would be 40" and the top level would be at 58". I have what I refer to as a reverse lighting valance in the room. My valance is open at the top meaning the lights aren't hidden behind the valance and shine down. My valance allows the light to reflect off the ceiling and this gives me more of an even lighting effect and some would refer to this a ambient light. The bottom of the valance is 72" from the floor. So, if the top level is at 58" this only gives me 14" of play room for my upper level structures. Some of my structures are higher than 14".
To resolve this issue I simple dropped everything 4". My new staging/lower level is now at 26" off the floor. This still gives me room to store stuff under the layout and room to gain access to the ovalix. Problem solved.
Last Saturday was the day I decided to start building the ovalix. In the photo below you can see the blue chalk line at 30" and my new line at 26"!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160514191620.jpeg)
My supervisors, AKA: Government Workers, thought it would be good to have a photo of the hard worker starting the build. Harder worker is in the next photo.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160514191638.jpeg)
Above you see me hard at work predrilling holes in the 2x2's to be bolted to the walls. The next photo shows the two "non hardworkers" watching the A&S President hard at work! On the left is the Judge and on the right is Greg DeMayo. You see how hard they are working. And yes, I have a cordless drill but the one I'm using is a hammer drill and is faster for drilling the tapcon holes through the drywall and cinder blocks.
You can also see my lighting valance in the background.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160514191654.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Fast forward and you can see I've started the benchwork for the ovalix area. It appears to be overkill but it isn't. I'll explain this issue in a post tomorrow.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160514191712.jpeg)
The Judge was feeling bad for not working so he wanted me to show him doing something productive. Hear he is holding a piece of track in place. It sure looks like work to me! How bout ya'll?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160514191733.jpeg)
Finally the supervisors left and I was able to really get something done. I thought I would show you two different ways to attach the plywood sections together. One method is to cut a splice and glue it under the two sections. In the photo below I've applied glue to one side and clamped it to the underside of one of the sections.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160514191754.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160514191810.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The other method I'm using is more stable, at least for the section of the ovalix that holds the runaround/passing track. I screwed a 1x4 brace to the 2x2 which is bolted/tapcon to the wall. I added a 2x2 to the other end of the 1x4.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160514191832.jpeg)
I then test fitted the lower level base to the benchwork. You can see the right edge of the plywood fits flush to the edge of the 1x4 brace.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160514191858.jpeg)
I then screwed a piece of 1x4 to the right side of the existing 1x4!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160514191915.jpeg)
The right base section will sit on this 1x4 and flush to the section on the left and this gives me a solid base for the plywood.
The next photo shows the ovalix portion/section on the 1x4 brace.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160514191931.jpeg)
Continued tomorrow evening.
Tom
Congratulations - looks like real construction to me. I will be watching your progress.
You're making some great progress Tom. Thanks for all of the pictures. Carry on!
There's no need to get insulting, calling me a government worker. :o
If I was a bureaucrat, the ovalix drawings wouldn't be complete for another 8 months and they would be all screwed up. ;)
Wow, it is good to see progress. Enough of all this drawing poop, lets see wood, lots of it. Keep up the great work my friend, I'll be watching from afar. Need to get moving on my station build among other things.
Enjoy your weekend. for me that's everyday!
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: S&S RR on May 17, 2014, 08:03:43 PM
Tom
Congratulations - looks like real construction to me. I will be watching your progress.
John,
Thanks, much appreciated. I'm finally getting somewhere.
Tom ;D
Quote from: MAP on May 18, 2014, 05:28:20 AM
You're making some great progress Tom. Thanks for all of the pictures. Carry on!
Mark,
Thanks for stopping by to check in, much appreciated. I'll be posting more photos, lots of them in the coming weeks.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 18, 2014, 09:42:35 AM
There's no need to get insulting, calling me a government worker. :o
If I was a bureaucrat, the ovalix drawings wouldn't be complete for another 8 months and they would be all screwed up. ;)
Certainly you know I was just kidding! This ovalix wouldn't be looking like this without your unselfish and tireless work on the CAD drawings you've done for me. I do appreciate it very much! Have I groveled enough?
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on May 18, 2014, 12:41:55 PM
Wow, it is good to see progress. Enough of all this drawing poop, lets see wood, lots of it. Keep up the great work my friend, I'll be watching from afar. Need to get moving on my station build among other things.
Enjoy your weekend. for me that's everyday!
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Getting started was a little slow but now I'm on a roll. Thanks to you and Greg. Sorry, but I have a little more of the drawing poop to post.
I planted two Pigmy Palms and some other stuff for the Babe this morning and my back is telling me just how old I am! Hopefully I'll get some layout work done this afternoon but if not I'll do the drawing poop and get that out of the way!
Thank for watching from afar.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 18, 2014, 02:01:17 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 18, 2014, 09:42:35 AM
There's no need to get insulting, calling me a government worker. :o
If I was a bureaucrat, the ovalix drawings wouldn't be complete for another 8 months and they would be all screwed up. ;)
Certainly you know I was just kidding! This ovalix wouldn't be looking like this without your unselfish and tireless work on the CAD drawings you've done for me. I do appreciate it very much! Have I groveled enough?
Tom ;D
It sounds like he may need your help again in the near future Greg after that rebuttal. ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on May 18, 2014, 02:34:48 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 18, 2014, 02:01:17 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 18, 2014, 09:42:35 AM
There's no need to get insulting, calling me a government worker. :o
If I was a bureaucrat, the ovalix drawings wouldn't be complete for another 8 months and they would be all screwed up. ;)
Certainly you know I was just kidding! This ovalix wouldn't be looking like this without your unselfish and tireless work on the CAD drawings you've done for me. I do appreciate it very much! Have I groveled enough?
Tom ;D
It sounds like he may need your help again in the near future Greg after that rebuttal. ;D
Oh dang, is the word out already! Is my genuflecting that obvious?
Tom ;D
I guess we are all tired of drawings by now but I need to show a couple more. Building a helix/ovalix is complicated to say the least. I don't care what anyone says. There is a lot of preparation in doing it correctly. One can't just willy nilly build one. Without Greg's assistance, this wouldn't be possible. I would have just willy nilled the project.
Remember, Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance.
I mentioned yesterday that I have the benchwork bracing 12" on center. I mentioned to Greg that I wanted to go up 3" per ovalix loop. We picked out a spot on the track plan and made this ground zero. To get back to this spot or actually 3" above this "O" is 24 ft. Thus, the ovalix raises 1/8" every 12 inches. This gives me a very steep incline of 1.2! Only kidding about the grade. Refer to the two CAD drawings Greg did for the ovalix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180514162018.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180514162036.jpeg)
Following the 1/8" rise per foot with the 12" on center bracing will be easy peasy. I started the benchwork around the three walls first so I wouldn't have to crawl under the ovalix until the very last portion of the construction. And remember this base benchwork has to support nine loops on the ovalix and the two top levels. There are three loops from staging to the second and six from level 2 to level 3.
In the two photos below you can see where I've added the right side of the ovalix and base to the benchwork. I'm about ten days from laying track on the ovalix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180514162110.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180514162127.jpeg)
Thanks for following along.
Chomping at the bit Tom ;D
Mr. Tom, It is great to see wood in that corner of the room again. It looks like it is coming along great so far. Hang in there.
1.5% grade?
Child's play for coal haulers. Use pushers. Adds interest to Operations.
Quote from: BandOGuy on May 18, 2014, 08:13:38 PM
1.5% grade?
Child's play for coal haulers. Use pushers. Adds interest to Operations.
That'll be Greg's job. He runs into the back of trains when you not looking anyway. ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on May 18, 2014, 02:34:48 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 18, 2014, 02:01:17 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 18, 2014, 09:42:35 AM
There's no need to get insulting, calling me a government worker. :o
If I was a bureaucrat, the ovalix drawings wouldn't be complete for another 8 months and they would be all screwed up. ;)
Certainly you know I was just kidding! This ovalix wouldn't be looking like this without your unselfish and tireless work on the CAD drawings you've done for me. I do appreciate it very much! Have I groveled enough?
Tom ;D
It sounds like he may need your help again in the near future Greg after that rebuttal. ;D
Well Bill, I think a certain amount of contrition is warranted. Maybe over lunch a free lunch at Smokey Bones?
I mean it wouldn't have been so bad if he had compared me to a bottom feeding lawyer, but bureaucrats, oh the inhumanity! ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 18, 2014, 02:01:17 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 18, 2014, 09:42:35 AM
There's no need to get insulting, calling me a government worker. :o
If I was a bureaucrat, the ovalix drawings wouldn't be complete for another 8 months and they would be all screwed up. ;)
Certainly you know I was just kidding! This ovalix wouldn't be looking like this without your unselfish and tireless work on the CAD drawings you've done for me. I do appreciate it very much! Have I groveled enough?
Tom ;D
Good start, I'll think about the requisite amount of groveling and get back to you! :)
Quote from: ReadingBob on May 19, 2014, 08:01:49 AM
That'll be Greg's job. He runs into the back of trains when you not looking anyway. ;D ;D ;D
Jeeze Bob, do you have to blab about all my minor faux pauxs !!! :-[
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on May 18, 2014, 05:39:05 PM
Mr. Tom, It is great to see wood in that corner of the room again. It looks like it is coming along great so far. Hang in there.
Bill,
Thanks for stopping by and checking in, much appreciated. I can't wait to get the track in!
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on May 18, 2014, 08:13:38 PM
1.5% grade?
Child's play for coal haulers. Use pushers. Adds interest to Operations.
Hey, I appreciate you following along on the adventure. My grade will only be 1.2% but a helper for the long coal train behind the Challenger will look good!
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 19, 2014, 08:21:37 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 18, 2014, 02:01:17 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 18, 2014, 09:42:35 AM
There's no need to get insulting, calling me a government worker. :o
If I was a bureaucrat, the ovalix drawings wouldn't be complete for another 8 months and they would be all screwed up. ;)
Certainly you know I was just kidding! This ovalix wouldn't be looking like this without your unselfish and tireless work on the CAD drawings you've done for me. I do appreciate it very much! Have I groveled enough?
Tom ;D
Good start, I'll think about the requisite amount of groveling and get back to you! :)
Your groveling check is in the mail along with the one I sent Pegi three years ago! Not sure why it hasn't arrived!
Tom ;D
It's the federal government Tom!
Well, I got the benchwrok finished for the ovalix! It's amazing what one man can do when he has the time to work without interuptions. The area where the ovalix is located is 7X10. The first photo is of the benchwork base.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230514182935.jpeg)
This next photo is of the lower level benchwork with the first loop of the ovalix in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230514182954.jpeg)
The next two photos are of the Micro Mark Digital Level and Grade Gauge Meter. I was resetting it back to Relative Zero and then the 1.25 grade and the actual grade I'll have of 1.10.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230514183033.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230514183012.jpeg)
Stopped by to see if you had been busy! Looks like you have - looks great! You will have trains running in no time.
Quote from: S&S RR on May 23, 2014, 08:05:15 PM
Stopped by to see if you had been busy! Looks like you have - looks great! You will have trains running in no time.
John,
Thanks for stopping by! I'm at least getting close to getting trains running on the ovalix.
Tom ;D
Yipee, there be assembled wood in the shed! 8)
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 24, 2014, 08:55:18 AM
Yipee, there be assembled wood in the shed! 8)
Yes, there is assembled wood in the shed and plenty of unassembled wood in the shed as well! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
I got more done (along with the help of the Judge) on the ovalix today! I got the buss wires in place and secured the base to the benchwork and glued the first loop of the ovalix together. Here are more boring photos of todays work.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240514155616.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240514155601.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240514155632.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240514155648.jpeg)
Tom ;D
Looking good Tom. Progress!!! ;D. Probably a little less chomping going on now.
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on May 24, 2014, 04:35:38 PM
Looking good Tom. Progress!!! ;D . Probably a little less chomping going on now.
Thanks Pennsy,
Appreciate you stopping by! I'm still chomping to get some track down and test it! Maybe in the next few days!
Tom ;D
Very nice Tom. That's some solid progress on the "heart" of the new layout
John
Oh my, that photo looks like a drawing I once saw! :) ;) ;D
Quote from: Cuse on May 24, 2014, 11:26:56 PM
Very nice Tom. That's some solid progress on the "heart" of the new layout
John
John,
Thanks for checking in on the progress. The heart of the layout has to be perfect for the rest of the layout to run flawlessly! I'm keeping my fingers and all tools crossed for the process.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 25, 2014, 08:29:19 AM
Oh my, that photo looks like a drawing I once saw! :) ;) ;D
Greg,
I think we've seen enough of these drawings to last us a lifetime. Da'Judge and I were commenting yesterday during the work session that none of this would be possible without your CAD drawings! And who knew, just five years ago you only wanted to know how to paint a small diesel!
Tom ;D
HOLY COW, You are making a lot of progress on the railroad. boy, am I looking forward to following along. This is going to be a big project but lots of fun. Keep up the wonderful work and remember to keep posting progress pictures.
Frank / Erieman
Boy, you've been makin' a lot of sawdust lately!
If you were a really nice guy, you'd package it up and send it to Doug for bedding for his rat! ;D ;D ;D
Sawdust is also useful in lieu of talcum powder on wet cats. ::)
Quote from: BandOGuy on May 25, 2014, 02:23:16 PM
Sawdust is also useful in lieu of talcum powder on wet cats. ::)
Guess whose car seats he's gonna wallow around on! ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: Erieman on May 25, 2014, 10:58:09 AM
HOLY COW, You are making a lot of progress on the railroad. boy, am I looking forward to following along. This is going to be a big project but lots of fun. Keep up the wonderful work and remember to keep posting progress pictures.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thank you for following along on the adventure. Building the ovalix is a daunting task but as you say will be lots of fun. I have more photos of the progress to share later after I answer these posts.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on May 25, 2014, 01:55:08 PM
Boy, you've been makin' a lot of sawdust lately!
If you were a really nice guy, you'd package it up and send it to Doug for bedding for his rat! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, lots of sawdust - it's in my hair, eyes, pockets and a few other places. 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) I think Doug has plenty of his own laser cut sawdust. I guess this mjeans I'm not a nice guy!
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on May 25, 2014, 02:23:16 PM
Sawdust is also useful in lieu of talcum powder on wet cats. ::)
I thought the sawdust was used to stuff the cat! You know, dry it from the inside out!
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 26, 2014, 04:48:20 PM
Quote from: BandOGuy on May 25, 2014, 02:23:16 PM
Sawdust is also useful in lieu of talcum powder on wet cats. ::)
I thought the sawdust was used to stuff the cat! You know, dry it from the inside out!
Tom ;D
:) :) :) :) :) :) !
Today I got much more completed on the ovalix area. I did get the runaround track down along with the turn outs. For your convenience, here is the track plan for the lower level or bottom of the ovalix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514170040.jpeg)
And here is the track in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514164956.jpeg)
I guess I should give you a cleaner version so the track can be seen more easily.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514165138.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Continuing -
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514165105.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514165030.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514165122.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The photo below is one I just showed but I want you to see it here without having to go back up to look. You can see on the left side of the photo and coming off the top turnout the track that will become the swing leg of the ovalix. This track enters the ovalix base and begins to climb at about half way in the first quarter of the circle.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514165030.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514165030.jpeg)
As I mentioned earlier in the thread the rise is 1/8" for every 12"/1ft. in length. This is a rise of 1.20% which is very subtle and perfect for steam engines on the ovalix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514172025.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514172025.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514172042.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514172042.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Tom...
Good start..............
You had me nervous for a while when you tore out all the old stuff......... I wasn't sure how much down time you were going to claim before you started again.
Very cool
Bob
It goes without saying that the first leg of the helix/ovalix is extremely important. It is critical that the first loop is correctly built and level. If you make a mistake it won't show up in the first loop. However; as you go higher, your mistakes will become more obvious. The ovalix pad (the part the track sits on), really called roadbed, must be absolutely level from side to side. If not, you will notice your helix/ovalix cantering to the inside or outside whatever the case may be.
Now is the time for all good railroad modelers to be patient and diligent in this task. Note the level on my ovalix roadbed!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514165218.jpeg)
The roadbed is level and in the photo below you can see this equates to level track on the roadbed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514165200.jpeg)
1.20% incline/grade - easy peasy!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260514165239.jpeg)
Thanks for following along and as always comments are always welcome, even critical ones.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on May 26, 2014, 05:37:21 PM
Tom...
Good start..............
You had me nervous for a while when you tore out all the old stuff......... I wasn't sure how much down time you were going to claim before you started again.
Very cool
Bob
Bob,
Thanks for checking in, much appreciated. I was down about 6 months which actually had me a bit nervous. I'm on a good schedule now and it will be fun to build the three levels along with the ovalix in the middle.
I'm very happy your are doing well! Prayers have been answered and they will continue for sure.
Tom ;D
Tom,
Looks like no grass is growing under your feet. You are progressing like a man possessed. I forgot, you are possessed / with Railroad fever. and track! I assume that is only for reference and that cork or some other sub strait will be forth coming. Looking great. I can't get over the speed of you build. You are the man! Keep up the good work because I'll be watching.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: Erieman on May 26, 2014, 10:40:00 PM
Tom,
Looks like no grass is growing under your feet. You are progressing like a man possessed. I forgot, you are possessed / with Railroad fever. and track! I assume that is only for reference and that cork or some other sub strait will be forth coming. Looking great. I can't get over the speed of you build. You are the man! Keep up the good work because I'll be watching.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for checking in. Two long weekends sure help in getting stuff done. Well, that and no "Honey do" list! I don't plan on having any roadbed or cork on the lower level or ovalix. The ovalix is just going to get trains from here to there. Using cork as a roadbed adds the thickness of the cork in height to each loop. Due to my lighting valance on the walls I need to make sure I have room for structures on the top level without interference from the valance.
Tom ;D
Boy, is Bill going to be happy.....now he can run a train around & around & around & around & around & around & around & around.....just getting dizzy thinking about it! ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 27, 2014, 10:49:38 AM
Boy, is Bill going to be happy.....now he can run a train around & around & around & around & around & around & around & around.....just getting dizzy thinking about it! ;D
Greg,
Yes, Bill will be happy to be running a train, when he gets around to it!
Tom ;D
Greg and I mentioned that Bill would be happy to be running trains once again. Well, he was very happy to be running them around and around mainly cause that's all he can do at this time. We used Bill's Degitrax Zephyr to test the track and ovalix instead of the Super Chief. The Super Chief Digitrax Command Station will be used as I get further along in the construcion phase of the layout. Here is Judge Bill Eaton at the throttle.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514161754.jpeg)
One of the things I did the past few days was to add some horizontal bracing and removing some of the vertical support posts. The next three photos show where I added the horizontal bracing and removed the posts. This gives me a little more room for storage.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514161657.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514161714.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514161732.jpeg)
You can also see in the three photos above that I've got the first loop of the ovalix complete.
Continued in a few.
Great progress......
So what is the next step on the Plywood Jct RR ??? ?
see ya
Bob
This morning was spent adding a portion of the second loop to the ovalix. As mentioned in a previous post, the first level rises to a height of 3" at the zero point on the bottom of the loop to that same point just above it. I used 1X2's cut 3" to support the remaining loops. This gives me a very consistant grade from here on.
The next two photos show the 3" blocks in position. These blocks are located above the bottom loop support braces for stability.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514161813.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514161813.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514161856.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514161856.jpeg)
Quote from: bparrish on May 30, 2014, 04:41:56 PM
Great progress......
So what is the next step on the Plywood Jct RR ??? ?
see ya
Bob
Bob,
This portion of the plywood junction will be to complete the three levels of the ovalix. Once that is complete and operating smoothly I'll start the rest of the layout. It's critical to get this portion installed and operational.
Thanks for checking in on the build.
Tom ;D
I glued the second level loop piece to the end of the first loop section and laid the section on top of the 3" white 1X2's. The two sections are where you see the Quick Grips in the left of the photo.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514161925.jpeg)
The second section loop will be glued and screwed as I move up the ovalix. The 3" supports need to dry prior to securing the loop section. In the photos above and below, note the section is just resting on the supports. You can get the idea of the ovalix moving up from here.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514162040.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I used the MTH Challenger to test the ovalix clearance. The Challenger starts in front of the ovalix, runs around the back, enters the oval from the left and up the incline. You can see at 3" I have plenty of room between the levels of the ovalix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514162058.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514162120.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300514162152.jpeg)
This morning the Judge and I tested the runaround track and the short section of the ovalix. We used an E6A diesel, a 4-6-2 and 4-8-4 brass loco and a GP-9 with a consist of about 18 cars. We went forward and backwards, reversed direction and repeated the process with each loco. We only experienced one derail and it was the R1 class4-8-4 brass loco. It wasn't the track but the loco. It is an early version of Overland Models brass. It only derailed that one time.
Tom ;D
Looking good Mr. Tom :D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on May 30, 2014, 05:23:48 PM
Looking good Mr. Tom :D
Bill,
Thanks very much, I appreciate you followiong along.
Tom ;D
Oh ............ now it's getting really cool.............
Big Steam ! ! ! ! !
Thanx
Bob
Exciting developments!!
Looks great...one question, no homasote or cork?
Hope to inspect soon...John
Quote from: Cuse on May 30, 2014, 09:24:08 PM
Exciting developments!!
Looks great...one question, no homasote or cork?
Hope to inspect soon...John
He just wants to hear the rumble to be sure it didn't fall off the oval-hicks!
His pitures reveal some interestin' facts though -the Judge is the smart one
of the bunch! He commandeered the big comfy chair!! 8) 8) 8)
When you do your inspection, you have my proxy to make the in-appropriate
comments on my behalf that I would! ;D ;D ;D ;D
I'm glad Bill is happy, he has been a bit surly since he hasn't been able to run trains around & around & around & around & around.
Is it me or is there some pattern here?
Nice looking "ovalix" Tom.
That is really impressive. You're off to a great start! I can't wait to see what this is going to lead to. :D
Tom, everything is looking great! I love the Ovalix design...very innovative. I'll be following your impressive progress closely!
Hi,
Tom,you made very ggod progress and I´m happy to see some benchwork done.Your Ovalix looks great...It´s fine to see the construction step by step....I think it´s relative easy to get a steady grade of 1.2% up the Ovalix with those 3"...
Keep up the great progress...
Regars,Chris
Quote from: Cuse on May 30, 2014, 09:24:08 PM
Exciting developments!!
Looks great...one question, no homasote or cork?
Hope to inspect soon...John
John,
Thanks for checking in. On this level I'll have only plywood. The homasote and cork will come later. Although, I'm seriously considering not using homasote as it is very heavy and may be to heavy for my other two levels.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on May 30, 2014, 10:00:01 PM
Quote from: Cuse on May 30, 2014, 09:24:08 PM
Exciting developments!!
Looks great...one question, no homasote or cork?
Hope to inspect soon...John
He just wants to hear the rumble to be sure it didn't fall off the oval-hicks!
His pitures reveal some interestin' facts though -the Judge is the smart one
of the bunch! He commandeered the big comfy chair!! 8) 8) 8)
When you do your inspection, you have my proxy to make the in-appropriate
comments on my behalf that I would! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Good to see you are still around. Thanks for stopping by and just to let you know I got the chair for the Judge. The chair was $149.00 from Staples and I got two on sale for $29.95 each! So there.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 31, 2014, 07:58:04 AM
I'm glad Bill is happy, he has been a bit surly since he hasn't been able to run trains around & around & around & around & around.
Is it me or is there some pattern here?
Nice looking "ovalix" Tom.
Greg,
Yep, the Judge is one happy camper. He is running trains again. The pattern, it's you! Ovalix is working fine.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on May 31, 2014, 11:31:19 AM
That is really impressive. You're off to a great start! I can't wait to see what this is going to lead to. :D
Bob,
Thanks for stopping by and posting a comment! It's going to lead to a great layout.
After all, I'm plagiarizing Cliff Powers layout design. What can go wrong? ;D ;D
Great little clinic this morning on lighting with LEDs, thank you!
Tom ;D
Quote from: maandg on June 02, 2014, 04:17:59 PM
Tom, everything is looking great! I love the Ovalix design...very innovative. I'll be following your impressive progress closely!
Cliff,
Thank you for stopping by, very much appreciated. I didn't want to dedicate a corner for a helix build. I was looking at the bump out and figured if I could fit it in that space and using the entire area, the length would double and drop the incline by almost 1/2! I called it an ovalix as it actually is one and the rest of the room could be used for scenery and structures.
Pam and I had a wonderful time last Sunday. Thank you very much Cliff.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on June 03, 2014, 07:54:10 AM
Hi,
Tom,you made very ggod progress and I´m happy to see some benchwork done.Your Ovalix looks great...It´s fine to see the construction step by step....I think it´s relative easy to get a steady grade of 1.2% up the Ovalix with those 3"...
Keep up the great progress...
Regars,Chris
Chris,
Thanks very much, I appreciate you stoppoing by! The ovalix is really moving now and it certainly is a lot of fun building, time consuming but fun! This part of the build is critical as everything comes off the ovalix on the three levels.
An update will follow in a few minutes.
Tom ;D
I got so busy last week uploading Cliff's layout pictures and recovering from the quickie trip that updating my thread took a back seat.
I finished the ovalix decking for the first loop and started the second loop.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614175933.jpeg)
To get the rise I desired, I cut the 1X2's in 3" pieces. I'm not sure what the material is but the label at Lowes listed the stuff as PVC trim. It comes in 12' lengths so you can get 46 three inch pieces. The saw blade eats up a little bit as you cut the 46! Anyway, the PVC trim pieces are solid and work better than expected.
Here is what I did. I cut the PVC trim on my compound miter saw and tossed them in a bag. I cut five 12' lengths of the PVC so I guess I had close to 240 of the 3" pieces. Once I made and adjusted the first loop, the second and third loops were easy. I first marked where each piece would go and then glued the cut PVC pieces over the lower level bracing supports under the first loop. I used Loctite glue to secure the pieces.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614175950.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614180007.jpeg)
I let the glued pieces dry over night.
Continued in a few.
The next day I placed the next level decking on the white 3" PVC pieces and secured them with 1 1/2" drywall screws. You can see that as I go up on the ovalix, the screws won't show as each row of 3" pieces will cover the screws. If you ever use this method, make sure the screw heads are a little below the plywood so the 3" pieces fit flush on the decking over the screws.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614180034.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614180034.jpeg)
I then move on around the ovalix using the 3" pieces. As I move forward with each section I back track and add the track in the middle of the decking. I use the small thin Micro Engineering pins to secure the track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614180158.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614180158.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614180103.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614180103.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
If 'Gnat reads Tom's post in Comment 176 closely, I can't wait to see his responses. ::)
Quote from: BandOGuy on June 07, 2014, 06:31:38 PM
If 'Gnat reads Tom's post in Comment 176 closely, I can't wait to see his responses. ::)
Can I get a prayerful Amen?
Tom ;D ;D
Never would have thought to use the PVC for this.
Okay, a little fast forward here and you can see the ovalix is progressing as expected. I don't dare say anything else or Gman will get me!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614180230.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614180420.jpeg)
It will take three loops on the ovalix to get to the mid level and six more to get to the top level. For those in Archeensaw, that would be a toal of nine (9) loops.
Now for a little side trip! The track had to swing into position for the ovalix so I didn't have the room for the 3" PVC piece for the support. I used a small piece of the plywood and extended it out from the track. I glued and screwed the piece in place. This was only necessary on the bottom level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614180440.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070614180458.jpeg)
Thanks for following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ak-milw on June 07, 2014, 06:41:54 PM
Never would have thought to use the PVC for this.
Andy,
I appreciate you checking in. I thought is was some type of composite wood until I saw the label. The PVC is solid, hard, glues well and holds the drywall screws. I just got lucky, that's all! I din't think of it either. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Tom
I want you to think about something before you get to far with the PVC - it expands and contracts with temperature much more than wood. If your room is temperature controlled not a problem but I would not use it where you see temperature changes. When one material is expanding more than the material next to it you can get twisting. I just wanted to make sure you took this into consideration. The helix looks great.
Quote from: S&S RR on June 07, 2014, 06:49:43 PM
Tom
I want you to think about something before you get to far with the PVC - it expands and contracts with temperature much more than wood. If your room is temperature controlled not a problem but I would not use it where you see temperature changes. When one material is expanding more than the material next to it you can get twisting. I just wanted to make sure you took this into consideration. The helix looks great.
John,
Thank you for your concern, information and comments, much appreciated. My room is climate controlled so hopefully it won't be an issue but time will tell. For me humidity is more of an issue! Even with the climate controlled room I still notice little changes due to humidity! Maybe I'll just shut it down for a few days, let it cook and see what happens before I go any further. Nail biting go here! :-\ :-\
Tom ;D
Tom
The PVC will do real well with differences in humidity but the wood will not. Since all your risers are PVC I think you will be okay. If you had a wood riser between two PVC risers I think you would get into trouble.
Sorry, I have all this physics stuff implanted in my head from Engineering school and I just looked at your pictures and said two very different materials means expansion and contraction problems.
I used the PVC trim on my cabin last summer and it's great because it doesn't need paint and holds up to the elements - but I was amazed at the 1 inch gaps in my trim when it got real cold last winter. The gaps are gone now that it's nice and warm again.
Good luck with the build I will be watching.
Ok, I see!! After a short break for a quickie and realizin' that a couple of extensions were
needed, L'il Tommy is back to normal - goin' round and round in circles!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
I can think it, but I ain't gonna admit out loud how good the ovalhicks looks!!! 8) 8) 8) 8)
Quote from: gnatshop on June 07, 2014, 07:36:07 PM
Ok, I see!! After a short break for a quickie and realizin' that a couple of extensions were
needed, L'il Tommy is back to normal - goin' round and round in circles!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
I can think it, but I ain't gonna admit out loud how good the ovalhicks looks!!! 8) 8) 8) 8)
"Thank you very much!". (Ed Sullivan). Our prayers have been answered.
Quote from: BandOGuy on June 07, 2014, 07:53:09 PM
"Thank you very much!". (Ed Sullivan). Our prayers have been answered.
Boy, you ain't been prayin' for much, have you? ;D ;D ;D
Here's the normal reaction to my posts:
We've done it again!!!! :-[ :-[ :-[
Glad L'il Tommy is used to common low class street folk's shenanigans and don't get too
pizzed at us interruptin' his thread!
He's a good man that understands real life low-class humor (or attempts at it!). ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom,
Looking great. I can't wait to see the departure tracks to each level. Progress is being made, my friend and it is looking good. I need to get back working on my track to the steel mill area. Been too busy working on another structure. Once the station is complete, it''s back to the track. more pictures please. Love your progress. Keep up the good work.
Frank / Erieman
Tom
It has been awhile since we have had an update - any issues with the PVC?
He ain't talkin' - he's been feelin' shitty (my words, not his)! ;D ;D ;D
But, we can be patient - he'll be back with a vengience! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom
Sorry your feeling under the weather - didn't get the memo. Hope your feeling better real soon!
Quote from: gnatshop on June 07, 2014, 10:18:22 PM
We've done it again!!!! :-[ :-[ :-[
Glad L'il Tommy is used to common low class street folk's shenanigans and don't get too
pizzed at us interruptin' his thread!
He's a good man that understands real life low-class humor (or attempts at it!). ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
You are always welcome here!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on June 12, 2014, 07:38:25 PM
Tom,
Looking great. I can't wait to see the departure tracks to each level. Progress is being made, my friend and it is looking good. I need to get back working on my track to the steel mill area. Been too busy working on another structure. Once the station is complete, it''s back to the track. more pictures please. Love your progress. Keep up the good work.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by. I'll have some pictures soon as I haven't been idle. I've been busy posting the thread on the Magnolia Route.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on June 19, 2014, 09:39:34 PM
Tom
It has been awhile since we have had an update - any issues with the PVC?
John,
Sorry for the late response, I've been working on the ovalix and have more pictures to add. I'll try to get them up this weekend.
I've noticed no issues with the PVC at all. I let the room get hot, about 90 degrees, for four days and didn't see any changes. I ran the trains up and down the ovalix with no noticable change with the track or smoothness of the run.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on June 19, 2014, 09:54:56 PM
He ain't talkin' - he's been feelin' shitty (my words, not his)! ;D ;D ;D
But, we can be patient - he'll be back with a vengience! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Gman,
Thanks for covering for me. I did have a very bad sore throat for a few days. I think I'm finally getting over it!
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on June 19, 2014, 09:59:58 PM
Tom
Sorry your feeling under the weather - didn't get the memo. Hope your feeling better real soon!
John,
I came down with a very bad sore throat on Wednesday afternoon and it kept me out of the game. I'm feeling better now and have more pictures to load later this weekend if not sooner.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 20, 2014, 08:37:45 AM
Quote from: S&S RR on June 19, 2014, 09:39:34 PM
Tom
It has been awhile since we have had an update - any issues with the PVC?
John,
Sorry for the late response, I've been working on the ovalix and have more pictures to add. I'll try to get them up this weekend.
I've noticed no issues with the PVC at all. I let the room get hot, about 90 degrees, for four days and didn't see any changes. I ran the trains up and down the ovalix with no noticable change with the track or smoothness of the run.
Tom ;D
I'm glad to hear your feeling better. And that the PVC is working well for you. I'm looking forward to you next updates on both threads.
Uncle Tommie,
I've heard that a sure fire way to get rid of a sore throat is to drink LOTS of Diet Pepsi! I guess all that acid would kill just about anything. Just saying....
Hehe
;D ;D ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 21, 2014, 09:35:10 PM
Uncle Tommie,
I've heard that a sure fire way to get rid of a sore throat is to drink LOTS of Diet Pepsi! I guess all that acid would kill just about anything. Just saying.... Hehe ;D ;D ;D
If he woulda asked, I woulda sent him the recipe for a true Southern Hot Toddy - it will fix anythang that's
ailin' you (either that or you just won't feel nuthin' anymore.)!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on June 21, 2014, 05:55:40 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 20, 2014, 08:37:45 AM
Quote from: S&S RR on June 19, 2014, 09:39:34 PM
Tom
It has been awhile since we have had an update - any issues with the PVC?
John,
Sorry for the late response, I've been working on the ovalix and have more pictures to add. I'll try to get them up this weekend.
I've noticed no issues with the PVC at all. I let the room get hot, about 90 degrees, for four days and didn't see any changes. I ran the trains up and down the ovalix with no noticable change with the track or smoothness of the run.
Tom ;D
I'm glad to hear your feeling better. And that the PVC is working well for you. I'm looking forward to you next updates on both threads.
John,
Thank you, yes, I'm finally over the sore throat. I haven't been sick in years but I guess I caught the 48 hour bug. No fever or cough, just a very bad sore throat.
I'm going to update this thread later this evening.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 21, 2014, 09:35:10 PM
Uncle Tommie,
I've heard that a sure fire way to get rid of a sore throat is to drink LOTS of Diet Pepsi! I guess all that acid would kill just about anything. Just saying....
Hehe
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
Where have you been and more importantly how are you! Glad to see you out! I was planning on calling you later this week. Anyway, thanks for stopping by!
Winn Dixie has 5, 16fl. oz. 6 packs for $10.00. In my math that comes to just over .33 per bottle! Yes, I did stock up and yes I sucked on Diet Pepsi, ice and of course Chloraseptic Spray!
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on June 21, 2014, 10:12:03 PM
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 21, 2014, 09:35:10 PM
Uncle Tommie,
I've heard that a sure fire way to get rid of a sore throat is to drink LOTS of Diet Pepsi! I guess all that acid would kill just about anything. Just saying.... Hehe ;D ;D ;D
If he woulda asked, I woulda sent him the recipe for a true Southern Hot Toddy - it will fix anythang that's
ailin' you (either that or you just won't feel nuthin' anymore.)!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
I came very close to asking my Babe to fix me one of her specialties - Crown Royal and Coke. I asked if she could fix it with Diet Pepsi and she said yes, but it would taste like s**t! I passed.
Tom ;D
This past Wednesday morning I worked on wiring the ovalix. I dropped several feeders and cut gaps in the two wye sections. No photos of this process. I began to add the supports for the second level runaround track on the ovalix. The next photos shows you how I added the supports with some of my ABC wood, Already Been Cut wood! ;D ;D As you can see this is on the back side of the ovalix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173044.jpeg)
At this time I just laid the second level plywood over these supports. Once I get all the plywood cut and in place over the supports, the wood will be screwed in place. I added another section of the ovalix ramp to the front. I then moved to the front of the ovalix and began to add support posts for the front.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173222.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173240.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173259.jpeg)
Wednesday afternoon I came down with a very bad sore throat so this is where I stopped. I was in bed early Wednesday and pretty much all day Thursday!
Continued in a few.
Looking good Mr. Tom. If you add some seats it could double as a football stadium ;D. Hope you are feeling better. Be careful who you kiss nest time.
On Friday morning I was recovered enough to get back to work on the ovalix. I got the frame work complete for the front section on the second level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173325.jpeg)
I then secured the front ramp section to the ovalix and laid the front section plywood in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173343.jpeg)
This is when I stepped back and realized everything looks good on paper. Refer to the CAD drawing below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614180141.jpeg)
Major problem here. The cross over in the center bottom of the photo show how a train can cross from the right on the second level and enter the ovalix and go down from the second level. Here's the problem, the crossover is on two separate levels.
For your convenience I've added this photo for reference. See the two levels in the photo where the crossover should be?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173343.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on June 22, 2014, 06:05:32 PM
Looking good Mr. Tom. If you add some seats it could double as a football stadium ;D . Hope you are feeling better. Be careful who you kiss nest time.
Funny man Billy! I got the throat crud from someone on Tuesday I guess.
The ovalix does look like a football stadium. I think I'll call it the Florida Cracker Stadium and see if Congress objects.
Tom ;D
Referring to the next CAD drawing, you can see the the green and blue lines appear to be on the same level. They aren't but need to be.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173406.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173406.jpeg)
This had me scratching my head for a good long time. The next CAD drawing shows you where the level part of the oval is - it's marked in Orange.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173425.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173425.jpeg)
The crossover section seen below needs to be on the same level as I mentioned and marked in Green below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614181757.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614181757.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I had the same thought about it looking like a football stadium. Glad to see your moving forward with the new layout. Raymo
I came up with the only solution available to me. Either I'm a genius or a dang fool!
Here is what I did to make it work!
Remembering my cookie cutter layout days gone by, I decided to make the crossover on the same level, well actually, the same plane! The grade is only 1.1% so I marked where all the turnouts needed to go and drew pencil lines where I needed to cut the plywood.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173511.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173529.jpeg)
Time for a big Diet Pepsi break, I'll be back in a few.
Quote from: Raymo on June 22, 2014, 06:20:45 PM
I had the same thought about it looking like a football stadium. Glad to see your moving forward with the new layout. Raymo
Raymo,
I appreciate you stopping by for a look at the new ovalix stadium! ;D ;D ;D Yes, I'm finally making some progress on the new layout.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173547.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173630.jpeg)
After laying out the turnouts I added a few short sections of track to see how it would look. Once satisfied, I removed the tracka nd turnouts and cut out the pattern. I then secured the cut section and leveled it with the ramp secion and then added the turnouts.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173650.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173719.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
At this point the track has inclined only 3/8" on the left and only 3/4" on the right so the transition back to level two will be an easy grade as well. I did test this area extensively with a fenicky brass 4-6-2 and it ran fine in all directions. Apparantly having the three turnouts on the 1.1% grade was a stroke of genius!
Okay, maybe just a pure stroke of good fortune as well.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173739.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173739.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173759.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173759.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173820.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220614173820.jpeg)
Time to stop while I'm ahead! Thanks for following along.
Tom ;D
Fantastic! Can't wait to see this structure!
John
Uncle Tommie,
My God man! Did somebody put a little something extra in your Diet Pepsi! This is insanity!
Hehe
BTW, have you done a train "Rollthru" test on the new helix? I would hate for you discover too late that those passenger cars of yours can't make it thru the beast! Of course it would be a serious problem if those refer cars filled with "Diet Pepsi" couldn't make it from the lower level to the upper level? What would those poor town folk on your layout be forced to do. Drink Diet Coke? Say it isn't so Uncle Tommie!
;D ;D ;D
Darn, for a feller that been runnin' around in circles, that looks awesome! ;D ;D ;D
Are you sure that you ain't descended from the Ledbetters? Their mantra is - if it don't fit, either get a
bigger hammer or bring the saw back out!
Excellent solution!!! 8) 8) 8)
By the way, always trust the Babe - she was right - Crown Royal and Diet Pepsi would taste like s**t! ::) ::) ::)
Tom
Your making great progress.
Great progress Tom....glad to see you getting back to running trains......
Quote from: Cuse on June 22, 2014, 08:52:15 PM
Fantastic! Can't wait to see this structure!
John
John,
Greg and Bill Cutler are coming by Thursday, June 16th and we'll be catching a little BBQ as well. Come on by or give a call! We'll be here.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 22, 2014, 09:12:49 PM
Uncle Tommie,
My God man! Did somebody put a little something extra in your Diet Pepsi! This is insanity!
Hehe
BTW, have you done a train "Rollthru" test on the new helix? I would hate for you discover too late that those passenger cars of yours can't make it thru the beast! Of course it would be a serious problem if those refer cars filled with "Diet Pepsi" couldn't make it from the lower level to the upper level? What would those poor town folk on your layout be forced to do. Drink Diet Coke? Say it isn't so Uncle Tommie!
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
Yes, I've run several test runs and the Diet Pepsi tankers and reefers work the best of course. Diet Coke, I tell you true Cousin, I don't do Diet Coke, period!
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on June 22, 2014, 10:14:44 PM
Darn, for a feller that been runnin' around in circles, that looks awesome! ;D ;D ;D
Are you sure that you ain't descended from the Ledbetters? Their mantra is - if it don't fit, either get a
bigger hammer or bring the saw back out!
Excellent solution!!! 8) 8) 8)
By the way, always trust the Babe - she was right - Crown Royal and Diet Pepsi would taste like s**t! ::) ::) ::)
Gman,
Okay, I admit I do have Ledbetter blood in me. The Ledbetter in me said, "This layout don't work! Remove the entire thing and start over"! And so I did!
I'll have to take the Babe and your word, I didn't try either one!
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on June 22, 2014, 10:46:36 PM
Tom
Your making great progress.
Thanks John,
Yes, I'm slowly moving up! Actually I'm moving up and around.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jlgrove on June 23, 2014, 06:47:49 AM
Great progress Tom....glad to see you getting back to running trains......
Groovy Jeff,
Yes, it is good to be running trains again. I'll be even more happy to get the layout around the room startred.
Tom ;D
Uncle Tommie,
Please excuse my last post Uncle Tommie. I know you don't drink Diet Coke. Like most of us you only use that stuff for cleaning out clogged drains! I do have to say in all honestly like everyone else that you are making some amazing progress on the new layout. One thing to keep in mind that you will need some passing tracks on both ends of the helix to "stack up" trains that need to use the helix. Is most of the helix going to be hidden by scenery in the future?
;D 8) ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 25, 2014, 12:26:29 AM
Uncle Tommie,
Please excuse my last post Uncle Tommie. I know you don't drink Diet Coke. Like most of us you only use that stuff for cleaning out clogged drains! I do have to say in all honestly like everyone else that you are making some amazing progress on the new layout. One thing to keep in mind that you will need some passing tracks on both ends of the helix to "stack up" trains that need to use the helix. Is most of the helix going to be hidden by scenery in the future?
;D 8) ;D
Cousin Brucie,
No need for an opology, you know I would never stoop so low as to have a Diet C. I can't even say the word. I once poured the stuff on my car battery and it cleaned up real good!
No passing tracks for the ovalix, but yes, I will have a passing siding for those waiting entrance to the ovalix. A part of the ovalix will be hidden and part will be open.
Tom ;D
Tom The layout is looking good. Looks like you could put the dispatcher inside of the ovalix. Always thinking about operation.
Tom W
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 22, 2014, 06:10:51 PM
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on June 22, 2014, 06:05:32 PM
Looking good Mr. Tom. If you add some seats it could double as a football stadium ;D . Hope you are feeling better. Be careful who you kiss nest time.
Funny man Billy! I got the throat crud from someone on Tuesday I guess.
The ovalix does look like a football stadium. I think I'll call it the Florida Cracker Stadium and see if Congress objects.
Tom ;D
And if they do......?
Getting caught up here this AM due to travel delays.
Two questions:
1. Tom:how do you plan to ballast all that track in the ovalix?
2. To the general population: have you ever wondered when someone says "tastes like s**t, how do they get a baseline for comparison? ::)
Regarding the second question.
We all have an assumption of what it might taste like. So when anything strays towards such a formula of taste..... Our detector sounds loudly.
Got it?????
See ya
Bob
Quote from: TomW on June 25, 2014, 08:17:22 AM
Tom The layout is looking good. Looks like you could put the dispatcher inside of the ovalix. Always thinking about operation.
Tom W
Tom,
Thank you, much appreciated. Yes, operations is the key!
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on June 25, 2014, 11:17:44 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 22, 2014, 06:10:51 PM
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on June 22, 2014, 06:05:32 PM
Looking good Mr. Tom. If you add some seats it could double as a football stadium ;D . Hope you are feeling better. Be careful who you kiss nest time.
Funny man Billy! I got the throat crud from someone on Tuesday I guess.
The ovalix does look like a football stadium. I think I'll call it the Florida Cracker Stadium and see if Congress objects.
Tom ;D
And if they do......?
Congress and the patent office can kiss my ballast! I ain't gonna change the name!
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on June 25, 2014, 11:23:07 AM
Getting caught up here this AM due to travel delays.
Two questions:
1. Tom:how do you plan to ballast all that track in the ovalix?
2. To the general population: have you ever wondered when someone says "tastes like s**t, how do they get a baseline for comparison? ::)
Band,
1. It would be a waste of ballast and time to ballast the ovalix, so, no ballast in the ovalix!
2. My Babe said it would taste like "s**t", meaning "soot"! I'm not sure what everyone else was thinking. When we clean the fireplace, we both know what "soot" tastes like! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 24, 2014, 05:57:29 PM
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 22, 2014, 09:12:49 PM
Uncle Tommie,
My God man! Did somebody put a little something extra in your Diet Pepsi! This is insanity!
Hehe
BTW, have you done a train "Rollthru" test on the new helix? I would hate for you discover too late that those passenger cars of yours can't make it thru the beast! Of course it would be a serious problem if those refer cars filled with "Diet Pepsi" couldn't make it from the lower level to the upper level? What would those poor town folk on your layout be forced to do. Drink Diet Coke? Say it isn't so Uncle Tommie!
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
Yes, I've run several test runs and the Diet Pepsi tankers and reefers work the best of course. Diet Coke, I tell you true Cousin, I don't do Diet Coke, period!
Tom ;D
Watch it you two. A LOT of Diet Coke went into building a few of the structures I hope to see on the new layout someday soon. ;)
Soot!
Why didn't I think of that? :-\
Quote from: ReadingBob on June 25, 2014, 07:49:02 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 24, 2014, 05:57:29 PM
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 22, 2014, 09:12:49 PM
Uncle Tommie,
My God man! Did somebody put a little something extra in your Diet Pepsi! This is insanity!
Hehe
BTW, have you done a train "Rollthru" test on the new helix? I would hate for you discover too late that those passenger cars of yours can't make it thru the beast! Of course it would be a serious problem if those refer cars filled with "Diet Pepsi" couldn't make it from the lower level to the upper level? What would those poor town folk on your layout be forced to do. Drink Diet Coke? Say it isn't so Uncle Tommie!
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
Yes, I've run several test runs and the Diet Pepsi tankers and reefers work the best of course. Diet Coke, I tell you true Cousin, I don't do Diet Coke, period!
Tom ;D
Watch it you two. A LOT of Diet Coke went into building a few of the structures I hope to see on the new layout someday soon. ;)
Oh boy, my sincere apologies Master Builder of the Atlantic and Southern. However, I don't remember ever seeing a Diet Coke in any photos of your builds. I have; however, seen plenty of glasses of some sort of vino!!!!!!!! 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on June 25, 2014, 08:38:49 PM
Soot!
Why didn't I think of that? :-\
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 25, 2014, 05:30:59 PM
Quote from: TomW on June 25, 2014, 08:17:22 AM
Tom The layout is looking good. Looks like you could put the dispatcher inside of the ovalix. Always thinking about operation.
Tom W
Tom,
Thank you, much appreciated. Yes, operations is the key!
Tom ;D
Operations with the SBG.....that ought to be something to see!
Quote from: GPdemayo on June 26, 2014, 08:41:24 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 25, 2014, 05:30:59 PM
Quote from: TomW on June 25, 2014, 08:17:22 AM
Tom The layout is looking good. Looks like you could put the dispatcher inside of the ovalix. Always thinking about operation.
Tom W
Tom,
Thank you, much appreciated. Yes, operations is the key!
Tom ;D
Operations with the SBG.....that ought to be something to see!
I'm ready!!!!!!!!!
Tom ;D
I did find the time to get a lot more work done on the ovalix but mainly the second level.
First, I feel obligated to set the record straight. The official drink, libation, nerve block or any category you choose to place it in,. is DIET PEPSI! My Babe's, Pam, official drink is COKE and CROWN ROYAL! Okay, now on to the trains!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614130139.jpeg)
The next few photos show the second level complete.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125026.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125053.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125112.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
As I did on the first level, I did extensive track testing on the second level. By this I mean I made sure every track joint was smooth to my fingers and the test car. I again ran my ACL 4-8-4, 4-6-2, E7 and double headed Seaboard GP-9's around and through each turnout several times and several times in both directions. Before I move on I want to make sure the track work is as perfect as possible as once I move up to the third level repair will be next to impossible.
In the next couple of photos you can see where the brass 4-8-4 is on the ovalix track just past the turnout leading to the second level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125132.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125152.jpeg)
The next set of photos show you the ACL R1, 4-8-4 crossing the turnouts from the ovalix to the second level runaround track. I'm happy to report that the loco and train passed though here without incident. Remember I said I did extensive testing?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125212.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125231.jpeg)
Continued in a few. It's Diet Pepsi time!
You can see the train has now made the loop and is coming up to the front of the second level. If the train took the first turnout, the engineer would have the ability to enter the ovalix to go up or cross over the turnouts and leave the ovalix area in the opposite direction.
If the train were going in the opposite direction and the engineer wanted to go down the ovalix, he would use the cross over mentioned above, enter the ovalix and go down the ovalix. Basically, the runaround tracks are nothing more than a very large oval reverse loop.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125245.jpeg)
I think by now many of you know I strongly believe in the 5P's principle!
Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance!
Here's an example. Track work that is level and correct!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125302.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The next four photos show you the track and the lower level runaround. Sorry about the lack of a depth of field, I used my Sony Cybershot for the photos. You are looking from front to back and left to right.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125330.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125346.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125403.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290614125418.jpeg)
Thanks for following along.
I'm taking a break from the layout and ovalix building for a week or so! I haven't built a structure since June of last year and I need to get my hands back in the glue and my nose back in the smell of Floquil paints.
Tom ;D
Well, I said I was going to take a break but nobody noticed I said it, so never mind! I need to get this ovalix and related track finish before I can take a break. Other wise it will be on my mind the whole time.
Today I installed four Tortoise switch machines. These however, had to be installed on top and to the side of the turnout. There was no room to install them under the plywood. You can see the issue in the next three photos.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184453.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184453.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184510.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184510.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184527.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184527.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I placed a Tortoise switch motor on the plywood at a distance from the turnout and made sure I had the proper clearance so the train had room to pass. I marked where the Tortoise was to be located. I made sure the Tortoise throw bar was on the same line as the turnout throw bar. I then drilled a hole where the Tortoise throw bar would point down and through the drilled hole.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184549.jpeg)
The top of the turnout throw bar is a scale 4" above the plywood. I used a scale 4X12" piece of stripwood and glued this piece on the plywood in line with the throw bar. You can see this in the previous photo. For those in Orlando, it will be the photo above. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D Love you guys, just kidding as I'm sure no one is reading this drab stuff! :o :o :o
I then cut a piece of copper tubing a little shorter than the scale 4X12" stripwood. I used copper as opposed to brass as I couldn't find my brass tubing but I did find my copper tubing. The tubing is 3/32". When I cut the tubing I found burrs in the hole and I cleaned out the hole in the tubing with the sharp blade end of a #11 Xacto blade. Refer to the photo below!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184609.jpeg)
I then took a piece of .032 Music Wire and with a neddle nose plier made a loop in one end. I then cut the wire longer than needed and slid it through the copper tubing. I placed the copper tubing on the scale 4X12" stripwood with the Tortoise throw bar wire through the loop in the wire as shown below!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184719.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I then measured where I needed to cut the wire so it would fit the turnout throwbar. The wire was bent down and perpendicular to the loop in the other end.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184743.jpeg)
I then did a fit test. Also, I cut the end of the wire to less than a scale 4". This end is to fit in the hole on the throw bar and you don't want it drag on the plywood. Okay, when I said I cut the wire to less than a scale 4", is was just a SWAG
(scientific wild ass guess) cut!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184801.jpeg)
When satisfied with the placement and ease of throw bar movement, I added a drop of CA glue to each side of the copper tubing. One drop will do as you don't want the glue to get on the wire.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184824.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I let the CA glue dry for an hour and then attached the Tortoise to the plywood. I didn't use screws for this. I used a little hot glue to secure the Tortoise. If you've never done this don't be concerned about trying something new or different. For this particlular install it is necessary for one very good reason. If the motor was to ever fail, I can get in and knock it away with a small hammer. No concern of damage as the motor no longer works. Anyway, knock it away and glue on another one. I've used hot glue to secure a Tortoise to the underside of plywood for the traditional install as well.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184845.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184845.jpeg)
Trust me here! When the glue dries the motor won't move and you will need a small hammer to knock it loose. Now you don't need to know how I know this bit of minutia.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184900.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184900.jpeg)
Two motors on the runaround track installed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184924.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184924.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I installed two other motors on the inside of the ovalix in the same manner as the others. On these two I did need to glue on plywood so the motors could be installed. The three photos below show this install.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184937.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184937.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184952.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714184952.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714185010.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020714185010.jpeg)
Easy peasy!
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 02, 2014, 07:29:35 PM
Also, I cut the end of the wire to less than a scale 4". This end is to fit in the hole on the throw bar and you don't want it drag on the plywood. Okay, when I said I cut the wire to less than a scale 4", is was just a SWAG
(scientific wild ass guess) cut!
OK,
NOW the rest of the SBG can understand this part of the explanation! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Nice work Tom! Looking good!
One question. How did a stockpile of Diet Pepsi survive long enough in the man cave for you to take a picture of it?
;D ;D ;D
Tom
You have been very busy- it is looking great!
Quote from: gnatshop on July 02, 2014, 08:15:17 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 02, 2014, 07:29:35 PM
Also, I cut the end of the wire to less than a scale 4". This end is to fit in the hole on the throw bar and you don't want it drag on the plywood. Okay, when I said I cut the wire to less than a scale 4", is was just a SWAG
(scientific wild ass guess) cut!
OK, NOW the rest of the SBG can understand this part of the explanation! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Well, let's hope so anyway! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on July 02, 2014, 09:17:17 PM
Nice work Tom! Looking good!
One question. How did a stockpile of Diet Pepsi survive long enough in the man cave for you to take a picture of it?
;D ;D ;D
Bruce,
Thanks for the visit! The Diet Pepsi is constantly being restocked! Not to worry, I never run out! Well, I run out to get more but the stash never runs low! 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on July 02, 2014, 09:34:32 PM
Tom
You have been very busy- it is looking great!
John,
Yes, I've been busy on this. I need to get it finished so I can build a structure!
Tom ;D
Wow, you're getting a lot of work done. Thanks for the reminder of the hot glue Tortoise installation. It's been so long since I did my last one, I'd forgotten it!
Jeff
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on July 03, 2014, 07:44:37 AM
Wow, you're getting a lot of work done. Thanks for the reminder of the hot glue Tortoise installation. It's been so long since I did my last one, I'd forgotten it!
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
Yes, I've been a busy little worker the past week or so! Thanks for stopping by, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Tom....
The idea of hot gluing the switch machines is a super idea.
Thanx
Bob
Good Afternoon Tom,
I took a break from picking pods and started digging a tench for buried irrigation lines to a couple of new trees. I must be absolutely nuts to be doing this stuff this time of year. It's @*%ing hot out there. so here I sit, computer in my lap, sweating like a dog, the fan blowing on me to cool me down, typing this post.
Absolutely great job on the ovalix. And I like the way you mount the switch machines. Russ and I do something similar. If I could be so bold, may I make a suggestion. Instead of using super glue to fasten the brass rod to the plywood, use hot glue there as well. No waiting, or very little at best..Just don't burn you fingers!
Another 110 degree day here in the desert, so I will be in the train room for the rest of the day! Yes, more shingles. I think I can finish one side of the station.My wife keeps coming in to make sure that I am still alive ( sound familiar) and always asks when and if I am going to vacuum the floor. AFTER the shingles are all done!!!
Well, back to it. Keep up the beautiful work. Can't wait to see the three levels as they branch out from the corner. Go build a structure!
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 03, 2014, 07:38:50 AM
Quote from: S&S RR on July 02, 2014, 09:34:32 PM
Tom
You have been very busy- it is looking great!
John,
Yes, I've been busy on this. I need to get it finished so I can build a structure!
Tom ;D
Tom
So define finished? If you feel like building a structure for awhile then just do it.
Quote from: bparrish on July 03, 2014, 02:32:27 PM
Tom....
The idea of hot gluing the switch machines is a super idea.
Thanx
Bob
Bob,
Thanks for stopping by for a look see. I came on the hot glue for Tortoise machines when I was under the layout, upside down, in some exorcist body twisting mode, trying to hold the machine in place and at the same time screw it in place. The hot glue solved all those issues! :P :P :P
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on July 03, 2014, 02:35:27 PM
Good Afternoon Tom,
Absolutely great job on the ovalix. And I like the way you mount the switch machines. Russ and I do something similar. If I could be so bold, may I make a suggestion. Instead of using super glue to fasten the brass rod to the plywood, use hot glue there as well. No waiting, or very little at best..Just don't burn you fingers!
Well, back to it. Keep up the beautiful work. Can't wait to see the three levels as they branch out from the corner. Go build a structure!
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Morning Frank and Happy Independence Day!
Thanks for the comment. I actually forgot to mention that the CA glue was to hold the linkage in place while I tested the machine and linkage. It's kind of scary how we are so much on the same page. I did in fact go back to the linkage and "hot glued" the linkage in place after I was satisfied with the operation aspect of the mount. In the past, I've found it much easier to remove and fix a badly aligned linkage with only the CA glue as opposed to taking a plier and removing it! I'll be sure and add this info to the thread in my next post. Again, thank you for the reminder.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on July 03, 2014, 09:52:56 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 03, 2014, 07:38:50 AM
Quote from: S&S RR on July 02, 2014, 09:34:32 PM
Tom
You have been very busy- it is looking great!
John,
Yes, I've been busy on this. I need to get it finished so I can build a structure!
Tom ;D
Tom
So define finished? If you feel like building a structure for awhile then just do it.
John,
Thanks for the visit, much appreciated. By "finished" I meant I wanted to get the ovalix finished before starting a structure build. And while I'm building a structure, I can then move on to the rest of the bench work.
Tom ;D
Shoudln't you be building something?
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 04, 2014, 09:50:15 AM
Shoudln't you be building something?
Yes sir, I'm building an ovalix!
Tom ;D ;D
Roger.....
Looking good, Tom! My you've got a lot of work done!
Cheers, Mark.
Quote from: mark dalrymple on July 04, 2014, 05:57:49 PM
Looking good, Tom! My you've got a lot of work done!
Cheers, Mark.
Mark,
Thank you, very much appreciated! More coming soon to a thread near you!
Tom ;D
In one of the last posts, Erieman, Frank Baker, mentioned that he would also add a little hot glue to the copper tube to hold it securily in place. I actually did this but I didn't mention it in the thread. Anyway, here is a photo of what I did. I used CA glue and a spot of hot glue.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130714151746.jpeg)
Here are a few progress photos. No narrative necessary - I don't think!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130714151803.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130714151820.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Tom, aren't you worried about bumping into that Tortoise jutting into the center? The layers are going up pretty quickly, nice work.
Jeff
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130714151837.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130714151837.jpeg)
This morning I cut more of the 3" supports from a 10' length of 1X2" solid PVC trim stock. Boy does it make a mess. You can see why I cut it outside on the backyard sidewalk!! Looks like a snow storm hit my compound miter saw! Is that a little dusting of snow on the grass?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130714151857.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130714151857.jpeg)
This next photo is of the begining of the sixth level on the ovalix! Only three more to go after this one.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130714151917.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130714151917.jpeg)
Thanks for following along. Don't be shy, let me know what you think!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on July 13, 2014, 03:33:37 PM
Tom, aren't you worried about bumping into that Tortoise jutting into the center? The layers are going up pretty quickly, nice work.
Jeff
Jeff,
Thanks for stopping, looking and posting a comment, much appreciated.
No, there is plenty of room. The inside of the ovalix would be a great spot for a dispatcher! I have most of the ovalix pieces cut so it shouldn't be to long before it is finished, the ovalix that is! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Tom
It's all starting to make sense. It took me a time to sort out the oval part of helix. This is really cool.
Thanx
Bob
OK, i won't be shy!
Just another crazy old railroader runnin' around in circles and and pizzin' off his wife with the mess
in the yard!
But, somehow, he pulled it off and built an awesome helhicks.
Very unusal, but the Ledbetters are clappin' for him!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: bparrish on July 14, 2014, 10:09:18 PM
Tom
It's all starting to make sense. It took me a time to sort out the oval part of helix. This is really cool.
Thanx
Bob
Bob,
It took me awhile to get it figured out as well. After a bit of time it all made sense!
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on July 14, 2014, 11:35:54 PM
OK, i won't be shy!
Just another crazy old railroader runnin' around in circles and and pizzin' off his wife with the mess
in the yard!
But, somehow, he pulled it off and built an awesome helhicks.
Very unusal, but the Ledbetters are clappin' for him!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Not to worry, I know my babe so I made sure it was all cleaned up prior to her seeing it! I'm no dummy, well, most of the time I'm not!
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on July 14, 2014, 10:09:18 PM
Tom
It's all starting to make sense. It took me a time to sort out the oval part of helix. This is really cool.
Thanx
Bob
Bob - I've seen it first hand and I'm still lost. :o I wonder if Digitrax has a GPS plug in. I'm afraid my trains going to go into this thing and I'll never see it again. ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on July 15, 2014, 02:37:06 PM
Quote from: bparrish on July 14, 2014, 10:09:18 PM
Tom
It's all starting to make sense. It took me a time to sort out the oval part of helix. This is really cool.
Thanx
Bob
Bob - I've seen it first hand and I'm still lost. :o I wonder if Digitrax has a GPS plug in. I'm afraid my trains going to go into this thing and I'll never see it again. ;D
I'm glad I'm not the only confused guy around here..... ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on July 15, 2014, 02:37:06 PM
Quote from: bparrish on July 14, 2014, 10:09:18 PM
Tom
It's all starting to make sense. It took me a time to sort out the oval part of helix. This is really cool.
Thanx
Bob
Bob - I've seen it first hand and I'm still lost. :o I wonder if Digitrax has a GPS plug in. I'm afraid my trains going to go into this thing and I'll never see it again. ;D
Bob,
Have no fear, if your Reading T1 should get lost I'll find it for you!
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 15, 2014, 02:59:54 PM
Quote from: ReadingBob on July 15, 2014, 02:37:06 PM
Quote from: bparrish on July 14, 2014, 10:09:18 PM
Tom
It's all starting to make sense. It took me a time to sort out the oval part of helix. This is really cool.
Thanx
Bob
Bob - I've seen it first hand and I'm still lost. :o I wonder if Digitrax has a GPS plug in. I'm afraid my trains going to go into this thing and I'll never see it again. ;D
I'm glad I'm not the only confused guy around here..... ;D
Oh ye of little or no faith!
Tom ;D
Forrest Gump quote!
"I may not know what love is, Jenny! But I know this ovalix is a track eating machine!"
Funny stuff
See ya
Bob
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 15, 2014, 05:00:47 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 15, 2014, 02:59:54 PM
Quote from: ReadingBob on July 15, 2014, 02:37:06 PM
Quote from: bparrish on July 14, 2014, 10:09:18 PM
Tom
It's all starting to make sense. It took me a time to sort out the oval part of helix. This is really cool.
Thanx
Bob
Bob - I've seen it first hand and I'm still lost. :o I wonder if Digitrax has a GPS plug in. I'm afraid my trains going to go into this thing and I'll never see it again. ;D
I'm glad I'm not the only confused guy around here..... ;D
Oh ye of little or no faith!
Tom ;D
I have plenty of faith, I know you will find Bob's T1, I'm just confused.....
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 16, 2014, 09:00:46 AM
I have plenty of faith, I know you will find Bob's T1, I'm just confused.....
I ain't confuzzed, but gettin' a little dizzier with every piture!! ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on July 16, 2014, 06:24:40 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 16, 2014, 09:00:46 AM
I have plenty of faith, I know you will find Bob's T1, I'm just confused.....
I ain't confuzzed, but gettin' a little dizzier with every piture!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Just remember, "The train goes round and round and it comes out here"! This should help a little.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 16, 2014, 06:53:20 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on July 16, 2014, 06:24:40 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 16, 2014, 09:00:46 AM
I have plenty of faith, I know you will find Bob's T1, I'm just confused.....
I ain't confuzzed, but gettin' a little dizzier with every piture!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Just remember, "The train goes round and round and it comes out here"! This should help a little.
Tom ;D
Or it comes out over there!
Quote from: S&S RR on July 16, 2014, 10:15:42 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 16, 2014, 06:53:20 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on July 16, 2014, 06:24:40 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 16, 2014, 09:00:46 AM
I have plenty of faith, I know you will find Bob's T1, I'm just confused.....
I ain't confuzzed, but gettin' a little dizzier with every piture!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Just remember, "The train goes round and round and it comes out here"! This should help a little.
Tom ;D
Or it comes out over there!
John and Gman,
Actually, here, there, over there, in here, under there, behind there, in front of here and everywhere else!
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130714151917.jpeg)
The photo above shows you where I left off on the ovalix! I've done a little more since then, not much but a little.
I cut more of the ovalix track bases and continued working towards the top!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170714104026.jpeg)
I'm now on level 6-7. The track is on level six and the base is being attached so the track can be added to level seven. The photo below shows you how it looks as of noon today, Sunday, July 20th.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714142849.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I got tired of running the freight so I decided to let a couple of ACL E units do some of the work. Here are ACL E7's #548 and 547 coming off level two to take the run round track to enter the ovalix and continue to the top. I'm not sure the passengers know exactly what is gong on! A Ledbetter cousin of Gman's stated he isn't fooled. The ACL is just "Running us a round in a circle"! It figures, the guy doesn't even know the difference between and ovalix or a circle!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714142908.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714142908.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714142926.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714142926.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The ACL passenger train made it to the top without incident!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714142946.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714143024.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714143007.jpeg)
The quick Grip in the above photo is the end of level 7 and the begining of level 8. When the glue on the white 3" supports dry, I'll add the track and move on to level 8!
Continued in a few.
Tom.......
So how many trips around the planet are you going? ?? ?
see ya
Bob
For a change of pace and a different look at the ovalix I'll let ya'll see what it looks like from the inside. You can see the seven levels in the next photo.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714143301.jpeg)
I'd also like to mention that I had forum member PennsyJ1, Bill Cutler, over Thursday morning and he was kind enough to help me unpack a few of the boxes I have stacked around the walls. The above photo shows you some of the Atlantic and Southern passenger equipment he unpacked for me. I think I'm a box short but it will turn up sometime or somewhere.
The next photo shows you what I see inside the ovalix. You can see my little chair! After all, I can't stand in the ovalix all day without taking a break! LOL!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714143220.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714143042.jpeg)
The next two photos will give you a worms eye view from inside the ovalix. The area inside the ovalix is approximately 6' X 8'.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714143109.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200714143243.jpeg)
My next update will be Thursday or Friday! Thanks for following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on July 20, 2014, 03:12:25 PM
Tom.......
So how many trips around the planet are you going? ?? ?
see ya
Bob
Bob,
I'll be making at least 10 total as long as I stay away from the moon! It will take 7 loops from the second level to the third. This will give me 20" between the two levels.
Thanks for stopping by!
Tom ;D
Good to see a fire extinguisher nearby. ;D Good grief, how many passenger trains do you plan to run at once?
Jeff
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 20, 2014, 03:19:44 PM
Quote from: bparrish on July 20, 2014, 03:12:25 PM
Tom.......
So how many trips around the planet are you going? ?? ?
see ya
Bob
Bob,
I'll be making at least 10 total as long as I stay away from the moon! It will take 7 loops from the second level to the third. This will give me 20" between the two levels.
Thanks for stopping by!
Tom ;D
If you keep going up your going to have to rent some space from NASA in that building they have for assembling shuttles. It may be available.
Goollly! What are we gonna see when he starts buildin' the diff'rent layers of the REAL railroad? ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
The Pyramids, The Grand Canyon, and now...The Ovalix, eighth wonder of the world.
Or is it 9th? King Kong was the 8th
John
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on July 20, 2014, 04:02:39 PM
Good to see a fire extinguisher nearby. ;D Good grief, how many passenger trains do you plan to run at once?
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
Thanks for stopping by, much appreciated. I will be able to run four at one time but I have twenty total. Those are only about 75% of my passenger car stash! Can't have an empire if the fleet is small! LOL!
Update later this evening.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on July 20, 2014, 10:32:03 PM
Goollly! What are we gonna see when he starts buildin' the diff'rent layers of the REAL railroad? ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Where have you been my friend? Never mind, you've been taking the Ledbetters around town, I remember now! Not sure what you'll see when the rest of it starts but we will see it together.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on July 20, 2014, 10:39:06 PM
The Pyramids, The Grand Canyon, and now...The Ovalix, eighth wonder of the world.
Or is it 9th? King Kong was the 8th
John
John,
Thanks for stopping by and checking in. I'll settle for #9! More updates this evening.
Tom ;D
This past week I got more work done but I did take a little break from the ovalix build.
I decided to see how the lower level would work around the wall so I did a little work there. On this part, meaning the section coming off the left/east side of the staging tracks, I wanted to keep it close to the wall. This section is to short for any thing more than a single track. I used tapcons to secure a piece of 2X2 to the wall. I then screwed a length of 1X4 to the 2X2's.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182410.jpeg)
I measured and cut a piece of 1/2" plywood to hold the track for the "wye"!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182428.jpeg)
I came upon a slight problem when I placed the #8 turnout down. The center of the throwbar on the turnout was directly above the 1X4 brace that is screwed to the 2X2.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182545.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Here is how I resolved this issue. I measured where the turnout would be over the 1X4 bracing. I added two of the 2X2's and used more tapcons to secure them to the wall. I made sure they were level before screwing them in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182606.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182626.jpeg)
I then marked cut lines on the bracing and made the cut leaving the section below the throwbar open.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182642.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182659.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Tom...
Pretty creative sir.........
I would have moved the turnout or struggled with a linkage from elsewhere..........
great solution.
see ya
Bob
I next placed the 1/2" plywood over the opening and drew the lines on the plywood where the cut was made on the bracing. I drew two small lines in the middle where the throwbar hole will be drilled.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182717.jpeg)
I drilled the hole and added the turnout. Note I also have an Atlas rerailer next to the turnout. Remember, the distance between the staging level and the middle level is only 10" so I figured a little insurance wouldn't hurt to keep the trains on the track at this level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182736.jpeg)
Time for a Diet Pepsi break, back in a few minutes.
Quote from: bparrish on July 26, 2014, 06:57:40 PM
Tom...
Pretty creative sir.........
I would have moved the turnout or struggled with a linkage from elsewhere..........
great solution.
see ya
Bob
,
Bob,
Thank you my friend. This seemed the best solution to the problem but I did consider moving the turnout. I like this better! Thanks for stopping by and posting a comment!
Tom ;D
And, here is how it will look when installed!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714191313.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714191313.jpeg)
I took the bracing around the wall and still need to add more supports for the "shelf" section of the staging level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182812.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182812.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182755.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182755.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Here are a few photos of the completed section or "shelf" portion of the staging level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182527.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182505.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182831.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Today, Judge Bill Eaton came over and we added another loop and a half to the ovalix. It is now eight and one half levels high. One and a half left to get to the top level. The top level will be 20" above the middle level and high enough as to not be a view block for the second level. I think that makes sense, cents, cense, or what ever. I'm tired!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182852.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714182852.jpeg)
Oh, buy the way, this is what happens when you let your hand get in the way of a hot glue gun and letting the hot glue fall on said hand!
So, I told the doctor it hurt when I did it. He said then don't do it!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714193305.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260714193305.jpeg)
I'm going to go watch Burt Lancaster in The Train! Dang my fingers hurt!
You're slippin', my friend!!
All this work, all these pictures, and I ain't seen a Diet Pepsi sittin' in none of them! :o :o :o :o
You need a mini-fridge sittin' under the ovalhicks so this end of the room ain't 'Dry Country'! ;D ;D ;D
Mr. Tom Been there... done that. Wrap that hand around a cold Diet Pepsi! ;D
Bill
So, what have you been doing when your resting.....? ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on July 26, 2014, 07:41:10 PM
You're slippin', my friend!!
All this work, all these pictures, and I ain't seen a Diet Pepsi sittin' in none of them! :o :o :o :o
You need a mini-fridge sittin' under the ovalhicks so this end of the room ain't 'Dry Country'! ;D ;D ;D
Matter of fact, the first thing I grabbed was my bottle of Diet Pepsi! Nuff said!
Tom ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on July 26, 2014, 08:41:09 PM
Mr. Tom Been there... done that. Wrap that hand around a cold Diet Pepsi! ;D
Bill
Bill,
I've done it before but never this bad! The cold Diet Pepsi bottle helped. It was a cold sting instead of a hot one, but it stung none the less!
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 27, 2014, 08:26:27 AM
So, what have you been doing when your resting.....? ;D
Uh, well, some things just need to remain private! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Tom,
I'm taking a break from cutting up a tree. Last night, we had a pretty good storm. I went out back to watch the lightning and during one of the flashes, noticed that our Chinese Elm tree had blown over in the storm. No damage except for the tree. almost 40 ft tall or should I say short and getting shorter by the moment or at least when I get back to cutting it up.
About hot glue. I'm sure we all have stories about this wonderful medium, so I'll share mine: Recently I has some friends over and one spotted a cotton glove with what must have looked like the worst case of plastic warts. I was asked by these novices, " what the heck is this?". I told them it was a glove that I wear when using the hot glue gun and proceeded to tell them real story about the glove. And we all have done this. I think. While working with hot glue, I got some on my finger. Boy was it hot. Now you ask, what was my immediate reaction. Yup, you guessed it. PUT IT IN YOUR MOUTH TO COOL YOUR FINGER!!!! Well, we all the know what happened. Instead of getting only one blister, I got two. One on my finger and one on my mouth! Hence the glove. So-o-o, go buy yourself a cheap pair of cotton gloves and save your body parts for working on the layout.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by. I'll get some cotton gloves and I must say you are one brave soul to tell the finger in the mouth story!
The sad story about hot glue on your skin is there is no way to get it off at the time. I almost wanted to wipe it off with the other hand but like a dummy, I sat there and let it burn! Oh well, so today I'll update Howard Zane and Cliff Powers threads.
By the way, did you get any rain with the storm? I know you guys need it out there.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 27, 2014, 12:15:13 PM
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by. I'll get some cotton gloves and I must say you are one brave soul to tell the finger in the mouth story!
The sad story about hot glue on your skin is there is no way to get it off at the time. I almost wanted to wipe it off with the other hand but like a dummy, I sat there and let it burn! Oh well, so today I'll update Howard Zane and Cliff Powers threads.
By the way, did you get any rain with the storm? I know you guys need it out there.
Tom ;D
Tom,
I think the hot glue story is a lesson to be learned.
We did get some rain last night along with the wind. The wind is what knocked down the tree. Now I'm using the chain saw to reduce the tree to smaller bits. Today it is overcast which makes the tree work easier on this old man. The temperature is lower also so I continue to cut and stack the branches. Just taking a break for the moment. Even got some occasional sprinkles. We need a lot more rain than what we got last night. Well back to the tree.
I was going to suggest leather gloves for using the glue gun. If cotton works, it'll be more flexible. Thanks for the tip, Frank.
Jeff
Quote from: Erieman on July 27, 2014, 12:43:07 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 27, 2014, 12:15:13 PM
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by. I'll get some cotton gloves and I must say you are one brave soul to tell the finger in the mouth story!
The sad story about hot glue on your skin is there is no way to get it off at the time. I almost wanted to wipe it off with the other hand but like a dummy, I sat there and let it burn! Oh well, so today I'll update Howard Zane and Cliff Powers threads.
By the way, did you get any rain with the storm? I know you guys need it out there.
Tom ;D
Tom,
I think the hot glue story is a lesson to be learned.
Frank,
I've got a question! How come it is when we learn a lesson, it usually hurts? Never mind, the answer will probably hurt as well.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on July 27, 2014, 02:45:52 PM
I was going to suggest leather gloves for using the glue gun. If cotton works, it'll be more flexible. Thanks for the tip, Frank.
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
I think the cotton gloves will give us more flexibilityfor sure. Thanks for following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 28, 2014, 06:35:30 PM
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on July 27, 2014, 02:45:52 PM
I was going to suggest leather gloves for using the glue gun. If cotton works, it'll be more flexible. Thanks for the tip, Frank.
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
I think the cotton gloves will give us more flexibility for sure. Thanks for following along.
Tom ;D
Tom,
Learned the cotton glove trick from my plumber! ;D ;D ;D
Frank / Erieman
Great tip - cotton gloves are on my shopping list. I wounder if I should buy two pair - it's so much fun watching Wayne every time he gets near the hot glue gun ;) .
Quote from: S&S RR on July 28, 2014, 10:18:12 PM
Great tip - cotton gloves are on my shopping list. I wounder if I should buy two pair - it's so much fun watching Wayne every time he gets near the hot glue gun ;) .
John,
When I purchased the cotton gloves, Home Depot had them in a 6 pack. Well, I bought them thinking that's probably more than I need. NOT. Somehow I can find a right hand and a couple of left handed gloves. Since I am left handed, the right hand glove is the most important. You should see this glove. Nasty is an understatement. The rest seems to have disappeared. I'm sure Wayne would be very appreciative of your purchase. Burnt hands is nasty. And remember, if you burn your hand, DO NOT put it to your mouth to stop the heat. It doesn't work.
Frank / Erieman
My burned fingers are healing as well as can be expected. After the blisters broke and the first and second layers of skin came off, the area is now looking dark brown and black. I'm assuming that the scabs are next followed by whatever.
I now have cotton gloves in the hot glue gun box! Lesson learned and it appears to be a continuing type education. This is where my father would say, "It looks like you've been educated beyond the level of your intelligence"!
Okay, back to the layout update. I got part of the Southeast corner and East wall area cleaned out in order to build the benchwork for the staging area on the East side.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090814183854.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090814183910.jpeg)
Here I've placed two pieces of 2X8 1/2" three ply plywood on the floor to give me the look for the benchwork.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090814183941.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090814184006.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Fast forward and two sections of 2X8 ft. plywood benchwork are now in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090814184023.jpeg)
The track will round the corner and run behind this small cabinet I got from a friend many years ago. It will come out on the right and enter the staging area to enter the ovalix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090814184041.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090814184055.jpeg)
Now I have a little storage room under the staging area. Notice I didn't run the 2X2's to the floor. It wasn't necessary as they are still "tapconed" to the wall and very secure.
By not taking the 2X2's to the floor I have and extra 2" of storage space. Hey, two inches is better than nothing but now I can get my boxes flush to the wall.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090814191402.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Tom
I love the shelf full of yellow boxes - every layout needs one. The extra storage space is always needed - I like your design.
For the staging area I'm using ME #6 turnouts. You can see that the ladder track is in place and I'll be able to get 9 storage tracks in this area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090814184122.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090814184122.jpeg)
The length of space I have on this wall for staging is 35 feet!
I have devised a devious plan for the operators using any train from this area. It will require two operators to move certain "Named Trains" from here to the main line. I'll explain this later in the build!
Thanks for following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on August 09, 2014, 07:21:38 PM
Tom
I love the shelf full of yellow boxes - every layout needs one. The extra storage space is always needed - I like your design.
John,
Thanks for stopping by and we all love yellow boxes don't we? I must admit that two are empty as Reading Bob has built them for the layout!
I needed a little space for the cabinet but as you can see it was to tall to fit under that section. It is only 3" from the wall and the 3" is plenty of room for the train to pass behind it.
Tom ;D
Operators!?
Did he say operators?
As in OpSig?
As in the NMRA is coming to Orlando and this empire HAS TO BE on the layout tour?
Nope.
No pressure.
I mean, who wouldn't be honored to have some of the OTHER best modelers in the world visit your completed, landscaped, fully operational shrine to all that is holy in model railroading?
('Gnat put me up to this, Tom. I'm sorry.)
Chip Stevens
aka BandOGuy
Empire in transition
Tom...
It should be illegal for anyone to have that many unbuilt yellow boxes.
see ya
Bob
Tom, the layout sure is progressing nicely. I can't wait to see the next installment. If that Barnstead kit ever becomes to overwhelming I may know someone very interested.
Tom, you have made a lot of progress since Thursday when I was there. Now you will have some storage under the layout to move things around and out of your way. Looking good!!!!
Woo-hoo! We have vertical progress for a change. You must have grown tired of going around in circles. :D Great progress. I'm looking forward to seeing it.
Quote from: ACL1504 link=topic=53.msg13040#msg13040
color=#800080]I have devised a devious plan for the operators using any train from this area. It will require two operators to move certain "Named Trains" from here to the main line. [/color]
Tom ;D
Or, 3 SBG members with some guidance ;D
John
Tom,
Nice looking pictures. Great progress. I still can see the "cave" in the room. You sure have it stuffed with stuff. Not a lot of wiggle room. Progress is coming along. Are you going to work on the other two levels in the same area now or in the near future? Inquiring minds want to know. Your staging are is similar to my neighbors, except we installed an East bound and west bound year in about a one foot deep area. His yard is about 30 feet long and in some cases two trains are parked on the same track. That's serious staging. most of my trains are short, so my staging area is small. I do have one long track where I can park a 40 car train.
More pictures please. Opened the Blandings building this morning to see all the parts. WOW. Anyway, I put them back in the box for now. I have too much on my plate to get started now. I do look forward to the build!!!
Have a great weekend, my friend.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: S&S RR on August 09, 2014, 07:21:38 PM
Tom
I love the shelf full of yellow boxes - every layout needs one. The extra storage space is always needed - I like your design.
John,
Thanks for checking in. Yes, lots of yellow boxes I hope to open and get built one day! I'm using every available space without making it look to conjested, track wise that is!
HA!
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on August 09, 2014, 08:22:41 PM
Operators!?
Did he say operators?
As in OpSig?
As in the NMRA is coming to Orlando and this empire HAS TO BE on the layout tour?
Nope.
No pressure.
I mean, who wouldn't be honored to have some of the OTHER best modelers in the world visit your completed, landscaped, fully operational shrine to all that is holy in model railroading?
('Gnat put me up to this, Tom. I'm sorry.)
Chip Stevens
aka BandOGuy
Empire in transition
Vettelover Chip,
That's okay, Gman is welcome here! The operators won't be operators as such but just insert the word "train runners" and we'll go from there.
I have been approached by some to have the second level done and ready for viewing for the 2017 NMRA here in O'town. We'll see what happens.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on August 09, 2014, 08:32:21 PM
Tom...
It should be illegal for anyone to have that many unbuilt yellow boxes.
see ya
Bob
Bob,
It may be illegal in some states to have to many yellow boxes but here in Fl. it isn't! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) Now, let's get this straight. The yellow boxes were built by George Sellios but the contents of all but two of the boxes are yet to be built. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D Just messing with you!
Tom ;D
Bob
Quote from: coors2u on August 09, 2014, 09:34:51 PM
Tom, the layout sure is progressing nicely. I can't wait to see the next installment. If that Barnstead kit ever becomes to overwhelming I may know someone very interested.
Dustin,
Thanks, much appreciated. If the Barnstead templates and instructions will help, I'll send them! I do plan to use Barnstead Lumber on the layout.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on August 10, 2014, 04:24:47 AM
Tom, you have made a lot of progress since Thursday when I was there. Now you will have some storage under the layout to move things around and out of your way. Looking good!!!!
Bill my friend,
Yes, Saturday was very productive for me on the layout. I think I had a shot of "get 'er done" or something. May have been something in the H2O as well. Thanks for stopping by! I'll give you a call tomorrow - Tuesday looks good for lunch!
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on August 10, 2014, 09:07:16 AM
Woo-hoo! We have vertical progress for a change. You must have grown tired of going around in circles. :D Great progress. I'm looking forward to seeing it.
Bob,
I had to leave the ovalix for a few days as my head was going round and round. Horizontal progress is good for now. Thanks for stopping by and posting a comment.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on August 10, 2014, 09:22:34 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 link=topic=53.msg13040#msg13040
color=#800080]I have devised a devious plan for the operators using any train from this area. It will require two operators to move certain "Named Trains" from here to the main line. [/color]
Tom ;D
Or, 3 SBG members with some guidance ;D
John
John,
Yes, the SBG will have lots of fun with this one! Thanks for taking a look and posting!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on August 10, 2014, 01:08:11 PM
Tom,
Nice looking pictures. Great progress. I still can see the "cave" in the room. You sure have it stuffed with stuff. Not a lot of wiggle room. Progress is coming along. Are you going to work on the other two levels in the same area now or in the near future? Inquiring minds want to know. Your staging are is similar to my neighbors, except we installed an East bound and west bound year in about a one foot deep area. His yard is about 30 feet long and in some cases two trains are parked on the same track. That's serious staging. most of my trains are short, so my staging area is small. I do have one long track where I can park a 40 car train.
More pictures please. Opened the Blandings building this morning to see all the parts. WOW. Anyway, I put them back in the box for now. I have too much on my plate to get started now. I do look forward to the build!!!
Have a great weekend, my friend.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by and checking in. Yes, I have it stuffed with stuff but now that I have the BABE's stuff out, the rest is all mine! I really need to downsize my inventory.
I am considering working of the second level in this area but not the third.
The Blandings structure is quite the kit and I don't blame you for putting it back in the box. You never know what a Master Creations kit will bring your way! I never expected to get heavily involved in the MC Franz Faulk Brewery build. It took me three times the amount of time I planned on! Be sure you have lots of time when you start.
Great speaking with you yesterday!
Tom ;D
"I have devised a devious plan for the operators using any train from this area. It will require two operators to move certain "Named Trains" from here to the main line. I'll explain this later in the build!"
Will it make me more confused than I normally am?
UPDATE ON ACL1504 TOM
Hello everyone, my name is Pam, Tom's wife. I believe he refers to me on the forum as the "Babe". I haven't heard from Tom in several days. I know he had lunch with PennsyJ1, Bill Cutler, on Tuesday and I'm pretty sure he may have taken a phone call from Gregory DeMayo earlier today! I became very worried about his behavior. Many of you may not know Tom gave up Diet Pepsi August 1, 2014 and he has been very distant and cranky since.
I saw the lights on in the man cave and decided to check and see if he was still with us! I knocked on the door and received no answer. I thought I smelled smoke from some sort of electrical fire or short. I backed away from the door and called his friend Slim. I think he at times uses the AKA of Bill, Bill Satore, William S. or Owner of Microlumina. Upon speaking with Slim, he would only say is that he doesn't sell any LEDs that burn or short out! Okay, if you say so whatever your name is this month!
When I last spoke to Tom, he said he was going to the man cave to get some work done. I returned to the man cave with a key and let myself in. I then decided to call a couple other of Tom's friends. Reading Bob said he last saw Tom smelling some Floquil paint. Cuse, John Mancuso, said he last saw Tom when he gave him some extremely rare decals. Cuse got the decals from Bob Haydon and someone called the King.
Here is what I found when I opened the door to the train room!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150356.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150422.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150440.jpeg)
Continued -
Check beside the far end wall next to that oval shaped climbing thingee!
Last I saw, he had laid some plywood down so he'd have a clear spot to
take a nap!
If he's there, he's probly in need a Diet Pepsi transfusion!! ;D ;D ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150512.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150512.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150535.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150535.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150609.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150609.jpeg)
When I got this far in, I heard someone mumbling to themselves. I called to Tom and again got no answer. I backed up a little and called his name once again.
"TOM"?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150637.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150637.jpeg)
The mumblings continued and it was then I realized it was Tom, my ACL1504!
I found him under the layout or some kind of ovalix thing. I'm not sure if he was going under or coming out.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150706.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150706.jpeg)
After several minutes I got him to come out. He had this distant stare and was saying stuff like, FSM George, Floquil, RRkits, Jimmy's car wash, Doug Fos-Foscale, Expo '15, code 70, Fast Tracks, I, cork roadbed, burned fingers, more 1x4's, Gman, need, matte medium, SRMW, brass, to many passenger cars, Ledbetter, a, Xacto, Scenic Express, Walthers, hot glue, Dio Sol, no hand laid track, rail joiners, Erieman, NMRA 2017, damn, to much stuff, behind schedule, three levels, Smokey Bones BBQ, SS Ltd., Master Creations, not enough stuff, Diet, Scale Coat, CCK, Bober won't believe it, Pepsi ---------
Well, you all get the idea. We got Lil' Tommy out and opened a Diet Pepsi and let him take a good whiff! He perked up a little but was still in a daze. I grabbed a couple of Pentrex and Green Frog DVDs, got him in the house and in front of the TV! We expect him to be fully recovered in a day or two. In the mean time the Orlando Police Dept. arrived and declared the train room an official crime scene until further notice.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150731.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140814150731.jpeg)
I'll keep everyone updated. Thank You!
Babe :-*
Quote from: gnatshop on August 14, 2014, 04:07:03 PM
Check beside the far end wall next to that oval shaped climbing thingee!
Last I saw, he had laid some plywood down so he'd have a clear spot to
take a nap!
If he's there, he's probly in need a Diet Pepsi transfusion!! ;D ;D ;D
Gnatshop,
Thanks for the infomation. This is exactly where we found Lil' Tommy!
Babe :-*
are the decals ok?
:o
John
Quote from: Cuse on August 14, 2014, 04:25:12 PM
are the decals ok?
:o
John
John,
I'm sure they are. He keeps stuff like rare decals in the climate controlled vault!
Babe :-*
Oh my goodness.....just hold on Pam, I'll be right down to help Tom with the 12 step program for his Diet Pepsi withdrawals.
I'll call the SBG and we'll come up with a schedule so one of us is monitoring him at all times.
Not to worry, we'll get him thru this with minimal damage! ;)
Greg,
I really appreciate the help. You know Lil' Tommy, when he goes crazy like, he goes all out! He got on my last nerve this morning at breakfast. I asked the waitress to bring him a Diet Pepsi in an attempt to get him back to some sort normal behavior. As you know full well, nothing with him is ever normal! I guess you could say that normal is usually not normal around here. I think we live an alternate life as Blondie and Dagwood!
Babe :-*
Pam
I looks like date night Wednesday ran in to Thursday!! You two should not spend all day Thursday together like this. Look what happens. I am sure the both of you will be ok in the morning.
Bill
I bet, if they look behind that wall of Yellow Boxes, they'll find Jimmy Hoffa.
dave
Quote from: ACL1504 on August 14, 2014, 04:36:08 PM
Greg,
I really appreciate the help. You know Lil' Tommy, when he goes crazy like, he goes all out! He got on my last nerve this morning at breakfast. I asked the waitress to bring him a Diet Pepsi in an attempt to get him back to some sort normal behavior. As you know full well, nothing with him is ever normal! I guess you could say that normal is usually not normal around here. I think we live an alternate life as Blondie and Dagwood!
Babe :-*
Not a problem, glad to help!
Besides, as far as I'm concerened, we're normal and everyone else is bonkers! :P
(in an effort to keep out of trouble, this disclaimer - forum members included in the "we're normal") ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on August 14, 2014, 04:51:25 PM
Pam
I looks like date night Wednesday ran in to Thursday!! You two should not spend all day Thursday together like this. Look what happens. I am sure the both of you will be ok in the morning.
Bill
Bill,
Date night was pretty special and no Diet Pepsi! I'm okay now but Lil' Tommy is still in front of the TV! ;D ;D ;D ;D He should be normal, whatever normal is for him, in the morning.
Babe :-*
Quote from: deemery on August 14, 2014, 05:52:51 PM
I bet, if they look behind that wall of Yellow Boxes, they'll find Jimmy Hoffa.
dave
Dave,
Thanks for checking in! Actually, I'm afraid to look behind the yellow boxes. I'll get Lil' Tommy to do it in the morning. He probably has more trains behind the yellow boxes.
Babe :-*
Speaking of yellow boxes.....with all the stuff he has, Tom's man cave/train room might also be called an unlisted hobby shop! ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 15, 2014, 08:26:48 AM
Speaking of yellow boxes.....with all the stuff he has, Tom's man cave/train room might also be called an unlisted hobby shop! ;D
Greg,
I'm checking to see if he has anything new in here! For the past several years he only say, " No babe, that isn't new. I've had that for years."
Babe :-*
Quote from: ACL1504 on August 15, 2014, 08:38:54 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 15, 2014, 08:26:48 AM
Speaking of yellow boxes.....with all the stuff he has, Tom's man cave/train room might also be called an unlisted hobby shop! ;D
Greg,
I'm checking to see if he has anything new in here! For the past several years he only say, " No babe, that isn't new. I've had that for years."
Babe :-*
Babe,
You might want to keep an eye on the ovalix area.....I heard rumors that it might have been designed to keep the dancing girls (polite way to say strippers?) hidden in between parties! :o
Quote from: ACL1504 on August 15, 2014, 08:38:54 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 15, 2014, 08:26:48 AM
Speaking of yellow boxes.....with all the stuff he has, Tom's man cave/train room might also be called an unlisted hobby shop! ;D
Greg,
I'm checking to see if he has anything new in here! For the past several years he only say, " No babe, that isn't new. I've had that for years."
Babe :-*
Don't worry Pam. Anything 'new' that you don't recognize is probably something Tom is holding for either Greg or I. You know, stuff that we don't want Pegi or Eileen to know we bought. ;)
Quote from: ReadingBob on August 15, 2014, 09:31:46 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on August 15, 2014, 08:38:54 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 15, 2014, 08:26:48 AM
Speaking of yellow boxes.....with all the stuff he has, Tom's man cave/train room might also be called an unlisted hobby shop! ;D
Greg,
I'm checking to see if he has anything new in here! For the past several years he only say, " No babe, that isn't new. I've had that for years."
Babe :-*
Don't worry Pam. Anything 'new' that you don't recognize is probably something Tom is holding for either Greg or I. You know, stuff that we don't want Pegi or Eileen to know we bought. ;)
Good grief Bob.....don't give awa all our secrets. ;)
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 15, 2014, 09:25:05 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on August 15, 2014, 08:38:54 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 15, 2014, 08:26:48 AM
Speaking of yellow boxes.....with all the stuff he has, Tom's man cave/train room might also be called an unlisted hobby shop! ;D
Greg,
I'm checking to see if he has anything new in here! For the past several years he only say, " No babe, that isn't new. I've had that for years."
Babe :-*
Babe,
You might want to keep an eye on the ovalix area.....I heard rumors that it might have been designed to keep the dancing girls (polite way to say strippers?) hidden in between parties! :o
Greg,
I told Lil' Tommy if he thinks he can do better than me, go for it and enjoy! But understand this, don't come back!
Babe :-*
Quote from: ReadingBob on August 15, 2014, 09:31:46 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on August 15, 2014, 08:38:54 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 15, 2014, 08:26:48 AM
Speaking of yellow boxes.....with all the stuff he has, Tom's man cave/train room might also be called an unlisted hobby shop! ;D
Greg,
I'm checking to see if he has anything new in here! For the past several years he only say, " No babe, that isn't new. I've had that for years."
Babe :-*
Don't worry Pam. Anything 'new' that you don't recognize is probably something Tom is holding for either Greg or I. You know, stuff that we don't want Pegi or Eileen to know we bought. ;)
Bob and Greg,
Since you brought up this point, I demand to know just what you both have of Lil' Tommy's that he doesn't want me to know about! What new stuff are you holding for him?
Babe :-*
Hey all,
I appreciate my Babe filling in for me but now I've changed the password so she can't find out what ya'll are holding for me.
I'm going to cut back on the Diet Pepsi so I don't have another missing three days.
I'm almost back to normal!
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on August 15, 2014, 10:04:37 AM
Quote from: ReadingBob on August 15, 2014, 09:31:46 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on August 15, 2014, 08:38:54 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 15, 2014, 08:26:48 AM
Speaking of yellow boxes.....with all the stuff he has, Tom's man cave/train room might also be called an unlisted hobby shop! ;D
Greg,
I'm checking to see if he has anything new in here! For the past several years he only say, " No babe, that isn't new. I've had that for years."
Babe :-*
Don't worry Pam. Anything 'new' that you don't recognize is probably something Tom is holding for either Greg or I. You know, stuff that we don't want Pegi or Eileen to know we bought. ;)
Bob and Greg,
Since you brought up this point, I demand to know just what you both have of Lil' Tommy's that he doesn't want me to know about! What new stuff are you holding for him?
Babe :-*
Babe,
I know nothing.....nothing! :)
Regarding the response about alleged new kits lurking about...........
This is the same line that correlates to the size of a now released fish, after the trip. And...... when two chess players sit down for a game............... they are required to brag of how long it has been since they last played.
All modelers have shortness of memory when confronted with the facts regarding a new acquisition. It's not lying .....
With holding the truth is not a lie. For example......... you come to a operations session with a fresh haircut from earlier in the day that went really bad............... no one is required to point out to you that you have one ear higher than the other. With holding the obvious is not a lie.
Similarly............. how long that yellow box has or hasn't been under the bench is not the issue. The fact that it is there is enough ...........
A closing remark about the haircut........... the crowd I hang with would have a race who could comment on the questionable haircut first ! ! ! ! Some friends ............ huh? ? ? /
see ya
Bob
Bob,
I agree with your thought process! ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Tom.....
Here is another example of with holding information........
A guy walks into a division meet with a REALLY ugly Don Ho Hawaiian floral print shirt. It is not incumbent n us that we point out to him that his mother dresses him funny !
It might be fun ............but...........but it's not required ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
New?
New is relative. My definition of new is probably different than yours.
Look at Facebook. What's "new" on there has been recycled for days.
We have a new grand daughter. But how can that be when we don't have any old grand daughters for comparison?
I remember a certain politician who wanted a definition of what is is.
What's new? If its been there long enough to explain it, is it still new?
New relative to when? The minute you walked through the door? New since the last time you were here? But when was that?
Have I purchased it since you bought your last dress or pair of shoes? If not, it must not be new.
Time for Happy Hour. No Diet Pepsi's for that, trust me. Maybe I'll have some new definitions of new when I get back. 8)
I'm "new" to all this! What I do know is that not having a Diet Pepsi, now for 15 days, isn't "new"; however it is getting "old"!
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Tom........
No diet Pepsi for two weeks ! ! ! ! Did some one forget to send me the Lent memo ? ? ? ?
see ya
Bob
Y'all are giving me a big headache..... and I'm more confused than usual.....Pegi, get the icepack ::)
Quote from: bparrish on August 15, 2014, 06:18:24 PM
Tom........
No diet Pepsi for two weeks ! ! ! ! Did some one forget to send me the Lent memo ? ? ? ?
see ya
Bob
Bob,
My wife said I needed to stop drinking Diet Pepsi as the Aspartame was affecting my memory. I can't remember if it did or didn't! I do know that after two weeks I feel better.
Aspartame is an artificial, non-saccharide sweetener used as a sugar substitute in some foods and beverages. In the European Union, it is codified as E951. Aspartame is a methyl ester of the aspartic acid/phenylalanine dipeptide.
I'm not sure I remember what it taste like.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 15, 2014, 06:48:44 PM
Y'all are giving me a big headache..... and I'm more confused than usual.....Pegi, get the icepack ::)
Ah, a headache - another side effect of drinking Diet sodas! Don't tell Bober I'm going cold turkey!
Tom ;D
The ultimate 'NEW' will be when I stop interruptin' seruss threads!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on August 15, 2014, 07:41:07 PM
The ultimate 'NEW' will be when I stop interruptin' seruss threads!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Aren't you then afraid of becoming old hat?
Quote from: BandOGuy on August 15, 2014, 08:26:59 PM
Aren't you then afraid of becoming old hat?
No worry - I wear all kinds of hats - old, new, tacky, facetious, and my favorite 'Ain't it 5:00 yet?' hat!! ;D ;D ;D
Li'l Tommy keeps me on his
BOLO list!!! 8) 8)
Quote from: gnatshop on August 15, 2014, 07:41:07 PM
The ultimate 'NEW' will be when I stop interruptin' seruss threads!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
That ain't nothin new Gman! And, you are on my BOLO list!
Tom ;D
Those Arkansas boys are on everybodies BOLO list! ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 16, 2014, 01:43:56 PM
Those Arkansas boys are on everybodies BOLO list! ;D
I may be wrong but I bet Gman was born on the FBI's top 10 list!
Tom ;D
Okay, back to modeling, er, I mean benchwork. I was laying around feeling a bit languorous this morning. I decided to work on the benchwork in an attempt to shake it off. Well, it worked. The staging level on the East side of the room is now complete.
Here is what I did this afternoon.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163555.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163555.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163640.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163640.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163659.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163659.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Let me back up a little here and show you what I did last Saturday. I have two small cabinets I got from Ikea. I use them to keep my scratch building supplies in some sort of order, it that's possible.
I built the benchwork aroud the two cabinets and I made it where I can remove them if needed. They come from Ikea with rollers if you choose to install them, I did.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163904.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163904.jpeg)
As you can see the benchwork around and over the cabinets even supports my fan.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163618.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163618.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I've also been doing a little track work on the staging area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163808.jpeg)
And, I cleaned up the top of the benchwork.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163828.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163843.jpeg)
Now I have a little more storage area under the benchwork to store more of my stash! However, it just has a tub of power tools at this time.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163923.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Here is a view when entering the room.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914163945.jpeg)
Of course I need a little sign to let everyone know where they are.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914164005.jpeg)
View of room with the ACL sign in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914164026.jpeg)
I have this sign on the opposite side.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070914174229.jpeg)
Quote from: ACL1504 on September 07, 2014, 04:48:15 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 16, 2014, 01:43:56 PM
Those Arkansas boys are on everybodies BOLO list! ;D
I may be wrong but I bet Gman was born on the FBI's top 10 list! Tom ;D
That's all due to my family's reputation (particularly on the Ledbetter side)!!
The FBI main office has a huge display dedicated to the state of the art "Ledbetter Stills"!
However, now-adays, they're devoted to producin' A&I (well, except for the occasional test sip
before addin' the ink)!!! ;D ;D ;D
Now we know why Gnat's always in trouble.....good work on the benchwork Tom!
Will that yard be done when the AS hopper finally rolls home?
dave
Tom
The bench work is looking great and you can never have enough storage. Looks like both of us are going to be spending a lot of time doing track work this winter.
Looking great Tom.
Wow...looking good Tom. Sorry I couldn't stop by Friday. It was suddenly raining headaches for me.
John
One last question - I wonder if that fan on the bench was blowin' his hair around? ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom, it is coming along nicely. Now I can see and understand your concerns about storage space. Time to and a 2nd floor loft for storage and viewing. ;D ;D
Bill
Hi Tom,
WOW (and I don't mean the decoder ;) )! That's a lot of progress in one session. :D Looking good!
Quote from: gnatshop on September 07, 2014, 07:07:53 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on September 07, 2014, 04:48:15 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 16, 2014, 01:43:56 PM
Those Arkansas boys are on everybodies BOLO list! ;D
I may be wrong but I bet Gman was born on the FBI's top 10 list! Tom ;D
That's all due to my family's reputation (particularly on the Ledbetter side)!!
The FBI main office has a huge display dedicated to the state of the art "Ledbetter Stills"!
However, now-adays, they're devoted to producin' A&I (well, except for the occasional test sip
before addin' the ink)!!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Good to hear from ya! I'll say one thing, at least you are honest about your heritage. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D Mine ain't much better.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on September 07, 2014, 07:30:40 PM
Now we know why Gnat's always in trouble.....good work on the benchwork Tom!
Greg,
Thanks, much appreciated. I won't be able to get back to it until next week.
Tom ;D
Quote from: deemery on September 07, 2014, 08:10:23 PM
Will that yard be done when the AS hopper finally rolls home?
dave
Dave,
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, it's a yard of sorts but mainly a staging area. I need to try and get back on the other forum and find my AS and get my AS over here on the better forum. It will probably be done by the time I get signed onto the other place, if ever.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on September 07, 2014, 08:44:56 PM
Tom
The bench work is looking great and you can never have enough storage. Looks like both of us are going to be spending a lot of time doing track work this winter.
John,
I appreciate you stopping by. I got spoiled as I had all kinds of storage room on the old layout. Now I'm learning to live with what I have and can't believe how much crap I've thrown out.
I'll be laying track this winter, next winter and the winter after that. But it has to get done by 2017! Know what I mean?
Tom ;D
Quote from: coors2u on September 07, 2014, 09:28:57 PM
Looking great Tom.
Dustin,
Thank you, much appreciated and thanks for stopping in to check out my progress.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on September 07, 2014, 09:41:09 PM
Wow...looking good Tom. Sorry I couldn't stop by Friday. It was suddenly raining headaches for me.
John
John,
Thanks very much and it worked out as I had a procedure that morning that put me in bed all that day! Hope you headaches and now gone.
I'll be ready for your loco in the next two weeks.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on September 07, 2014, 09:46:14 PM
One last question - I wonder if that fan on the bench was blowin' his hair around? ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
I have that answer. Yes, it blew all five of them! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on September 08, 2014, 04:42:59 AM
Tom, it is coming along nicely. Now I can see and understand your concerns about storage space. Time to and a 2nd floor loft for storage and viewing. ;D ;D
Bill
Bill,
Thanks for checking in and yes, I would love to add a second story for storage. However, it would be cheaper to remove this building and start over than to add a second story to this one. And, you know it's the truth.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on September 08, 2014, 07:54:38 AM
Hi Tom,
WOW (and I don't mean the decoder ;) )! That's a lot of progress in one session. :D Looking good!
Bob,
Yep, I had a sudden burst of energy Sunday and got alot done. Thanks for stopping by on Saturday and today. I'm getting a little closer to getting a train around the room without carrying it. LOL.
Tom ;D
Really moving along Tom, looking great.
8)
Quote from: ak-milw on September 08, 2014, 07:27:29 PM
Really moving along Tom, looking great. 8)
Don't give him the big head too quick - he's still got a lot of Diet Pepsi's to swig to get to where he wants to be!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom, if you're having trouble logging into Jimmy's old forum, I'd be happy to post something for you. For some reason, it's never given me an argument.
Tom,
I've been watching from San Diego. Just got back tonight. Attended the NMRA Regional convention. Saw a couple of wonderful layouts. Gave two clinics. Took first place on "Chester Station". Dragging my butt, but had lots of fun.
Your progress is really coming along and it is looking spectacular. Lots of work, but you are progressing very well. Designing Whitman Station so I can bring it to the NMRA National convention in Orlando 2017. Just a short note because I'm kinda tired from the drive. Must be getting old. Have a great week and post more pictures when you can.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: ak-milw on September 08, 2014, 07:27:29 PM
Really moving along Tom, looking great.
8)
Andy,
Thanks for checking in, much appreciated. Looks like I'll be laying lots of track in the next couple of years.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on September 08, 2014, 10:10:41 PM
Quote from: ak-milw on September 08, 2014, 07:27:29 PM
Really moving along Tom, looking great. 8)
Don't give him the big head too quick - he's still got a lot of Diet Pepsi's to swig to get to where he wants to be!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
I've only had 2 Diet Pepsi in the last 38 days. I guess I fell off the wagon.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jbvb on September 08, 2014, 10:28:16 PM
Tom, if you're having trouble logging into Jimmy's old forum, I'd be happy to post something for you. For some reason, it's never given me an argument.
James,
Thanks for the offer. I'll be out of pocket for the next week. If you want, find out where my AS Hopper is and have that person hold it until I decide what to do! Thanks very much!
I love this place.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on September 08, 2014, 10:57:47 PM
Tom,
I've been watching from San Diego. Just got back tonight. Attended the NMRA Regional convention. Saw a couple of wonderful layouts. Gave two clinics. Took first place on "Chester Station". Dragging my butt, but had lots of fun.
Your progress is really coming along and it is looking spectacular. Lots of work, but you are progressing very well. Designing Whitman Station so I can bring it to the NMRA National convention in Orlando 2017. Just a short note because I'm kinda tired from the drive. Must be getting old. Have a great week and post more pictures when you can.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
No doubt in any of our minds you wouldn't bring home the bacon for the station. My time is short as well, The Babe and I have plans for the next week so I'll check with you then.
Tom ;D
Atta boy Tom.....! 8)
Hi there,
Tom,nice progress on your layout.Keep it going...
Cheers,Chris
Tom
You have been working hard - nice progress!
Quote from: ACL1504 on September 09, 2014, 07:35:07 AM
Quote from: gnatshop on September 08, 2014, 10:10:41 PM
Quote from: ak-milw on September 08, 2014, 07:27:29 PM
Really moving along Tom, looking great. 8)
Don't give him the big head too quick - he's still got a lot of Diet Pepsi's to swig to get to where he wants to be!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
I've only had 2 Diet Pepsi in the last 38 days. I guess I fell off the wagon.
Tom ;D
This is just wrong. How did this happen? Do I need to send an emergency case of "Diet Pepsi" your direction? You can't leave me as the only "Diet Pepsi" drinker on the forum Tom!
;D ;D ;D
Actually, I fully understand. I am trying to cut down on the diet pepsi as well. You just seem to be doing a lot better job of it than I
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on September 14, 2014, 01:48:23 PM
I've only had 2 Diet Pepsi in the last 38 days. I guess I fell off the wagon.
Tom ;D
This is just wrong. How did this happen? Do I need to send an emergency case of "Diet Pepsi" your direction? You can't leave me as the only "Diet Pepsi" drinker on the forum Tom!
;D ;D ;D
Actually, I fully understand. I am trying to cut down on the diet pepsi as well. You just seem to be doing a lot better job of it than I
Medical experts have reported that they've identified a chronic case of DPD (Diet Pepsi Deprivation) in Florida!
Arrangements are being made to ship in massive amounts of the only known antidote:
Quote from: gnatshop on September 15, 2014, 07:03:28 PM
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on September 14, 2014, 01:48:23 PM
I've only had 2 Diet Pepsi in the last 38 days. I guess I fell off the wagon.
Tom ;D
This is just wrong. How did this happen? Do I need to send an emergency case of "Diet Pepsi" your direction? You can't leave me as the only "Diet Pepsi" drinker on the forum Tom!
;D ;D ;D
Actually, I fully understand. I am trying to cut down on the diet pepsi as well. You just seem to be doing a lot better job of it than I
Medical experts have reported that they've identified a chronic case of DPD (Diet Pepsi Deprivation) in Florida!
Arrangements are being made to ship in massive amounts of the only known antidote:
My GOD! It's even worse than the EBOLA outbreak!
Tom, Dustin (coors2u on Jimmy's old forum) reported last Tuesday that he had the AS hopper, but I haven't seen the pictures he promised yet.
Quote from: GPdemayo on September 09, 2014, 04:52:24 PM
Atta boy Tom.....! 8)
Thanks Greg, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on September 09, 2014, 10:03:27 PM
Hi there,
Tom,nice progress on your layout.Keep it going...
Cheers,Chris
Chris,
Thank you, I was out of town when you posted. I appreciate you stopping by!
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on September 10, 2014, 08:50:02 AM
Tom
You have been working hard - nice progress!
John,
Yes, we both have been busy little beavers. Your roundhouse looks fantastic. Very well done John.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on September 14, 2014, 01:48:23 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on September 09, 2014, 07:35:07 AM
Quote from: gnatshop on September 08, 2014, 10:10:41 PM
Quote from: ak-milw on September 08, 2014, 07:27:29 PM
Really moving along Tom, looking great. 8)
Don't give him the big head too quick - he's still got a lot of Diet Pepsi's to swig to get to where he wants to be!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
I've only had 2 Diet Pepsi in the last 38 days. I guess I fell off the wagon.
Tom ;D
This is just wrong. How did this happen? Do I need to send an emergency case of "Diet Pepsi" your direction? You can't leave me as the only "Diet Pepsi" drinker on the forum Tom!
;D ;D ;D
Actually, I fully understand. I am trying to cut down on the diet pepsi as well. You just seem to be doing a lot better job of it than I
Cousin Brucie,
So nice to see you. I hope all is well in your necdk of the woods.
Here's the Diet Pepsi issue. I started having headaches on a regular basis for no apparant reason. My Babe has been after me for years to stop. I mentioned the headeaches to my family doc and he said if I'm going to drink sodas to drink the regular sodas and not the diet. On
August 1, 2014 and I went cold turkey until Sept. 1, 2014 w/o one. I've had four Diet Pepsis since 8/1/2014 and no headaches.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on September 15, 2014, 07:03:28 PM
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on September 14, 2014, 01:48:23 PM
I've only had 2 Diet Pepsi in the last 38 days. I guess I fell off the wagon.
Tom ;D
This is just wrong. How did this happen? Do I need to send an emergency case of "Diet Pepsi" your direction? You can't leave me as the only "Diet Pepsi" drinker on the forum Tom!
;D ;D ;D
Actually, I fully understand. I am trying to cut down on the diet pepsi as well. You just seem to be doing a lot better job of it than I
Medical experts have reported that they've identified a chronic case of DPD (Diet Pepsi Deprivation) in Florida!
Arrangements are being made to ship in massive amounts of the only known antidote:
Gman,
That Diet Pepsi train dropped of a six pack just last week. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: jbvb on September 22, 2014, 08:59:41 AM
Tom, Dustin (coors2u on Jimmy's old forum) reported last Tuesday that he had the AS hopper, but I haven't seen the pictures he promised yet.
James,
Thanks for the update. I'm in read mode only on the mrrforums site. I'm going to try one more time to get signed up and then bring the car over here.
Tom ;D
I got a little more work done on the lower lever staging. I moved to the computer side and built the bench work around the comp. desk.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250914181404.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250914181422.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250914181448.jpeg)
More in a few.
Also this past week I went to Ikea and purchased another small six drawer cabinet for my paints. I got it together and gathered up all the paint I could find that wasn't already on the workbench.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250914181514.jpeg)
I then finished the bench work and installed the small cabinet under the benchwork as I did the other two.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250914181555.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250914181614.jpeg)
More in a few.
I have plenty of room for the track behind the comp..
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250914181635.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250914181659.jpeg)
I have about 90% of the paints in the small six drawer cabinet. The bottom is all Scalecoat for painting brass and the drawer above that is a few cans os spray paint.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250914181813.jpeg)
More in a few.
The rest is all Floquil. The boxes of Floquil are all 2nd and 3rd back up bottles.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250914181834.jpeg)
The rest or top three drawers are all Floquil, opened and unopened.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250914181901.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250914181920.jpeg)
I need the Floquil as I have lots of structures to build.
Tom ;D
I love seein' multiple accomplishments in short order - the sawdust is flyin' again, there's a Diet
Pepsi sittin' in the work area, and drool is runnin' down my chin when I look at the paint drawers!
The word 'Hoarder' comes to mind!! :'( :'( :'(
But, I ain't never tried paintin' with those 12oz. bottles of W??? Farms!!!
And that piece of track layin' behind the computer has been out in the Floridy sun too long -
it looks warped like a big part of the population down there!!! :o :o :o :o
Ahh, no - I really loved it while I was down there, but the warped comment still stands!!!
Tom , looks like steady progress, just might be a little hard getting threw that door!! ;D
8)
Do I see track bus wires strung before the deck is even in? That's an organized man!!
Looks good...John
So, what have you been doing while you're resting yourself? ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on September 25, 2014, 05:36:44 PM
Quote from: jbvb on September 22, 2014, 08:59:41 AM
Tom, Dustin (coors2u on Jimmy's old forum) reported last Tuesday that he had the AS hopper, but I haven't seen the pictures he promised yet.
James,
Thanks for the update. I'm in read mode only on the mrrforums site. I'm going to try one more time to get signed up and then bring the car over here.
Tom ;D
I can still sign in over there. Next time I'm down I'll log in and you can post under my profile if you'd like. :D
Wow! That's a lot of progress since I was down there last week. I need to make a return trip to that SW1500 another test run to make sure it was fixed right. :D
Quote from: ReadingBob on September 26, 2014, 08:55:10 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on September 25, 2014, 05:36:44 PM
Quote from: jbvb on September 22, 2014, 08:59:41 AM
Tom, Dustin (coors2u on Jimmy's old forum) reported last Tuesday that he had the AS hopper, but I haven't seen the pictures he promised yet.
James,
Thanks for the update. I'm in read mode only on the mrrforums site. I'm going to try one more time to get signed up and then bring the car over here.
Tom ;D
I can still sign in over there. Next time I'm down I'll log in and you can post under my profile if you'd like. :D
Wow! That's a lot of progress since I was down there last week. I need to make a return trip to that SW1500 another test run to make sure it was fixed right. :D
Keep a sharp lookout for the blue smoke! ;D
Tom ...
For what they think those little jars are worth you need to take a rider on your home owners policy.
See ya
Bob
Quote from: gnatshop on September 25, 2014, 07:20:54 PM
I love seein' multiple accomplishments in short order - the sawdust is flyin' again, there's a Diet
Pepsi sittin' in the work area, and drool is runnin' down my chin when I look at the paint drawers!
The word 'Hoarder' comes to mind!! :'( :'( :'(
But, I ain't never tried paintin' with those 12oz. bottles of W??? Farms!!!
And that piece of track layin' behind the computer has been out in the Floridy sun too long -
it looks warped like a big part of the population down there!!! :o :o :o :o
Ahh, no - I really loved it while I was down there, but the warped comment still stands!!!
Gman,
Good to see you again. Believe it or not the Diet Pepsi has lasted me three days. I just keep putting it back in the frig.
We Florida Crackers aren't a bad sort.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ak-milw on September 25, 2014, 07:46:37 PM
Tom , looks like steady progress, just might be a little hard getting threw that door!! ;D
8)
Andy,
Thanks for checking in and yes, there is no getting through that one door. It's officially blocked off having been secured by the Atlantic and Southern RR.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on September 25, 2014, 07:51:45 PM
Do I see track bus wires strung before the deck is even in? That's an organized man!!
Looks good...John
John,
Appreciate you stopping by. Yes, the buss wires were in place prior to the decking. As I get older, I start to think of stuff that will later save my back. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on September 26, 2014, 08:25:40 AM
So, what have you been doing while you're resting yourself? ;D
Greg,
You know for a fact I go to work to rest. A shade tree here or there. Or a trip to Taveres.
Tom ;D
I can still sign in over there. Next time I'm down I'll log in and you can post under my profile if you'd like. :D
Wow! That's a lot of progress since I was down there last week. I need to make a return trip to that SW1500 another test run to make sure it was fixed right. :D
Reading Bob,
As they say on the Price is Right, "Come on down"! You can sign in on the other forum as I try to burn another Reading switcher on the dreaded ovalix. The Judge and I will be here most of the day!
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on September 26, 2014, 09:57:32 AM
Tom ...
For what they think those little jars are worth you need to take a rider on your home owners policy.
See ya
Bob
Bob,
Can you believe the price of Floquil just prior to folding? My first bottle cost me $1.09 and the last few were $5.25!
I do have insurance, an alarm on the train building and I carry guns!
Tom ;D
I got a little more work done on the bench work this afternoon. And, my Babe made a suggestion in that I should get another one of the small white drawer cabinets. So, the Judge and I went to Ikea and got one. We put it together in about 20 minutes and in no time had it under the bench work.
We also made a small area under the bench work for the trash bin.
The decking isn't yet screwed to the frame work. I'm building a small two shelf area in this 8ft. section to store the brass loco boxes. Hopefully I'll have more photos in the coming week.
As you can see I'm recycling some of the old plywood from the previous layout.
Yes, John, the buss wires are installed here as well.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270914180452.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270914180514.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270914180534.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270914180557.jpeg)
Tom ;D
By the way, the wall socket and switch you see, is there for a reason. The simple reason is the fact that behind the open cabinet a wall switch is located. I ran a wire from the wall socket into a light switch and then to a new wall socket. The new switch and socket are now on the bench work. I used the new socket today for the power tools. I had no access to the socket behind the cabinet.
Quote from: ACL1504 on September 27, 2014, 08:39:38 AM
I can still sign in over there. Next time I'm down I'll log in and you can post under my profile if you'd like. :D
Wow! That's a lot of progress since I was down there last week. I need to make a return trip to that SW1500 another test run to make sure it was fixed right. :D
Reading Bob,
As they say on the Price is Right, "Come on down"! You can sign in on the other forum as I try to burn another Reading switcher on the dreaded ovalix. The Judge and I will be here most of the day!
Tom ;D
Sorry I couldn't make it down today Tom but thanks for the invite. Next weekend the wife and I are doing the B&B thing but I'll check in with you the following weekend to see if you're going to be around.
It looks like you're really making a lot of progress. :D I like the idea of moving the socket to an accessible area on the front of the bench work. Very clever.
Quote from: ReadingBob on September 27, 2014, 06:35:31 PM
I like the idea of moving the socket to an accessible area on the front of the bench work. Very clever.
You should like that idea - Tom's other alternative was to appoint a "
special friend" to crawl under the benchwork
to plug and un-plug schtuff!!! ;D ;D ;D
Another opportunity for the rest of the SBG to fight over! ;) ;) ;)
Quote from: gnatshop on September 27, 2014, 07:16:19 PM
Quote from: ReadingBob on September 27, 2014, 06:35:31 PM
I like the idea of moving the socket to an accessible area on the front of the bench work. Very clever.
You should like that idea - Tom's other alternative was to appoint a "special friend" to crawl under the benchwork
to plug and un-plug schtuff!!! ;D ;D ;D
Another opportunity for the rest of the SBG to fight over! ;) ;) ;)
I nominate Bill.....the new SBG guy-in-training should have the honors!
Hi there,
wow,a lot of progress is going on.Very nice solution with those cabinets....
Cheers,Chris
Good Morning Tom,
Looking good. You are making quite a bit of progress. Looks like you are almost done with the lower level ( benchwork that is) I noticed in one of the recent photos that a carpet seam is showing. what is with that? That's not like you. Really impressed with your cabinet purchases. now I know who to turn to if I need any paint!!! Looking real good my friend, but I need to see more pictures. It looks like you should be close to completing the lower loop benchwork. It must be difficult to work with all that "stuff" in the center aisle.
I put Whitman Station build aside to start SRMW O.V. Hooker building. It is the last main building in Chester. I am building this building and a tower to complete the scene, then it will be on to trees with the help of John and Wayne when they come out here early next year. Plenty to do here as you can well imagine. Well, I need to get back to a small yard project. Keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: ReadingBob on September 27, 2014, 06:35:31 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on September 27, 2014, 08:39:38 AM
I can still sign in over there. Next time I'm down I'll log in and you can post under my profile if you'd like. :D
Wow! That's a lot of progress since I was down there last week. I need to make a return trip to that SW1500 another test run to make sure it was fixed right. :D
Reading Bob,
As they say on the Price is Right, "Come on down"! You can sign in on the other forum as I try to burn another Reading switcher on the dreaded ovalix. The Judge and I will be here most of the day!
Tom ;D
Sorry I couldn't make it down today Tom but thanks for the invite. Next weekend the wife and I are doing the B&B thing but I'll check in with you the following weekend to see if you're going to be around.
It looks like you're really making a lot of progress. :D I like the idea of moving the socket to an accessible area on the front of the bench work. Very clever.
Bob,
No problem, come by anytime! Give me a call if you decide to come by on Thursday prior to bowling.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on September 27, 2014, 07:16:19 PM
Quote from: ReadingBob on September 27, 2014, 06:35:31 PM
I like the idea of moving the socket to an accessible area on the front of the bench work. Very clever.
You should like that idea - Tom's other alternative was to appoint a "special friend" to crawl under the benchwork
to plug and un-plug schtuff!!! ;D ;D ;D
Another opportunity for the rest of the SBG to fight over! ;) ;) ;)
Gman,
Good to see you again so soon. I would never ask a friend to do something I wasn't willing to do myself. Well, usually never that is!
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on September 28, 2014, 09:09:50 AM
Quote from: gnatshop on September 27, 2014, 07:16:19 PM
Quote from: ReadingBob on September 27, 2014, 06:35:31 PM
I like the idea of moving the socket to an accessible area on the front of the bench work. Very clever.
You should like that idea - Tom's other alternative was to appoint a "special friend" to crawl under the benchwork
to plug and un-plug schtuff!!! ;D ;D ;D
Another opportunity for the rest of the SBG to fight over! ;) ;) ;)
I nominate Bill.....the new SBG guy-in-training should have the honors!
Gregory,
Refer to the post above this one!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on September 28, 2014, 09:51:15 AM
Hi there,
wow,a lot of progress is going on.Very nice solution with those cabinets....
Cheers,Chris
Hey Chris,
Thanks very much. The small cabinets have really saved me alot of work and they hold much more than I ever thought they would.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on September 28, 2014, 10:15:13 AM
Good Morning Tom,
Looking good. You are making quite a bit of progress. Looks like you are almost done with the lower level ( benchwork that is) I noticed in one of the recent photos that a carpet seam is showing. what is with that? That's not like you. Really impressed with your cabinet purchases. now I know who to turn to if I need any paint!!! Looking real good my friend, but I need to see more pictures. It looks like you should be close to completing the lower loop benchwork. It must be difficult to work with all that "stuff" in the center aisle.
I put Whitman Station build aside to start SRMW O.V. Hooker building. It is the last main building in Chester. I am building this building and a tower to complete the scene, then it will be on to trees with the help of John and Wayne when they come out here early next year. Plenty to do here as you can well imagine. Well, I need to get back to a small yard project. Keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
Afternoon Frank,
Seems like you and I are two busy for the forum but it keeps me going. I have lots of paint @ only $12.00 a bottle, a real bargin. I've fixed the rug. It got pushed over itself as I was building the little shelf. I do have more pictures and will post them soon.
Tom ;D
Well, I finally finished the lower level staging benchwork. I set a personal goal of getting this benchwork finished by the end of Sept. and I did finish it on the afternoon of Sept. 28.
I also have been going through the brass and getting them out of the storage boxes and back under the layout. The same applies for the Atheran/Bev-Bel cars. I'm gong through and making a decision as to what stays and what goes.
My fingers have a sore throat so I'll let the pictures do the talking for me. Thanks to all who may be following along. I hope to finish the track work on the staging level in the next few weeks.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-011014165112.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-011014165013.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-011014164954.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-011014164847.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-011014165140.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-011014164935.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-011014164916.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-011014165034.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-011014165051.jpeg)
Wow! What organization and progress. I see level two starting to peek out from the ovalix. :D Keep up the great work Tom. :D :D :D
Quote from: ReadingBob on October 01, 2014, 06:14:19 PM
Wow! What organization and progress. I see level two starting to peek out from the ovalix. :D Keep up the great work Tom. :D :D :D
Bob,
Thanks very much. Yes. level two is calling my name. I can't wait to get back into structure building and scenery.
I'm also starting a thread on Cuse's little loco. I'm a busy guy these days.
Tom ;D
The only thing that comes out of Arkansas is "GOOLLEE, GEE!!".
That o'le Floridy Cracker is purty durn talented!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Mr. Tom,
There is room beginning to develop to move around with the storage space being used. Now the fun starts with all that tack to be put down for that staging level. I know you can't wait to make the first run completely around the staging level ;D ;D.
Looking good ,have fun!!!
Bill
Quote from: gnatshop on October 01, 2014, 11:58:43 PM
The only thing that comes out of Arkansas is "GOOLLEE, GEE!!".
That o'le Floridy Cracker is purty durn talented!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Great to see you my Arkie friend. I'm not quite sure you mean I have any talent, which I don't, but I am verra much a Flroidy Cracker. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on October 02, 2014, 04:12:31 AM
Mr. Tom,
There is room beginning to develop to move around with the storage space being used. Now the fun starts with all that tack to be put down for that staging level. I know you can't wait to make the first run completely around the staging level ;D ;D .
Looking good ,have fun!!!
Bill
Bill,
Yes, I'm getting to the point in this stage of the game to at least go down each side without turning sideways to do so! And, yes, I can't wait to get someting going in one direction without also having to stop and back up. I'll see you Saturday morning, possibily.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 01, 2014, 04:56:27 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on September 28, 2014, 09:09:50 AM
Quote from: gnatshop on September 27, 2014, 07:16:19 PM
Quote from: ReadingBob on September 27, 2014, 06:35:31 PM
I like the idea of moving the socket to an accessible area on the front of the bench work. Very clever.
You should like that idea - Tom's other alternative was to appoint a "special friend" to crawl under the benchwork
to plug and un-plug schtuff!!! ;D ;D ;D
Another opportunity for the rest of the SBG to fight over! ;) ;) ;)
I nominate Bill.....the new SBG guy-in-training should have the honors!
Gregory,
Refer to the post above this one!
Tom ;D
Thanks Tom..... ::)
Looking good Tom.....I bet the judge can't wait for you to get the track down so he can run a train around and around and around and around....geez, I'm making myself dizzy (dizzier) just thinking about it! ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 02, 2014, 09:04:53 AM
Looking good Tom.....I bet the judge can't wait for you to get the track down so he can run a train around and around and around and around....geez, I'm making myself dizzy (dizzier) just thinking about it! ;D
And more dizzy!
Tom ;D
Tom,
Congratulations on meeting your goal on the lower level benchwork. Looking great my friend. Trackwork next? Then the middle level!!! Does this ever end? And all those blue boxes, OMG!!! And are all those engine boxes full?!!!
Really looking forward to the progress of your new layout. I think that this was a wise decision to start over. You are certainly going to have plenty of running room. And then there is scenery, but that's another year. Right!!!
Have a wonderful day,
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: Erieman on October 02, 2014, 02:17:49 PM
Tom,
Congratulations on meeting your goal on the lower level benchwork. Looking great my friend. Trackwork next? Then the middle level!!! Does this ever end? And all those blue boxes, OMG!!! And are all those engine boxes full?!!!
Really looking forward to the progress of your new layout. I think that this was a wise decision to start over. You are certainly going to have plenty of running room. And then there is scenery, but that's another year. Right!!!
Have a wonderful day,
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, The blue boxes you see are only about 1/3 of what I need to go through. Concerning the brass, about 1/2 of the boxes have a brass loco in them. The remainder are either on the layout (or will be) or in the display cases.
Yes, my friend, it is now time for some serious track laying on the lower level. Once that's done I can move on to building the second level and getting track, scenery and structures in place, 2017 is just around the corner.
Have a great day.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 02, 2014, 03:40:42 PM
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, The blue boxes you see are only about 1/3 of what I need to go through. Concerning the brass, about 1/2 of the boxes have a brass loco in them. The remainder are either on the layout (or will be) or in the display cases.
Yes, my friend, it is now time for some serious track laying on the lower level. Once that's done I can move on to building the second level and getting track, scenery and structures in place, 2017 is just around the corner.
Have a great day. Tom ;D
So, what's the hold-up? ;D ;D ;D
And, what's with this 2017 crap? ??? ??? ??? ???
I have a hard time thinkin' about the end of 2014 - oh, chit, is it already 2014?? :'( :'( :'(
Hey David.....you have to remember, Tom has a job and since he's such a hard working guy, he doesn't have all the time he would like to have to work on the layout.
Oh, did I mention that he works really hard 2 or 3 days a week? ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on October 02, 2014, 11:08:56 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 02, 2014, 03:40:42 PM
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, The blue boxes you see are only about 1/3 of what I need to go through. Concerning the brass, about 1/2 of the boxes have a brass loco in them. The remainder are either on the layout (or will be) or in the display cases.
Yes, my friend, it is now time for some serious track laying on the lower level. Once that's done I can move on to building the second level and getting track, scenery and structures in place, 2017 is just around the corner.
Have a great day. Tom ;D
So, what's the hold-up? ;D ;D ;D
And, what's with this 2017 crap? ??? ??? ??? ???
I have a hard time thinkin' about the end of 2014 - oh, chit, is it already 2014?? :'( :'( :'(
The NMRA convention is here in Orlando in 2017!
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 03, 2014, 08:54:34 AM
Hey David.....you have to remember, Tom has a job and since he's such a hard working guy, he doesn't have all the time he would like to have to work on the layout.
Oh, did I mention that he works really hard 2 or 3 days a week? ;D
I work when I work and don't when I don't. Otherwise, I'm paid to be available and available I am!
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 03, 2014, 02:52:24 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 03, 2014, 08:54:34 AM
Hey David.....you have to remember, Tom has a job and since he's such a hard working guy, he doesn't have all the time he would like to have to work on the layout.
Oh, did I mention that he works really hard 2 or 3 days a week? ;D
I work when I work and don't when I don't. Otherwise, I'm paid to be available and available I am!
Tom ;D
I should be able to come up with go come-back for that, since you're playing the straight guy and giving me the set-up. Okay, let me think. Ouch, that hurts! All right, I didn't know there was an 8th dwarf - "Available". Pretty lame, but it's the best I can do on short notice.
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 03, 2014, 05:18:07 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 03, 2014, 02:52:24 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 03, 2014, 08:54:34 AM
Hey David.....you have to remember, Tom has a job and since he's such a hard working guy, he doesn't have all the time he would like to have to work on the layout.
Oh, did I mention that he works really hard 2 or 3 days a week? ;D
I work when I work and don't when I don't. Otherwise, I'm paid to be available and available I am!
Tom ;D
I should be able to come up with go come-back for that, since you're playing the straight guy and giving me the set-up. Okay, let me think. Ouch, that hurts!
All right, I didn't know there was an 8th dwarf - "Available".
Pretty lame, but it's the best I can do on short notice.
This would have been a good one.
"The difference between the right word and the almost right word is like the difference between the lightning and the lightning bug."
Mark Twain
Tom
The build is looking good - every time I stop by I can see the progress. I just reached the point on my layout where we stopped using the bench work for storage. All the boxes have been stored underneath the layout - it is a huge milestone. I can see you are working your way to that milestone - you have lots of great storage ideas.
Quote from: S&S RR on October 03, 2014, 07:54:32 PM
Tom
The build is looking good - every time I stop by I can see the progress. I just reached the point on my layout where we stopped using the bench work for storage. All the boxes have been stored underneath the layout - it is a huge milestone. I can see you are working your way to that milestone - you have lots of great storage ideas.
John,
Thanks very much. Yes, I'm working to that end as well. I mentioned to my Babe that I need, very soon, to get all the stuff off the benchwork and make a point of not storing tool, boxes and other stuff on the top of the area I'm currently working.
Tom ;D
I always thought the 8th dwarf was named "Sleazy"...
I'm jealous of anyone who's not using his benchwork for overflow storage!
dave
Quote from: deemery on October 04, 2014, 11:40:45 AM
I always thought the 8th dwarf was named "Sleazy"...
I'm jealous of anyone who's not using his benchwork for overflow storage!
dave
Dave,
No need to be jealous just yet. The layout looked like this a few days ago.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-011014165112.jpeg)
Today it looks like this.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041014174602.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041014174622.jpeg)
Feel better now?
Tom ;D
Lots better ;D ;D ;D ;)
Quote from: Janbouli on October 04, 2014, 07:03:06 PM
Lots better ;D ;D ;D ;)
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D ;D
Quote from: deemery on October 04, 2014, 07:49:39 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 04, 2014, 07:03:54 PM
Quote from: Janbouli on October 04, 2014, 07:03:06 PM
Lots better ;D ;D ;D ;)
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D ;D
Me, too...
dave
Sure is nice to have all these friends helping you to evaluate your progress. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
John,
Thanks for checking in and I guess the saying is true, "A man can't have to many friends"! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D 8)
Tom
Today was a very productive day working on the railroad. I spent much of the afternoon working on the crossover between the two book shelves. The area that needs to be spanned is 38" in length.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014180926.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014180948.jpeg)
I wanted to use a 2X4 for the cross over section but it proved to be to heavy to fit so I opted for a 1X4.
I tried several methods of attaching the crossover to the two sections and this is the best method I came up with. I want to have the crossover track fit into a section so it will be in the correct position and level each time it's installed.
I started by using a short piece of 1X1 cut from a small piece of spruce. I find spruce is dense and doesn't split when screwed. However, to be on the safe side I drilled and counter sunk a screw in the small piece.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181347.jpeg)
Basically I made a small bridge on each side section for the crossover to fit into.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181406.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Fast forward a little here and the bridge crossover is in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181426.jpeg)
It's usualy a great idea to check your work and make sure you are on the straight and level. Or, is that the straight and narrow. Well, the bridge is straight and narrow as well as level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181447.jpeg)
Being level is a good thing.
Continued in a few.
When I attached the track I did something different this time around. Since the crossover is actually a fancy liftout, I cut the track at a 45 degree angle best I could eye balling it. This is the track that will be attached to the bridge/liftout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181508.jpeg)
The two ends of the other pieces of track were cut at the opposite 45 degree angle.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181540.jpeg)
Here is how the two pieces of track fit to each other. This is close up photo so the gap appears much larger than it actually is.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181600.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I used a 10" track gauge to align the two sections of track so they would be properly aligned when secured to the layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181628.jpeg)
As I mentioned the liftout span is 38", so a 36" piece of ME code 83 track just didn't fit the bill. :'( :'( :'( Murphy's Law all over again.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181651.jpeg)
The short track piece was soldered to the bridge piece. The two ends were cut as described earlier and secured in place. Remember the level? Level is a good thing. ;D ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181714.jpeg)
In my next addition I'll explain how I wired it so I don't have any connecting wires or wire harness hanging down that I need to fool with.
Tom ;D
All right.....trains running around and around and around is getting closer. ;D
Keep on the straight and level, or you may join us fully retired folks sooner than you expect!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 05, 2014, 08:22:35 PM
All right.....trains running around and around and around is getting closer. ;D
Greg,
Yes, around and around. Kinda like my head has been over the past several months.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on October 05, 2014, 10:45:11 PM
Keep on the straight and level, or you may join us fully retired folks sooner than you expect!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
I plan on being fully retired @ the first of the year. I've already advised the State Attorney that my last work day will be the first week of January 2015. Time to work on this project more than a few hours a week.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 06, 2014, 07:39:50 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 05, 2014, 08:22:35 PM
All right.....trains running around and around and around is getting closer. ;D
Greg,
Yes, around and around. Kinda like my head has been over the past several months.
Tom ;D
I know the feeling..... ???
Hi there,
That´s looking great...never seen this 45 degree cut but it´s an very good idea...
Keep on with the progress,
Cheers,Chris
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 06, 2014, 07:43:51 AM
Gman,
I plan on being fully retired @ the first of the year. I've already advised the State Attorney that my last work day will be the first week of January 2015. Time to work on this project more than a few hours a week. Tom ;D
I'll be watchin' the news - the crimeenals are gonna declare 2015 as 'Free Rein in Floridy'!! ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on October 10, 2014, 05:35:39 PM
Hi there,
That´s looking great...never seen this 45 degree cut but it´s an very good idea...
Keep on with the progress,
Cheers,Chris
Chris,
Thanks for stopping by, much appreciated. The 45 degree angle came to me when I was cutting the track. So far it is working perfectly. I've made the 90 degree cut in the past and always seemed to have a little bump when the train crosses the gap, but not on the 45 angle.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on October 10, 2014, 08:21:37 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 06, 2014, 07:43:51 AM
Gman,
I plan on being fully retired @ the first of the year. I've already advised the State Attorney that my last work day will be the first week of January 2015. Time to work on this project more than a few hours a week. Tom ;D
I'll be watchin' the news - the crimeenals are gonna declare 2015 as 'Free Rein in Floridy'!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
The "crimeenals" can have it as then it will be someone else's problem!
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 11, 2014, 08:14:05 AM
... The 45 degree angle came to me when I was cutting the track. So far it is working perfectly. I've made the 90 degree cut in the past and always seemed to have a little bump when the train crosses the gap, but not on the 45 angle.
Tom ;D
If nothing else, this "distributes" the bump across the truck/wheelbase of the loco, so it's a sideward motion rather than a vertical bump. When I was a brand new 2LT, my jeep driver took me out and taught me how to drive that thing (M151A2), including teaching me to never hit a bump straight on if I could avoid it.
dave
Quote from: deemery on October 11, 2014, 01:07:30 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 11, 2014, 08:14:05 AM
... The 45 degree angle came to me when I was cutting the track. So far it is working perfectly. I've made the 90 degree cut in the past and always seemed to have a little bump when the train crosses the gap, but not on the 45 angle.
Tom ;D
If nothing else, this "distributes" the bump across the truck/wheelbase of the loco, so it's a sideward motion rather than a vertical bump. When I was a brand new 2LT, my jeep driver took me out and taught me how to drive that thing (M151A2), including teaching me to never hit a bump straight on if I could avoid it.
dave
Dave,
That makes perfect sense. Of course I must add that I wasn't thinking of that. The trains do in fact run much smoother across the angle rather than the vertical bump. It was just blind luck for me to come up with the idea. Seems like your 2LT driver has been in the jeep many a time over the bumps.
Tom ;D
On the lower level single track liftout, I mentioned I wanted to have something simple to attach and remove. I came up with the following idea for the liftout.
I marked on the bottom of the 1X4 where the electrical connection would be and then cut a short section of brass stock the with of the 1X4 which was actually 3.5 inches.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181827.jpeg)
I didn't have enough of the same thickness brass stock so I had to notch the one end, east end, of the 1X4. You can see this in the above photo. I also counter sunk two holes in the board under the brass stock. The feeder wires will fit through the holes to the track side. NOTE: I cut the brass stock into two pieces, this represents the rails on the opposite side of the board.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181849.jpeg)
I used doorbell wire from ACE Hardware for the electrical wires.
NOTE: I also use this wire for all my track feeder wires as well. As you can see its brass and solders very well. It sells for .25 a ft. but I buy the whole roll of 500 ft. for $79.99. This saves me $45.00 by buying the roll.
The two black lines on the pieces of brass correspond with the counter sunk holes for the wire.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181911.jpeg)
The wires were then soldered to the brass pieces.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014181932.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I then placed the wires in the holes and soldered the wire to the corresponding track rails.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014182014.jpeg)
I cut two equal pieces of brass and "edge" soldered the wires to the brass. I then glued the brass pieces to the top of the block support.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014161135.jpeg)
The wires were then connected to the buss wires under the layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014161052.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I repeated the process on the West end of the liftout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014161154.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014161113.jpeg)
Remember I said "level is a good thing"!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051014182035.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Okay, I have to tell a story on myself here. After the liftout was wired and placed in position, I made the initial testing of the train running across the bridge. It ran fine until it crossed the gap and then stopped DRT. I used the five finger crane and pushed the loco back a few inches, it ran forward to the gap, crossed the gap and was DRT. A short, where in the He-- is the short? I cut a short piece of wire and used it to bypass the gap. The loco ran over the gap and kept going. Okay, it works. I started over with the loco and it crossed the gap and was DRT! I'll spare you the details of my audible comments but after an hour I finally figured out the problem. The brass stock was coated with a thin layer of lacquer to keep the brass form tarnishing. I used Acetone and a Q-tip to remove the coating and the loco ran fine after that.
Oh, DRT is a law enforcement term we used in the Crime Scene Unit for "Dead Right There"!
Continued later this evening.
You may have a bit of a challenge keeping the brass from tarnishing. Wonder if you could use conductive paint to prevent that?
dave
Looking good. Solid infrastructure for this monster layout!
John
Quote from: deemery on October 11, 2014, 06:39:47 PM
You may have a bit of a challenge keeping the brass from tarnishing. Wonder if you could use conductive paint to prevent that?
dave
Dave,
The tarnishing isn't an issue for me as long as I get a good electrical connection. I guess they coat the brass as who wants to buy tarnished brass stock in the hobby shop.
The electrical paint certainly is an option worth considering. Thank you for the input.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on October 12, 2014, 08:39:31 AM
Looking good. Solid infrastructure for this monster layout!
John
John,
Thanks for stopping by. The lower level is solid as it has to also support the middle level. I was actually sitting on it yesterday during one of the BS'ing after lunch.
Tom ;D
After building the bridge and getting the trains to run correctly, I moved on to the track around the computer desk.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014161214.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014161239.jpeg)
QUESTION: Why does it take so many tools to do one simple job?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014161256.jpeg)
Continued later this afternoon.
Here's the tools answer:
Every Tim Allen grunt from Home Improvement!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQwYNca4iog (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQwYNca4iog)
Quote from: gnatshop on October 12, 2014, 03:54:46 PM
Here's the tools answer:
Every Tim Allen grunt from Home Improvement!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQwYNca4iog (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQwYNca4iog)
The first three minutes was plenty enough!
Tom ;D
Temporarily Delayed - Due to HONEY-DO painting project!!
Quote from: gnatshop on October 16, 2014, 09:52:00 PM
Temporarily Delayed - Due to HONEY-DO painting project!!
Gman,
The layout work is still going strong. The house painting will start next week.
Tom ;D
Tom Wilson stopped by October 9th, 2014 to inspect the layout. You may remember I did a series of pictures of Tom's fantastic layout. Tom's layout can be seen here - http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=372.0 (http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=372.0)
Tom is a building inspector for the City of Winter Park, Fl. located just north of Orlando. Anyway, Tom checked the layout over and approved the Ovalix as an engineering marvel and very well built. However, he did find an issue with a portion of the benchwrok. This particular portion failed inspection.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014161954.jpeg)
He failed the bechwork on the incorrect screw spacing and height. The circles are where the problem screws were located. I've since made the necessary adjustments so the layout passes inspection.
NOTE: SBG member, the Judge, is the one that screwed these screws in the wrong place. Notice I drew the line where the screws go and he missed the line, hence a failed inspection.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014162014.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Okay, for those that thought I was serious, I wasn't. It was just a little fun poked at the Judge.
There is no requirement for a layout to be inspected. I'm my own worst inspector anyway!
After I did the liftout, I got to thinking that it would just be a matter of time before some goon dumb a-- bumped into the liftout. So, I cut some hardboard/Masonite and screwed the two pieces to the sides of the liftout. This will stop any train from falling off the wooden bridge and becoming a Fallen Flag loco. 8) 8) 8) 8)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014161324.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014161342.jpeg)
Also, Bob, known to ya'll as Reading Bob, came by with his new Reading switcher and got to be the first to test the bridge with his loco. All worked and the loco didn't burn up, this time.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014161404.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111014161426.jpeg)
That's all for now.
Looks like it passed through a major snowfall with the white stuff up to the top of the handrails. ;D ;D Raymo
I'm startin' a pool to bet on who will be the first goon dumb a-- to bump the liftout!!
I'm savin' the square for my bet labeled Grand Poopaw Dumb a**! ;D ;D ;D ;D
P.S. I didn't put the Judge in the pool - he gets enough harassment from you!! ::) ::) ::)
Good Morning Tom,
I am writing this late Monday evening because by now you are fast asleep and my body clock does not know what time it is. Portugal was wonderful, but my body clock has been really screwed up since returning.
You have made a lot of progress over the last two weeks. Now you have all those staging tracks to install and level one is done. Fantastic. You should be onto the second level before Christmas. It is a lot of to see your progress. While on the many planes over the past two weeks, I had the chance to work on a design change on my layout. now that I am home, I have started to make the change. I was in the train station in Porto. Portugal and the light bulb went off. Now I just have to make the design changes. funny how these things happen.
Keep up the wonderful work and thanks for posting all the great pictures of your progress. Talk to you soon.
Frank / Erieman
So Tom....
On the new loco what is the foam stuff. Are your bridges so unreliable that you need flotation devices ? ? ? ?
see ya
Bob
Hi Tom,
good to see a train crossing the liftout.Nice work with the Bumpstops on both sides...now you have to paint it with black and yellow stripes ;)
Keep up the good work,
Cheers,Chris
Quote from: Raymo on October 20, 2014, 06:52:19 PM
Looks like it passed through a major snowfall with the white stuff up to the top of the handrails. ;D ;D Raymo
Raymo,
Thanks for stopping by! I told Bob to just leave the foam on the loco. I figured after putting up the pictures, I should have removed it!
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on October 20, 2014, 07:23:23 PM
I'm startin' a pool to bet on who will be the first goon dumb a-- to bump the liftout!!
I'm savin' the square for my bet labeled Grand Poopaw Dumb a**! ;D ;D ;D ;D
P.S. I didn't put the Judge in the pool - he gets enough harassment from you!! ::) ::) ::)
I won't be the one to walk thru it......I'd never hear the end of it from Tom if I did! ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on October 20, 2014, 07:23:23 PM
I'm startin' a pool to bet on who will be the first goon dumb a-- to bump the liftout!!
I'm savin' the square for my bet labeled Grand Poopaw Dumb a**! ;D ;D ;D ;D
P.S. I didn't put the Judge in the pool - he gets enough harassment from you!! ::) ::) ::)
I did however
almost (emphasis on almost) win the award for being the first Dumb a** to try and cross the gap with the liftout
not in place. ::) ;D ;D :o
Tom..........
I understand about leaving the foam on but I'm letting go of this that easily.
Get the civil engineers out there and get your bridges inspected ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Quote from: gnatshop on October 20, 2014, 07:23:23 PM
I'm startin' a pool to bet on who will be the first goon dumb a-- to bump the liftout!!
I'm savin' the square for my bet labeled Grand Poopaw Dumb a**! ;D ;D ;D ;D
P.S. I didn't put the Judge in the pool - he gets enough harassment from you!! ::) ::) ::)
Gman,
Good to hear from you my friend. I can always count on you to pick up the pace.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on October 20, 2014, 11:50:19 PM
Good Morning Tom,
I am writing this late Monday evening because by now you are fast asleep and my body clock does not know what time it is. Portugal was wonderful, but my body clock has been really screwed up since returning.
You have made a lot of progress over the last two weeks. Now you have all those staging tracks to install and level one is done. Fantastic. You should be onto the second level before Christmas. It is a lot of to see your progress. While on the many planes over the past two weeks, I had the chance to work on a design change on my layout. now that I am home, I have started to make the change. I was in the train station in Porto. Portugal and the light bulb went off. Now I just have to make the design changes. funny how these things happen.
Keep up the wonderful work and thanks for posting all the great pictures of your progress. Talk to you soon.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Glad to hear you had a great time and made it home safely. And, I understand about the body clock. When I was working midnight shift my days were all messed up and when I had the two days off I was up all night and the family slept, they got up and I slept. Glad those days are over. Now I'm up at night cause I'm an old geezer.
What do you mean design changes to the layout. Are you crazy? Take it from one who is actually crazy; you may want to reconsider unless you are making positive changes.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on October 21, 2014, 01:14:10 AM
So Tom....
On the new loco what is the foam stuff. Are your bridges so unreliable that you need flotation devices ? ? ? ?
see ya
Bob
Uh, yes, it very well could be exactly that! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on October 21, 2014, 03:20:36 AM
Hi Tom,
good to see a train crossing the liftout.Nice work with the Bumpstops on both sides...now you have to paint it with black and yellow stripes ;)
Keep up the good work,
Cheers,Chris
Hey Cris,
Thanks for stopping by. How about purple and silver with yellow stripes?
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 21, 2014, 08:47:10 AM
Quote from: gnatshop on October 20, 2014, 07:23:23 PM
I'm startin' a pool to bet on who will be the first goon dumb a-- to bump the liftout!!
I'm savin' the square for my bet labeled Grand Poopaw Dumb a**! ;D ;D ;D ;D
P.S. I didn't put the Judge in the pool - he gets enough harassment from you!! ::) ::) ::)
I won't be the one to walk thru it......I'd never hear the end of it from Tom if I did! ;D
Gregory,
Didn't they open a bunch of new stores in Orlando and name them after you?
I think they are called, WAWA! How about some cheese with the wine?
You are just to easy my friend.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on October 21, 2014, 02:28:09 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on October 20, 2014, 07:23:23 PM
I'm startin' a pool to bet on who will be the first goon dumb a-- to bump the liftout!!
I'm savin' the square for my bet labeled Grand Poopaw Dumb a**! ;D ;D ;D ;D
P.S. I didn't put the Judge in the pool - he gets enough harassment from you!! ::) ::) ::)
I did however almost (emphasis on almost) win the award for being the first Dumb a** to try and cross the gap with the liftout not in place. ::) ;D ;D :o
Bob,
Almost doesn't count. Remember when you came in I held up the hand for "ALTO". So I saved you, and me, alot of trouble.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on October 21, 2014, 02:42:20 PM
Tom..........
I understand about leaving the foam on but I'm letting go of this that easily.
Get the civil engineers out there and get your bridges inspected ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Okay, Okay, I'll get the civil guys back out here for the inspection. Now, get off my bridge, until the inspection. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 21, 2014, 04:09:31 PM
Quote from: Erieman on October 20, 2014, 11:50:19 PM
Good Morning Tom,
I am writing this late Monday evening because by now you are fast asleep and my body clock does not know what time it is. Portugal was wonderful, but my body clock has been really screwed up since returning.
You have made a lot of progress over the last two weeks. Now you have all those staging tracks to install and level one is done. Fantastic. You should be onto the second level before Christmas. It is a lot of to see your progress. While on the many planes over the past two weeks, I had the chance to work on a design change on my layout. now that I am home, I have started to make the change. I was in the train station in Porto. Portugal and the light bulb went off. Now I just have to make the design changes. funny how these things happen.
Keep up the wonderful work and thanks for posting all the great pictures of your progress. Talk to you soon.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Glad to hear you had a great time and made it home safely. And, I understand about the body clock. When I was working midnight shift my days were all messed up and when I had the two days off I was up all night and the family slept, they got up and I slept. Glad those days are over. Now I'm up at night cause I'm an old geezer.
What do you mean design changes to the layout. Are you crazy? Take it from one who is actually crazy; you may want to reconsider unless you are making positive changes.
Tom ;D
Tom,
We are all a little bit crazy playing with toy trains! And I love it!!! My change is only minor. While in Porto, Spain, we toured the train station ( go figure). They are very proud of the custom painted tile work in the station depicting the history of the region. I glanced away and looked down the tracks and the light bulb went off. Upon returning to the ship. I did some preliminary drawings of what I saw and what I wanted to accomplish. The train enters the porto station thru a tunnel. I have a similar area in East Orange and, after some careful sketching, think I can create something very similar. That's the good part. As we all know, this has the probability of turning into a much bigger project. So far, so good. I'll try to take a picture and post it on my thread.
Frank / Erieman
Hi Tom
I'm just getting caught up after a week away. My only comment about the above discussion is - has anyone ever meet a model railroad owner that wasn't in the middle of a design change? Mine seem to come along more often when I'm spending time on my boat fishing.
I would think that L'il Bobby would be ok now!
The liftout now looks like a bowling lane with guardrails!!
Just what he's been lookin' for!!! :D :D :D :D
No gutter trains here!!! 8) 8) 8)
Tom,
We are all a little bit crazy playing with toy trains! And I love it!!! My change is only minor. While in Porto, Spain, we toured the train station ( go figure). They are very proud of the custom painted tile work in the station depicting the history of the region. I glanced away and looked down the tracks and the light bulb went off. Upon returning to the ship. I did some preliminary drawings of what I saw and what I wanted to accomplish. The train enters the porto station thru a tunnel. I have a similar area in East Orange and, after some careful sketching, think I can create something very similar. That's the good part. As we all know, this has the probability of turning into a much bigger project. So far, so good. I'll try to take a picture and post it on my thread.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
I do understand the changes as I made several on the old layout and yes, they became bigger projects. I've already made a change to the new layout.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on October 21, 2014, 07:08:25 PM
Hi Tom
I'm just getting caught up after a week away. My only comment about the above discussion is - has anyone ever meet a model railroad owner that wasn't in the middle of a design change? Mine seem to come along more often when I'm spending time on my boat fishing.
John,
We all make changes we think will give us a better layout, run, look, etc. I was messing with Frank as we've had several phone conversations where the issue of change was the topic.
Mine usually came when I was doozing off or waking up at 3 AM with a new idea.
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D I guess we all have that "change" in common.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on October 21, 2014, 07:24:21 PM
I would think that L'il Bobby would be ok now!
The liftout now looks like a bowling lane with guardrails!!
Just what he's been lookin' for!!! :D :D :D :D
No gutter trains here!!! 8) 8) 8)
Gman,
Well, let's hope he is okay now!
Tom ;D
Hi Tom,
no problem,it´s your railroad empire ;D ;D ;D
but it´s a very good solution for protecting the trains falling down to the floor....
Keep things going,
regards,Chris
Quote from: Twist67 on October 22, 2014, 08:37:05 AM
Hi Tom,
no problem,it´s your railroad empire ;D ;D ;D
but it´s a very good solution for protecting the trains falling down to the floor....
Keep things going,
regards,Chris
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 21, 2014, 04:15:27 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 21, 2014, 08:47:10 AM
Quote from: gnatshop on October 20, 2014, 07:23:23 PM
I'm startin' a pool to bet on who will be the first goon dumb a-- to bump the liftout!!
I'm savin' the square for my bet labeled Grand Poopaw Dumb a**! ;D ;D ;D ;D
P.S. I didn't put the Judge in the pool - he gets enough harassment from you!! ::) ::) ::)
I won't be the one to walk thru it......I'd never hear the end of it from Tom if I did! ;D
Gregory,
Didn't they open a bunch of new stores in Orlando and name them after you?
I think they are called, WAWA! How about some cheese with the wine?
You are just to easy my friend.
Tom ;D
Hey Tom.....every great comedian needs a straight man! ;D
Tick-Tock!! Better start stirrin' the paint - next week is comin' up quickly!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
I always go back to the big-box store after I put it off as long as I can - my arms can't
hold a candle to their shaker thingees! :( :( :(
I'm currently training for the Atlantic and Southern SBG limbo contest coming soon.
John
Tom,
Now that you are almost retired, you must not be working on the layout? I getting withdrawls because you have not posted any layout photos in weeks. We all want to see your progress, even if it is just a switch or two. Waz up?
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: gnatshop on October 23, 2014, 09:59:34 PM
Tick-Tock!! Better start stirrin' the paint - next week is comin' up quickly!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
I always go back to the big-box store after I put it off as long as I can - my arms can't
hold a candle to their shaker thingees! :( :( :(
I'm finally finished with the house painting and it was a nightmare. No, I won't go any further with details.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on October 24, 2014, 06:42:40 AM
I'm currently training for the Atlantic and Southern SBG limbo contest coming soon.
John
John,
Considering the ages of the current Saturday Butty Group, I'm just going to declare you the winner now. This will save the rest of us the feelings of ebullience in the prospect of participating in such a dangerous contest.
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8) 8)
Quote from: Erieman on November 09, 2014, 04:52:26 PM
Tom,
Now that you are almost retired, you must not be working on the layout? I getting withdrawls because you have not posted any layout photos in weeks. We all want to see your progress, even if it is just a switch or two. Waz up?
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
It's always good to see you my friend. Now that I've made the decision to retire, I should have expostulated with myself and left sooner than December 31! I really getting antsy(sp) to leave.
I have the same withdrawals from not working on the layout. Now that my Babe's 1:1 house painting is done and Cuse's C19 is finished, I can get back to the layout.
I should have more photos within the week.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on November 09, 2014, 06:16:45 PM
Quote from: Erieman on November 09, 2014, 04:52:26 PM
Tom,
Now that you are almost retired, you must not be working on the layout? I getting withdrawls because you have not posted any layout photos in weeks. We all want to see your progress, even if it is just a switch or two. Waz up?
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
It's always good to see you my friend. Now that I've made the decision to retire, I should have expostulated with myself and left sooner than December 31! I really getting antsy(sp) to leave.
I have the same withdrawals from not working on the layout. Now that my Babe's 1:1 house painting is done and Cuse's C19 is finished, I can get back to the layout.
I should have more photos within the week.
Tom ;D
Tom,
I'm looking forward to your progress. While in Tucson yesterday, I visited a friends layout that has a wonderful steel mill complex. He has graciously offered to help me with ideas for my steel mill area. Now I am pumped to get to work on it. so much to do, so little time.
Frank / Erieman
Well, I'm back and have been laying track on the lower level. However, I'm not ready to show ya'll any pictures of that adventure. Soon though.
My Babe has had me quite busy for the past 3+ weeks painting the house. I purchased Lowe's top of the line Valspar exterior paint at $49.00 a gallon. Can says one coat coverage, that's bull split! I tried Home Depot Behr exterior at the same price and it said the same thing. Another bull split! I always count on rolling at least two coats but not more than that.
I used a very pale pastel yellow over a light earth color. It took three coats to cover the house. I'm going to leave this story here as I'm getting angry just telling the story! I'm not soliciting any paint stories nor wanting to know how gooooooooooood other paints are. I'm just saying where I've been on the layout or lack there of.
Oh, one more thing. I had to paint the layout building as well and yes the whole damn venture took me three weeks. Nuff said.
Back to railroad modeling. Of course my crew lounge and work area became a "catch all" during the past month. I got up this morning and just couldn't take it anymore. Today was clean up day for the crew lounge and workbench area. Here are a few before pictures of the crew lounge area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174419.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174443.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
And here is my workbench area. I've had nightmares about the workbench.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174531.jpeg)
This is the area I use to repair brass locos and every other loco as well as rolling stock and passenger equipment.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174508.jpeg)
And here is the area I use to build structures and work on misc. stuff.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174609.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
After 9 hours of clean up here is the crew lounge area at this typing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174552.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174552.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174813.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174813.jpeg)
The display case holds my Athearn collection. About 90% of the cars are from my childhood and no Gamn it wasn't last year. Although some may have a great case for such a thought.
The cars are all from 1957 to 1971 and have the old Athearn sprung trucks. The numbers on the cars have all been retired. None of the cars are broken or have missing parts which is a miracle they all survived.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174905.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174905.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The black crane is a Marx my father bought for me in New York while attending the 1957 World Series between the New York Yankees and the Milwaukee Braves (now Atlanta Braves). I still have the program.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114182427.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The workbench after clean up.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174632.jpeg)
I know Gamn and the Ledbetters are very jealous of my Ace Hardware trash container.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174652.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174723.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174723.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174752.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174752.jpeg)
I even found some of S&S RR's creosote!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174848.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201114174848.jpeg)
Now, I need to get back to the track laying. I should have some pictures this weekend.
Tom ;D
Tom
The place looks great after the cleanup! Looks like you have had that can of creosote for awhile. I think you should get one of those bottles down from the top shelf and reward yourself for all the hard work. I'm enjoying being back in the train room and I hope you are too.
Quote from: S&S RR on November 20, 2014, 06:51:53 PM
Tom
The place looks great after the cleanup! Looks like you have had that can of creosote for awhile. I think you should get one of those bottles down from the top shelf and reward yourself for all the hard work. I'm enjoying being back in the train room and I hope you are too.
John,
Thanks John and yes, I'm very happy to be back! I'll be much happier come January 1, 2015.
You can come here in 100 more years and the stuff on the shelf will still be here. I have a very low tolerance for alcohol and have been known to be quite tippsy after a sip of the Babe's Royal Crown and coke.
I've had the Tru Scale Creosote for about 45 years.
Thanks for checking in!
Tom ;D
Tom, The Illinois Central 40ft. boxcar was my 1st Athearn freight car purchase back in 1977.My brother still has it. Thanks for sharing your clean up process. Raymo
Tom,
Outstanding cleanup job!!! Do you hire out?? ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on November 20, 2014, 07:00:37 PM
You can come here in 100 more years and the stuff on the shelf will still be here. I have a very low tolerance for alcohol and have been known to be quite tippsy after a sip of the Babe's Royal Crown and coke.
Tom ;D
No worry - you've still got true friends out here!!
I'll sit down and share the Babe's Royal Crown and coke any you need me! 8) 8)
Oh, wait - ain't that Crown Royal??
The only Royal Crown that I know of is R.C. Cola, also known as R. oh C.!!!
Oriental rugs in the crew lounge?
Get outta' town.
Did you remember to polish the floors before you put them down?
Next thing you know, there'll be a "Remove Shoes Before Entering" sign outside. Poor 'Gnat won't be able to operate without first scraping his shoes.
Quote from: BandOGuy on November 20, 2014, 09:54:20 PM
Next thing you know, there'll be a "Remove Shoes Before Entering" sign outside. Poor 'Gnat won't be able to operate without first scraping his shoes.
L'il Tommy probly wont even let me scrape my shoes outside - he don't want no dog poop in his yard, much less cow poop!!!
I think that blue chair in the corner is my "timeout" spot when I mess up the operating schedule...Tom runs a tight ship in the Man Cave...I should probably bring a book as I expect many ejections. He'll rip the stripes right off my uniform and send me to the dreaded blue chair while the others try to clean up the mess. ;D
John
Operations Rookie, SBG
Quote from: Raymo on November 20, 2014, 07:54:00 PM
Tom, The Illinois Central 40ft. boxcar was my 1st Athearn freight car purchase back in 1977.My brother still has it. Thanks for sharing your clean up process. Raymo
Raymo,
Thanks for stopping by. That Athearn IC car #30130 was releassed by Athearn in November of 1971 and is considered OP3, out of production, rare and not likely to be found. Athearn released a second one in February 1994 with number 31025.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jerryrbeach on November 20, 2014, 09:03:28 PM
Tom,
Outstanding cleanup job!!! Do you hire out?? ;D ;D ;D
Jerry,
Thanks and no, no hiring out from here! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Quote from: gnatshop on November 20, 2014, 09:28:53 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on November 20, 2014, 07:00:37 PM
You can come here in 100 more years and the stuff on the shelf will still be here. I have a very low tolerance for alcohol and have been known to be quite tippsy after a sip of the Babe's Royal Crown and coke.
Tom ;D
No worry - you've still got true friends out here!!
I'll sit down and share the Babe's Royal Crown and coke any you need me! 8) 8)
Oh, wait - ain't that Crown Royal??
The only Royal Crown that I know of is R.C. Cola, also known as R. oh C.!!!
Gman,
You can tell I'm no drinker as I don't even know the name of the stuff! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Glad to know I still have friends though!
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on November 20, 2014, 09:54:20 PM
Oriental rugs in the crew lounge?
Get outta' town.
Did you remember to polish the floors before you put them down?
Next thing you know, there'll be a "Remove Shoes Before Entering" sign outside. Poor 'Gnat won't be able to operate without first scraping his shoes.
Chip,
Actually the rug is down to protect the new carpet during construction of the layout. That area of the crew lounge gets lots of foot traffic in and out. Speaking of polishing the floors you don't know how close I came to installing wood flooring in the crew lounge.
Gman actually wears shoes? Well, what do you know about that. I never figured he owned any much less wore them. :o :o
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on November 20, 2014, 11:31:11 PM
Quote from: BandOGuy on November 20, 2014, 09:54:20 PM
Next thing you know, there'll be a "Remove Shoes Before Entering" sign outside. Poor 'Gnat won't be able to operate without first scraping his shoes.
L'il Tommy probly wont even let me scrape my shoes outside - he don't want no dog poop in his yard, much less cow poop!!!
Gman,
I didn't know you owned any shoes much less wore them. However, feel free to come by and have a "Royal Crown" and coke with the Babe. You can scrape your feet on the door mat. ;D ;D ;D
I'll have an RohA Ce Kola with ya'll!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on November 21, 2014, 07:12:01 AM
I think that blue chair in the corner is my "timeout" spot when I mess up the operating schedule...Tom runs a tight ship in the Man Cave...I should probably bring a book as I expect many ejections. He'll rip the stripes right off my uniform and send me to the dreaded blue chair while the others try to clean up the mess. ;D
John
Operations Rookie, SBG
John,
Oh what a kidder you are. But, an honest one. Not to worry, you can see I have plenty of reading material for those assigned to the "dreaded blue chair" timeout corner.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on November 21, 2014, 08:44:30 AM
Quote from: Cuse on November 21, 2014, 07:12:01 AM
I think that blue chair in the corner is my "timeout" spot when I mess up the operating schedule...Tom runs a tight ship in the Man Cave...I should probably bring a book as I expect many ejections. He'll rip the stripes right off my uniform and send me to the dreaded blue chair while the others try to clean up the mess. ;D
John
Operations Rookie, SBG
John,
Oh what a kidder you are. But, an honest one. Not to worry, you can see I have plenty of reading material for those assigned to the "dreaded blue chair" timeout corner.
Tom ;D
Operations sessions.....now I'm really getting nervous. I can't wait to see what you have in store for me OR whe're I'll have to go when you give me a time out. :(
Greg
Operations Disaster Waiting To Happen, SBG
Quote from: GPdemayo on November 21, 2014, 08:56:25 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on November 21, 2014, 08:44:30 AM
Quote from: Cuse on November 21, 2014, 07:12:01 AM
I think that blue chair in the corner is my "timeout" spot when I mess up the operating schedule...Tom runs a tight ship in the Man Cave...I should probably bring a book as I expect many ejections. He'll rip the stripes right off my uniform and send me to the dreaded blue chair while the others try to clean up the mess. ;D
John
Operations Rookie, SBG
John,
Oh what a kidder you are. But, an honest one. Not to worry, you can see I have plenty of reading material for those assigned to the "dreaded blue chair" timeout corner.
Tom ;D
Operations sessions.....now I'm really getting nervous. I can't wait to see what you have in store for me OR whe're I'll have to go when you give me a time out. :(
Greg
Operations Disaster Waiting To Happen, SBG
Not to worry Gregory, I'll think of something.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on November 21, 2014, 11:15:01 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on November 21, 2014, 08:56:25 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on November 21, 2014, 08:44:30 AM
Quote from: Cuse on November 21, 2014, 07:12:01 AM
I think that blue chair in the corner is my "timeout" spot when I mess up the operating schedule...Tom runs a tight ship in the Man Cave...I should probably bring a book as I expect many ejections. He'll rip the stripes right off my uniform and send me to the dreaded blue chair while the others try to clean up the mess. ;D
John
Operations Rookie, SBG
John,
Oh what a kidder you are. But, an honest one. Not to worry, you can see I have plenty of reading material for those assigned to the "dreaded blue chair" timeout corner.
Tom ;D
Operations sessions.....now I'm really getting nervous. I can't wait to see what you have in store for me OR whe're I'll have to go when you give me a time out. :(
Greg
Operations Disaster Waiting To Happen, SBG
Not to worry Gregory, I'll think of something.
Tom ;D
That's what I'm worriesd about..... ;)
Well, I finally have a few update pictures to show. I'm about 85% finished with the storage tracks on the East side of the room. I have 9 storage tracks with a passiong siding. I could have squeezed in two more storage tracks but I didn't what them all bunched close together.
I mentioned the 85% finished as I still have to do block control, wiring and tortoise installs.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114182847.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114183030.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I'm really fortunate and happy to have this much room for storage tracks. I'll have the same space available on the West side but I won't have the length I have on the East side.
The longest track is 35ft. and the shortest is 23ft..
I have room on each end for a few more storage tracks but I haven't decided if I'll do it or not. You can see in the next few pictures I have a turnout in the position where a few more short tracks can be installed. I'll leave this as is for a month and see how it may look. Once the second level is installed over the lower level there is no gong back and adding them.
Also, you can see I installed rerailers on each end of each track. This way I'm covered coming and going. I don't need any derails in any areas difficult to get to.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114182925.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114182948.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114182907.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114183011.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
On four of the nine tracks I have the space to store two trains on each track. I can have three E units and twelve Walthers heavyweights and three F units and twelve Walthers heavyweights. That's alot of storage and alot of train. I currently have two FT ACL A units pulling a train of 33 cars but the siding has enough room to add 10 more freight cars.
On a side note, I was speaking with Frank Baker, Erieman, this afternoon and mentioned to him two freight cars a friend gave me. I received two 40+ year old Northeastern freight cars. The man who built them is unknown to me but I was told he built these cars some 40+ years ago. They are extremely well built as these cars are all wood, had to be assembled, painted, decaled and etc.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114183050.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114183112.jpeg)
Both cars also have the correct brake lining and details under the car.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114183132.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I've never seen a car like this next one. It's a Western Union Telegraph
Co. car of some sort. I've never seen a WUT car in any book.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114183415.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114183415.jpeg)
This car is unusual in that it have a door in one end and not the other. I guess the closed end was to prevent entry from the passengers. I'm only assumiong this is a head end car.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114183443.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114183443.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114183504.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211114183504.jpeg)
That is all for now!
Tom ;D
Tom, no matter how much I harass and pick on you -
the Ledbetters are awful darned impressed!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Those storage tracks give plenty of room for all them circus cars that carry
all the the purty women!! 8) 8) 8) 8)
Wow. This is impressive as you say you are luck to have so much space. My 10x18 shelve layout is "itty bitty" in comparison. Great job. Jim
Quote from: gnatshop on November 21, 2014, 08:23:37 PM
Tom, no matter how much I harass and pick on you -
the Ledbetters are awful darned impressed!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Those storage tracks give plenty of room for all them circus cars that carry
all the the purty women!! 8) 8) 8) 8)
Gman,
Thank you my friend, much appreciated. You are welcome to come by and pick on me all your little heart desires. I love your sense of humor and your posting are always welcome here. Right now I only see one purty woman! The Babe! 8) 8) 8) :P :P :P :P
Tom ;D
Quote from: jrmueller on November 22, 2014, 06:21:01 AM
Wow. This is impressive as you say you are luck to have so much space. My 10x18 shelve layout is "itty bitty" in comparison. Great job. Jim
Jim,
Thanks, much appreciated and thanks for stopping by. My first layout was on an outside screened in porch, very cold in the winter and very very hot in the summer. I am blessed to have this much room.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221114072134.jpeg)
Tom ;D
Impressive. Makes my two storage yards look minuscule by comparison. Can the two FTs carry a 43 (or 33) car train up the ovalix? :)
Jeff
Looks great Tom.....check the track a litle behind the Zephyr, I think you missed a bent nail! ;)
See you tomorrow.....
Good Morning Tom,
Now that is what I call storage tracks!!! Wowie, wow, this is going to be awesome. Can't wait to see the next level. And to think that you started with that little set on the outside porch! Was that an Athearn Hustler? Rubber band drive? At least you have pictures of your early endeavors.
Interesting that you posted the pictures of the two cars that someone gave you. I have similar car. It has been in my possession since 1957. How time flies. It looks like the same manufacturer as the Hood car you have. It's too pretty to run, or even consider weathering, so it is on a shelf.
Well, press on with your build. It is looking simply marvelous, my friend. Just remember, more pictures please.
Frank / Erieman
Looks like l'il Tommy has taken a break to have himself a R oh Cee Cola!!
Hang in there, Diet Pepsi - your loyalty may be questioned!
And poor l'il Bober - he's havin' a cryin' fit!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Hi there
Tom,that´s an impressive yard with a lot of storage tacks.....looking great.Now I´m getting an imagination how big your layout room is......
Those two cars are looking fine.
Keep the progress going,
Cheers,Chris
Love the first layout picture! The telegraph car is sweet!
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on November 22, 2014, 09:19:28 AM
Impressive. Makes my two storage yards look minuscule by comparison. Can the two FTs carry a 43 (or 33) car train up the ovalix? :)
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
Thank you, much appreciated. As I said, I'm very blessed to have this much room.
Now on to your serious question. Can the two FTs pull a long train, currently 33 freight car plus a small caboose, up the ovalix? The answer is yes, most definitely. As a matter of fact and trial, the Judge and I did it yesterday. I knew I should have taken a photo and even commented to the Judge about the picture of the run.
The two FTs are Intermountain diesels with DCC and sound. We ran then up the ovalix at a scale 25mph and they never hesitated the entire run. The run was nine loops. The Judge and I came up with a new word for the run on the ovalix. We now say the one loop is one ovalution on the ovalix. When finished, the run will be 10 ovalutions from bottom to top on the ovalix! 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on November 22, 2014, 09:23:32 AM
Looks great Tom.....check the track a litle behind the Zephyr, I think you missed a bent nail! ;)
See you tomorrow.....
Greg,
Thanks, I appreciate you stopping by. We had fun today didn't we? The SBG is a great group.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on November 22, 2014, 09:47:23 AM
Good Morning Tom,
Now that is what I call storage tracks!!! Wowie, wow, this is going to be awesome. Can't wait to see the next level. And to think that you started with that little set on the outside porch! Was that an Athearn Hustler? Rubber band drive? At least you have pictures of your early endeavors.
Interesting that you posted the pictures of the two cars that someone gave you. I have similar car. It has been in my possession since 1957. How time flies. It looks like the same manufacturer as the Hood car you have. It's too pretty to run, or even consider weathering, so it is on a shelf.
Well, press on with your build. It is looking simply marvelous, my friend. Just remember, more pictures please.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by. A man can never have to many storage tracks can he? Yes, that was my little rubber band drive hustler. At my age at the time, it took me many years to understand what my father meant when he said, "It doesn't look like a hustler to me". And of course with all my worldly knowledge at that age I said, "Of course it looks like a hustler." He just chuckled.
Even with my weathering skills, I won't even attempt to change anything on either car and they will be placed in the display case once I get a few more brass locos on the layout.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on November 22, 2014, 08:45:39 PM
Looks like l'il Tommy has taken a break to have himself a R oh Cee Cola!!
Hang in there, Diet Pepsi - your loyalty may be questioned!
And poor l'il Bober - he's havin' a cryin' fit!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Good to see you again and so soon! I must say that the "cut back on Diet Pepsi" experiment was a failure. It lasted 6 weeks and I decided if people can live longer drinking the real "Royal Crown" HA, I can live drinking the DP's. But, time will tell. This should make Bober feel better.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on November 23, 2014, 09:57:50 AM
Hi there
Tom,that´s an impressive yard with a lot of storage tacks.....looking great.Now I´m getting an imagination how big your layout room is......
Those two cars are looking fine.
Keep the progress going,
Cheers,Chris
Hey Chris,
I appreciate you stopping by. The storage tracks will certainly come in handy as I get the rest of my stuff unpacked. The layout room is 12' X 48' with a 7' X 10' kickout space. The 7' X 10' area is where the ovalix is located.
Tom ;D
Quote from: LongHornCaddy on November 23, 2014, 11:57:21 AM
Love the first layout picture! The telegraph car is sweet!
Leo,
Thank you. I loved the first layout. I was big stuff with a 4x8 sheet of plywood layout.
The WUTX car is very sweet, thanks.
Glad you were pleased with the care package.
Tom :D
Quote from: ACL1504 on November 23, 2014, 02:47:27 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on November 22, 2014, 09:23:32 AM
Looks great Tom.....check the track a litle behind the Zephyr, I think you missed a bent nail! ;)
See you tomorrow.....
Greg,
Thanks, I appreciate you stopping by. We had fun today didn't we? The SBG is a great group.
Tom ;D
You bet.....I really enjoy our get togethers. 8)
Tom, I'm guessing your Western Union Materials Car spent more time parked at a work site than it did in regular passenger trains. In some cases WU rented wires from the RR, in others they had their own pole line. I think the materials car was used by WU linemen working out in the field, and only got moved when the crew changed bases.
They are both very nicely built models.
Quote from: jbvb on November 28, 2014, 05:38:27 PM
Tom, I'm guessing your Western Union Materials Car spent more time parked at a work site than it did in regular passenger trains. In some cases WU rented wires from the RR, in others they had their own pole line. I think the materials car was used by WU linemen working out in the field, and only got moved when the crew changed bases.
They are both very nicely built models.
James,
Thanks for checking in and letting us know about the WU materials car.
It does appear to have some sort of crew quarters on the one end. It's really neat and the man whom built this one and the Hood's Milk car certainly did a fantastic job.
Tom ;D
I have a little update on the layout build. This part of the build is slow moving but I still have my eye on the golden ring.
I wavered about a month on how I wanted to wire the staging area tracks and turnouts. I considered using LEDs and IR for train position indicators but decided against this method. Frank Baker, Erieman, uses this method as most of his staging tracks can't be viewed by the operator. My layout is a little different as I can see all of my staging tracks as they are only 10 inches below the second level benchwork. However, it will be difficult to see the turnout position.
This was the problem I was wavering on. On the middle and third levels I plan on using the Digitrax DS64 for turnout control but this option still won't give me the needed information for the lower level. There is a way to wire the DS64 with LED panel indicator lights but this requires two additional wiring steps. I decided to go with what I'm comfortable using.
I'm using a control panel wiht LED and a DPDT (double pole double throw) toggle switch to control the turnouts. I'm using a simple on/off switch for the staging track. My staging tracks are visable to the operator as the tracks are staggered so the operator can see when to stop the train.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071214164014.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I gave a complete tutorial on the other forum on how I build my control panels. You can view it here.
http://www.kitforums.com/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=3262&start=300 (http://www.kitforums.com/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=3262&start=300)
This is how I'm doing the staging level control panel.
Continued tomorrow evening.
I decided the lower level control panel would be located on the end of the staging yard where the various trains would be headed. I took a piece of cardstock (3X3' cardboard @ $3.49) from Sam Flax and cut a section for the panel. I then drew lines where the tracks would be located. I then marked where the toggles and LEDs would go. I then used quick grips to hold the panel on position.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071214162527.jpeg)
I then placed the LED holders and nuts on the cardboard indicating the locations on the panel.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071214162552.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Being satisfied with the panel, I used the cardboard as a template and cut a piece of 1/8" Masonite. I painted the Masonite a semi-gloss green. The paint came from Lowes @ $28.00 a gallon. The paint is by Olympic and is #C63-5 Country Club Green.
I went with a semi-gloss as it is easier to keep clean. I used an ege shell finish on the last control panel and it very easily showed marks and smears.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071214162612.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
You can see in the next photo that I have started installing the toggles and LEDs.
The toggles on the left are simple ON/OFF toggles to the staging tracks. I needed these in order to turn off the power to the tracks. With the locos on all staging tracks, the sound is very distracting with all the steam and diesel sounds going at the same time.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071214162632.jpeg)
And, here I've started the wiring process to the panel.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071214162649.jpeg)
This system is very simple. The position of the green light is the position of the turnout and the clear track for the train. I call this "Getting a green board".
Tom,
Green with envy; never bored. 8)
looking good , and giving me ideas. Thanks
Beautiful work. First class all the way.
John
Quote from: ACL1504 on December 08, 2014, 05:05:03 PM
I went with a semi-gloss as it is easier to keep clean. I used an ege shell finish on the last control panel and it very easily showed marks and smears. Continued in a few.
Excellent idea, as you never know what them other SBG fellers are gonna have on their fingers!
SBG Bobby may smear any thing from paint to whatever,
and SBG Cuse may smear onion juice, ketchup, and mustard, with a little ice cream mixed in for Jaime!!
Quote from: BandOGuy on December 08, 2014, 05:51:19 PM
Tom,
Green with envy; never bored. 8)
Chip,
I appreciate you stopping by and hope I never let you get bored.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on December 08, 2014, 05:56:49 PM
looking good , and giving me ideas. Thanks
Jan,
Thanks, much appreciated. Giving ideas and getting them is what our forum is all about. Well, that and great friends.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on December 08, 2014, 06:05:53 PM
Beautiful work. First class all the way.
John
SBG John,
Thanks Butty, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on December 08, 2014, 09:57:38 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on December 08, 2014, 05:05:03 PM
I went with a semi-gloss as it is easier to keep clean. I used an ege shell finish on the last control panel and it very easily showed marks and smears. Continued in a few.
Excellent idea, as you never know what them other SBG fellers are gonna have on their fingers!
SBG Bobby may smear any thing from paint to whatever,
and SBG Cuse may smear onion juice, ketchup, and mustard, with a little ice cream mixed in for Jaime!!
Thanks Gamn from Lil Tommy! The semi-gloss turned out to be a great idea as I've been up against it installing the toggles and LEDs and left not one mark! I can't say that about the egg shell finish.
Tom ;D
I have a little update on the layout. Yesterday I worked on installing the nine tortoise turnouts on the South end. I had to install one from the top side as it was directly above a cross support 1X4 under the plywood.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131214154514.jpeg)
Continued in a few. I forgot to crop the new pictures.
After getting the Tortoise turnouts installed it was time to get them all wired into the southend panel. I ran the wires to the panel after I finished installing the LEDs and toggles.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131214154534.jpeg)
I tested each one as I installed the wiring and it all worked. Thank goodness.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131214154603.jpeg)
I'll make a smaller control panel for the northend of the yard. The panel won't have the ON/OFF toggles as does the southend.
Here is a look at the wiring on the inside of the panel. It isn't "Vika Chandler" looking but neat enough for me!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131214154632.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I'm using an old MRC Control Master 20 Power Center for the turnouts. It has more than enough power for the turnouts on the lower level. In fact, this is the same Power Center source I used to power all of the 110 Tortoise turnouts on my old layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131214154724.jpeg)
I have many other options for the use of the power source as well. Note this is a power source with a hand held throttle.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131214154749.jpeg)
The throttle has a speed control from 1 to 10. I can control the speed of the turnout throw with the throttle. As I install more turnouts, I'll increase the speed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131214154808.jpeg)
Tom
You have been busy. I think your wiring looks great. Vikas does have amazing wiring ;D . I haven't posted any pictures of the wiring in my control panels since he post his wiring pictures. ::) I can't imagine what his sock drawer looks like. If you read this Vikas your layout is world class (we need more pictures) and next time you visit the F&SM don't look under the benchwork.
Good Morning Tom,
Just stopped by to check out your progress. As usual , looking great. How about some more overall pics of both sides when you get a chance. Just saying. Keep up the good work. How many days until you are officially retired? You are going to like it. I'm going on year 6. Need to back some scenery, keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: S&S RR on December 13, 2014, 09:46:47 PM
Tom
You have been busy. I think your wiring looks great. Vikas does have amazing wiring ;D . I haven't posted any pictures of the wiring in my control panels since he post his wiring pictures. ::) I can't imagine what his sock drawer looks like. If you read this Vikas your layout is world class (we need more pictures) and next time you visit the F&SM don't look under the benchwork.
John,
Thanks for checking in. I'm working on the second panel now. I've had five part time jobs since my official retirement in December of 1998. OMG, it's been 16 years already. Where does the time go?
Needless to say, I'm very much looking forward to a FULL retirement.
Tom
Quote from: Erieman on December 14, 2014, 01:38:29 PM
Good Morning Tom,
Just stopped by to check out your progress. As usual , looking great. How about some more overall pics of both sides when you get a chance. Just saying. Keep up the good work. How many days until you are officially retired? You are going to like it. I'm going on year 6. Need to back some scenery, keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
Afternoon Frank,
Thanks for checking in and it was great Skyping with you this afternoon. I'll get more pictures going in week or so.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on December 14, 2014, 03:25:12 PM
Quote from: Erieman on December 14, 2014, 01:38:29 PM
Good Morning Tom,
Just stopped by to check out your progress. As usual , looking great. How about some more overall pics of both sides when you get a chance. Just saying. Keep up the good work. How many days until you are officially retired? You are going to like it. I'm going on year 6. Need to back some scenery, keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
Afternoon Frank,
Thanks for checking in and it was great Skyping with you this afternoon. I'll get more pictures going in week or so.
Tom ;D
Good Afternoon Tom,
I told you that you would like using Skype. Now i have to get a longer cord for the camera. This would allow me to show you so much more of the layout. The biggest problem that I have is the amount of bars on my computer. This room does not get good reception because of the wire screen built into the stucco exterior walls. Really like seeing the progress you are making on the layout. Looks great. So much to do, and so little time, but retirement will be a big help. You should be quite far along by the time that the NMRA nationals roll around in 2017.
Have a great day.
Frank / Erieman
I was able to get a little more done on the layout this past week or so. I finished the East staging yard control panel.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271214181521.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271214181521.jpeg)
I also moved the Super Chief Command Control to this end of the layout. I'm using the Super Chief as I mentioned. I'm also using Digitrax PS 2012 for track power. This unit gives me enough power 18v/15A and will power the three levels.
I usgraded from the 100 to the DCS200 for the command station as this gives me 8A for the staging areas. I'm using the DB200+ for the addition power boosters for the levels. I'll have the upper yards, diesel facility and roundhouse on their own boosters.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271214181546.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271214181546.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I also moved the MRC Power Command unit to this end. This unit controls the power to the Tortoise turnouts as mentioned earlier.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271214181614.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271214181614.jpeg)
I've determined that I will be able to store 14 to 16 passenger trains on the East side. These will be either an ABA or AB units with 10-11 Walthers passenger cars. If I drop a car or two off each train, I can get 18 passenger trains on this side. These will be diesel only.
The West staging yard will be all steam. In the next two photos you can see I only have four passenger trains and a few freight with lots of space available.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271214181910.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271214181910.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271214181931.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271214181931.jpeg)
The next two weeks will see me finishing the West staging yard, installing and wiring the turnouts and adding two additional control panels.
Quote from: Erieman on December 15, 2014, 03:34:43 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on December 14, 2014, 03:25:12 PM
Quote from: Erieman on December 14, 2014, 01:38:29 PM
Good Morning Tom,
Just stopped by to check out your progress. As usual , looking great. How about some more overall pics of both sides when you get a chance. Just saying. Keep up the good work. How many days until you are officially retired? You are going to like it. I'm going on year 6. Need to back some scenery, keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
Afternoon Frank,
Thanks for checking in and it was great Skyping with you this afternoon. I'll get more pictures going in week or so.
Tom ;D
Good Afternoon Tom,
I told you that you would like using Skype. Now i have to get a longer cord for the camera. This would allow me to show you so much more of the layout. The biggest problem that I have is the amount of bars on my computer. This room does not get good reception because of the wire screen built into the stucco exterior walls. Really like seeing the progress you are making on the layout. Looks great. So much to do, and so little time, but retirement will be a big help. You should be quite far along by the time that the NMRA nationals roll around in 2017.
Have a great day.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Yes, the Skype has been quite intertaining and a big learning curve as well. But, it sure is fun.
I have two days at work left as I told them I wans't workiong on December 31. Those will most likely be the longest days ever.
Hope you and Phyllis had a great Christmas! We did and Santa was very good to little old me.
Tom ;D
Well, in the first week of retirement I got a lot done. I started and finished the work on the West Staging Yard, WSY. I wasn't sure how it would turn out as the turnouts had to be arranged differently on the north end. However, it all worked out and I'm very pleased.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115172925.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115172925.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115172831.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115172831.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115172901.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115172901.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Tom.......
Looks good to me.......
see ya
Bob
Fast forward and you see it is finished.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115172953.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115172953.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173014.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173014.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173049.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173049.jpeg)
Tomorrow I'll go over an issue I had and how I resolved it.
Quote from: bparrish on January 09, 2015, 05:41:29 PM
Tom.......
Looks good to me.......
see ya
Bob
Thanks Bob, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Excellent , wish I was 12 years older , sorta , kinda , eh maybe not ;)
Quote
Tomorrow I'll go over an issue I had and how I resolved it.
Why no cork roadbed for sound deadening?
Tom,
Looking great. I especially like the wall of boxes!!! Only kidding, It must feel like you are working in a tunnel. You are moving right along. Pretty soon you will be on level two and then it should get real interesting. That's a lot of storage tracks. Is your intention that one yard is East Bound traffic and the other yard is for West bound traffic? Plenty of storage on your layout. you could probably go for the Guiness World Record for the longest train by coupling all the trains together.
Keep posting pictures of your progress. I was going to work on track and scenery, but have gotten wrapped up on the East end Market Structure. This is not good. Tomorrow is another day. Have a great weekend.
Frank / Erieman
Looking good.....how's the back? 8)
Glad to see Diet Pepsi back on the bench!!
It's already producing great results - now, I'm comfortable that thangs are gonna move on smoothly!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Well, unless that Cuse boy buys another loco that needs worked on!! ::) ::) ::)
Even if it's your thread, I can't cut him no slack!!!
Nice looking yard. What's the little car for? Is it a level on it or a light? How did you attach the track?
Jeff
Quote from: Janbouli on January 09, 2015, 05:59:59 PM
Excellent , wish I was 12 years older , sorta , kinda , eh maybe not ;)
Jan,
Thank you, much appreciated. Don't rush your retirement and senior days. I think you should avoid old age at any cost, well, maybe except one! 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on January 10, 2015, 07:34:55 AM
Nice looking yard. What's the little car for? Is it a level on it or a light? How did you attach the track?
Jeff
Jeff,
Thank for stopping by, much appreciated. The little car is an old Athearn boxcar underframe and deck. I glued a small weight and level on the top. I use this car to check the level of my track work. It saves problems with the track down the line. I've found that flex track can have a slight rise in it that causes uncoupling. Just call it insurance.
I'll go over the securing of the track this evening.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100115074247.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100115074247.jpeg)
Looking good Tom!! Your getting a lot done. I need to get down there and see it in person once I shake this cold.
Bill
Quote from: Randee on January 09, 2015, 06:01:00 PM
Quote
Tomorrow I'll go over an issue I had and how I resolved it.
Why no cork roadbed for sound deadening?
Randee,
The cork question is an excellent question. I've had a couple of visitors ask the same thing. This is the lower level staging of the tree levels. It serves only to store the trains. All the trains are DCC/Sound installed. With the sound of the locos, there is no perceivable noise other than the loco diesel and steam sounds.
Another reason for no cork is the fact the framing for the second level is only going to be 10 inches above the staging level. The 10 inches gives me plenty of room to reach in if needed and I figured it would be easier with the track if an issue should arise. I think the cost of adding cork to the bottom/staging level would have been close to $270.00.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on January 10, 2015, 07:51:30 AM
Looking good Tom!! Your getting a lot done. I need to get down there and see it in person once I shake this cold.
Bill
Bill,
Thanks Butty and I'm sorry you still have the cold. Most definitely stay up north until you are over it. Also, I'm really loving this retirement gig!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on January 09, 2015, 08:39:53 PM
Tom,
Looking great. I especially like the wall of boxes!!! Only kidding, It must feel like you are working in a tunnel. You are moving right along. Pretty soon you will be on level two and then it should get real interesting. That's a lot of storage tracks. Is your intention that one yard is East Bound traffic and the other yard is for West bound traffic? Plenty of storage on your layout. you could probably go for the Guiness World Record for the longest train by coupling all the trains together.
Keep posting pictures of your progress. I was going to work on track and scenery, but have gotten wrapped up on the East end Market Structure. This is not good. Tomorrow is another day. Have a great weekend.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
I'm thinking the wall of boxes is becoming the "wall of shame" as its a shame I have that much train stuff yet to unpack. The older layout gave me the room to store all the stuff "down under". As I get the lower level wiring finished I can unpack 90% of it and free up the room in the middle. No need to put it under the benchwork and just have to move it again.
Ref the inbound and outbound traffic - The lower level is only storage to change trains. Here is the plan and the way the tracks are set.
A train comes off the Ovalix headed Northbound on the westside. If the spot for that train is on the west side then it simply takes that spot. If the train has the assigned spot on the east side then it bypasses the west staging and moves around the room to that assigned location on the east side.
A train entering the layout from the west side will move around the room, bypass the east staging and enter the Ovalix. From there the train can either get off at the second level or go to the top level. A train stored on the east side enters the ovalix to the other two levels.
Gee, I'm a bit confused just saying all that. Just kidding, it only took me six months to figure it out! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom
Quote from: GPdemayo on January 09, 2015, 08:55:48 PM
Looking good.....how's the back? 8)
Greg,
Good to see you this morning. Thanks for checking in. The backs hurts like I'm old. Wait, I am!
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on January 09, 2015, 09:24:25 PM
Glad to see Diet Pepsi back on the bench!!
It's already producing great results - now, I'm comfortable that thangs are gonna move on smoothly!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Well, unless that Cuse boy buys another loco that needs worked on!! ::) ::) ::)
Even if it's your thread, I can't cut him no slack!!!
Gman,
Good to see you my friend. Yes, the Diet Pepsi keeps me moving on the line. I do have two builds I'll be doing next month for a couple of peeps. I'll be doing a thread on each as well.
Cuse is no problem and I'd love to weather another of his locos.
Tom ;D
Got that in writing, Tom ;D
Once the credit card stops smoking from Christmas shopping, I'll give Mr Blackstone a call! ;)
John
Wow! There's a lot more staging tracks on the West Yard than I had imagined. :D You know you're going to have to mark the panels or walls with compass points for those of us who can't remember which way is which? ;D
Glad to see you're putting your retirement to good use. ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 10, 2015, 07:59:33 AM
Quote from: Randee on January 09, 2015, 06:01:00 PM
Quote
Tomorrow I'll go over an issue I had and how I resolved it.
Why no cork roadbed for sound deadening?
Randee,
The cork question is an excellent question. I've had a couple of visitors ask the same thing. This is the lower level staging of the tree levels. It serves only to store the trains. All the trains are DCC/Sound installed. With the sound of the locos, there is no perceivable noise other than the loco diesel and steam sounds.
Another reason for no cork is the fact the framing for the second level is only going to be 10 inches above the staging level. The 10 inches gives me plenty of room to reach in if needed and I figured it would be easier with the track if an issue should arise. I think the cost of adding cork to the bottom/staging level would have been close to $270.00.
Tom ;D
Ok, the installed sound is a good idea to mask the noise in the Ovalix...
Quote from: Cuse on January 10, 2015, 08:35:25 AM
Got that in writing, Tom ;D
Once the credit card stops smoking from Christmas shopping, I'll give Mr Blackstone a call! ;)
John
John,
You know where I'll be when the time comes.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on January 10, 2015, 09:01:19 AM
Wow! There's a lot more staging tracks on the West Yard than I had imagined. :D You know you're going to have to mark the panels or walls with compass points for those of us who can't remember which way is which? ;D
Glad to see you're putting your retirement to good use. ;D
Bob,
It appears more complicated than it actaully is. One way in and one way out! And, I need the space for all the trains packed in the boxes. ;)
The first week has been excellent. I'm really liking this retirement thingy!
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 10, 2015, 04:32:43 PM
Quote from: ReadingBob on January 10, 2015, 09:01:19 AM
Wow! There's a lot more staging tracks on the West Yard than I had imagined. :D You know you're going to have to mark the panels or walls with compass points for those of us who can't remember which way is which? ;D
Glad to see you're putting your retirement to good use. ;D
Bob,
It appears more complicated than it actaully is. One way in and one way out! And, I need the space for all the trains packed in the boxes. ;)
The first week has been excellent. I'm really liking this retirement thingy!
Tom ;D
It only gets better :) trust me...
Quote from: Randee on January 10, 2015, 12:15:21 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 10, 2015, 07:59:33 AM
Quote from: Randee on January 09, 2015, 06:01:00 PM
Quote
Tomorrow I'll go over an issue I had and how I resolved it.
Why no cork roadbed for sound deadening?
Randee,
The cork question is an excellent question. I've had a couple of visitors ask the same thing. This is the lower level staging of the tree levels. It serves only to store the trains. All the trains are DCC/Sound installed. With the sound of the locos, there is no perceivable noise other than the loco diesel and steam sounds.
Another reason for no cork is the fact the framing for the second level is only going to be 10 inches above the staging level. The 10 inches gives me plenty of room to reach in if needed and I figured it would be easier with the track if an issue should arise. I think the cost of adding cork to the bottom/staging level would have been close to $270.00.
Tom ;D
Ok, the installed sound is a good idea to mask the noise in the Ovalix...
Runs and sounds like a Swiss watch.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Randee on January 10, 2015, 04:33:38 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 10, 2015, 04:32:43 PM
Quote from: ReadingBob on January 10, 2015, 09:01:19 AM
Wow! There's a lot more staging tracks on the West Yard than I had imagined. :D You know you're going to have to mark the panels or walls with compass points for those of us who can't remember which way is which? ;D
Glad to see you're putting your retirement to good use. ;D
Bob,
It appears more complicated than it actaully is. One way in and one way out! And, I need the space for all the trains packed in the boxes. ;)
The first week has been excellent. I'm really liking this retirement thingy!
Tom ;D
It only gets better :) trust me...
Yes, I do trust you. I should have done this years ago! I was going to retire after EXPO 2012 and let them talk me into staying. Not this time though! 8) 8)
Tom ;D
One issue that arose on the West Staging Yard was one of the turnouts was directly over another brace. I mounted the other Tortoise machine on the top to avoid moving the turnout.
This time I moved the turnout. By doing this I knew it would also change the distance between the tracks. As I wanted the track to remain parallel to each other, I needed to add the correct distance between the turnouts. Back to this in a moment.
The other tracks are 5/8" apart tie to tie or 2 inches on center. 5/8" is the exact width of the aluminum Ribbon Rail section.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173222.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173222.jpeg)
As I secured and added the flex track ,I kept the piece of aluminum tight against both track ties.
Since I would have a larger gap between the other track I used my Grandfathers 24" Arthur Gaebel steel ruler. I layed the tracks on opposite sides of the ruler and measured the distance I needed to move the turnout so the track ties would fit.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173140.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173140.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
After rail joining the track to the turnout, I determined I needed a piece of track 5 1/8" long. This gave me the correct length to keep the track aligned to the other one. You can see in this next photo the 5 1/8" piece of track between the two turnouts.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173124.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173124.jpeg)
And here is how it looks. Once this issue was resloved I was able to get back to the 5/8" between the ties.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173108.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
There is a larger distance between the wall track and the others as I wanted to keep the wall track straight off the north end turnouts.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115172953.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115172953.jpeg)
To do this I needed to move the last track out further of meet the other end.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173034.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173034.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Dr. Jeff, Zephyrus52246 (http://modelersforum.com/index.php?action=profile;u=41), asked how I attached the track to the plywood.
Some people glue the track down using either glue or silicone. I don't like either method as it doesn't allow the track to breathe. By breathe I mean to change as in expand or contract with the weather. I've seen track that had buckled due to the humidity in the room and the track being so secure it couldn't breath/move. No, not me!
Here is what I did with all the lower level staging track and the track on the Ovalix.
Using a small dremel tool and either a # 78, 79 or 80 drill bit, I drilled a hole in the center of the track tie.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173243.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173243.jpeg)
I use the Micro Engineering track spikes. I say spikes here when in reality they are very small and sharp track nails. ME sells a long and medium length, I've used both on the staging with no issues.
I mount the drill bit in the Dremel a little shorter than the short nail but long enough to drill through the ME track tie as well. This way when the hole is drilled you have a pilot hole for the nail in the tie and plywood and room to secure it into the plywood. I've enlarged the next photo to show the nail so it appears much larger than it actually is.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173306.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173306.jpeg)
I then use a 3/32 nail punch and a small hammer to "drive" home the spike/nail. I tap it so that it is secure to the tie. This 3/32 nail punch has a round head and the nail head fits into it perfectly so it doesn't move when hammered.
NOTE: Do not "hammer" the spike/nail to hard as it will bend the tie and pull the track out of gauge.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173322.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090115173322.jpeg)
As I move down the track I roll the "level car" over my work to check the track level. I do all this to make sure I have no problems in the future. Not saying this will prevent all derailments as we all know "snit happens". However, this goes a long way to help prevent it.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100115074247.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100115074247.jpeg)
Thanks for following along on the adventure.
The "guts" of the layout are coming along nicely. I admire your attention to detail in your engineering of the hidden track. Obviously, the investment you're making now in time will pay off later in preserving your sanity.
John
Tom...great progress....I'm sure you're really liking the retirement gig.....
Drill, hammer, punch, repeat..... ;D
Quote from: Cuse on January 11, 2015, 07:33:37 AM
The "guts" of the layout are coming along nicely. I admire your attention to detail in your engineering of the hidden track. Obviously, the investment you're making now in time will pay off later in preserving your sanity.
John
John,
Thanks very much, it is a bit time consuming but should be well worth the effort in the long run. I see a Southern SBG in the next couple of months to check it all out.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jlgrove on January 11, 2015, 07:41:44 AM
Tom...great progress....I'm sure you're really liking the retirement gig.....
Jeff,
Thank you, much appreciated. So far retirement is all that I hoped it would be, and more to boot. Looking forward to seeing you at the EXPO.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on January 11, 2015, 08:59:33 AM
Drill, hammer, punch, repeat..... ;D
And repeat, and repeat and repeat, etc and then more of the same and finally then some more.
Tom ;D
I hate to be the spelling/grammar police, but breath is to breathe in and out....as in "take a breath and breathe..."
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Thanks for the explanation, Tom. Looks like a lot of work. I'm always worried while nailing down the track if you push too hard it'll bend the tie and pull the track out of gauge.
Jeff
Hi there,
Tom,your work is looking great.Big progress is going on .... :) :) :)
Cheers,Chris
Quote from: Randee on January 11, 2015, 02:28:15 PM
I hate to be the spelling/grammar police, but breath is to breathe in and out....as in "take a breath and breathe..."
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Randee,
Thanks for catching the spelling error. I should have caught the error. However, I do mean for the track to "breathe" as in a figure of speach. I should have simply said, "to allow the track to move with the humidity level in the room".
Thanks for following along, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on January 11, 2015, 05:15:50 PM
Thanks for the explanation, Tom. Looks like a lot of work. I'm always worried while nailing down the track if you push too hard it'll bend the tie and pull the track out of gauge.
Jeff
Jeff,
"tacking or nailing" the track isn't the issue. The issue is as you mentioned, nailing it to tight causing it to become out of gauge. I've never had the problem and I've been tacking the track with ME nails for the past 20+ years.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on January 12, 2015, 11:26:08 AM
Hi there,
Tom,your work is looking great.Big progress is going on .... :) :) :)
Cheers,Chris
Hey Chris,
It's been a long time, thanks for stopping by. I have been busy on trhe layout. And, more is coming.
Tom ;D
Tom
You are moving right along - retirement is agreeing with you. I decided to go back to full time retirement myself for now, working was everything I remembered it was.
Quote from: S&S RR on January 12, 2015, 03:32:49 PM
Tom
You are moving right along - retirement is agreeing with you. I decided to go back to full time retirement myself for now, working was everything I remembered it was.
John,
Thanks very much. I has been alot more fun than working part time after the first retirement.
Something really big will have to come my way to even entice me out of retirement this time around.
I've come to the conclusion that working after retirement just isn't worth all the extra taxes that come with it!
Tom ;D
Tom,
Thanks for letting drop in for a first hand update last night. Very impressive indeed. The vision for the second and third level is equally impressive. It's going to be a lot of fun following the build of the layout. Just let me know if there's anything I can do to help. :D
Bob,
I very much enjoyed our visit yesterday and thanks for listening to me prattle on about the future of the A&S.
Now, don't worry as I will be calling on you in the future. 8)
8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 16, 2015, 10:13:08 AM
Bob,
I very much enjoyed our visit yesterday and thanks for listening to me prattle on about the future of the A&S.
Now, don't worry as I will be calling on you in the future. 8)
8) 8)
Tom ;D
I didn't know you could "prattle".....you told me every utterance you made was profound! :o
AKA - Profound Prattling!! or Probable Perp!!!
Quote from: GPdemayo on January 16, 2015, 03:26:25 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 16, 2015, 10:13:08 AM
Bob,
I very much enjoyed our visit yesterday and thanks for listening to me prattle on about the future of the A&S.
Now, don't worry as I will be calling on you in the future. 8)
8) 8)
Tom ;D
I didn't know you could "prattle".....you told me every utterance you made was profound! :o
Gregory,
Every utterance I make is very "profound" but my "prattling" often turns out to be a short version of a screed. I'm quite ebullient this fine morning and you can't bother me with your expostulations. Now, excuse me as its time for my morning ablution.
This should keep you busy for awhile. If you have problems, ask Pegi for help!
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on January 16, 2015, 09:20:53 PM
AKA - Profound Prattling!! or Probable Perp!!!
Gamn,
I simply have one word for your comment!
EXACTLY! Tom ;D
What he said!
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 17, 2015, 08:07:47 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on January 16, 2015, 03:26:25 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 16, 2015, 10:13:08 AM
Bob,
I very much enjoyed our visit yesterday and thanks for listening to me prattle on about the future of the A&S.
Now, don't worry as I will be calling on you in the future. 8)
8) 8)
Tom ;D
I didn't know you could "prattle".....you told me every utterance you made was profound! :o
Gregory,
Every utterance I make is very "profound" but my "prattling" often turns out to be a short version of a screed. I'm quite ebullient this fine morning and you can't bother me with your expostulations. Now, excuse me as its time for my morning ablution.
This should keep you busy for awhile. If you have problems, ask Pegi for help!
Tom ;D
Okay.....I give......Pegi said I was on my own with this one. ;D ;D ;D
Please note that everything Dr. Evil says is profound.
;D ;D ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on January 22, 2015, 05:15:10 PM
Please note that everything Dr. Evil says is profound.
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
Very good to see you my friend, profoundly so, profoundly so!
Tom, AKA: Dr. Evil/Fire Starter 8)
Between Tom and Bruce.........
I'm not sure they fall into a category of evil but I do know that they keep the diet Coke industry afloat.
Perhaps they need to be relegated to the ranks of riff - raff.
I'll see what Dave .......... riff - raff #1 has to say.
We'll soon find out ! ! ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
I would be very honored to be a part of the Riff-Raff crowd.
Tom ;D
Tom...
Recall the immortal words of Groucho Marx
"I would not be a member of any organization that would have me as a member!"
see ya
Bob
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 22, 2015, 06:53:40 PM
I would be very honored to be a part of the Riff-Raff crowd. Tom ;D
You're already a part of the Riff-Raff crowd, but since the other high-ranking Riff-Raff ossifer
agrees, I'll tap you on the shoulder with a piece of used and abused stripwood and make you an
official member in good standing!!
Quote from: bparrish on January 22, 2015, 06:57:07 PM
Tom...
Recall the immortal words of Groucho Marx
"I would not be a member of any organization that would have me as a member!"
see ya
Bob
Yes, and for this very reason I've pretty much been a GDI, Gosh Dang Independant most of my life.
Tom 8)
Quote from: gnatshop on January 22, 2015, 08:25:32 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 22, 2015, 06:53:40 PM
I would be very honored to be a part of the Riff-Raff crowd. Tom ;D
You're already a part of the Riff-Raff crowd, but since the other high-ranking Riff-Raff ossifer
agrees, I'll tap you on the shoulder with a piece of used and abused stripwood and make you an
official member in good standing!!
Does this mean I can only bathe on Saturday night?
I haven't been idle and did finish the third of four control panels for the lower level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131747.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131747.jpeg)
Prior to installing, or should I say reinstalling the tortoise motors, I rewired the motors and tested them. The last thing I want to do is install one and have it no longer working.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131805.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131805.jpeg)
I also made a new storage area under the yard area. I move my brass locos.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131823.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131823.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131849.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131849.jpeg)
Now to finish the fourth panel for the lower level.
Quote from: bparrish on January 22, 2015, 06:44:02 PM
Between Tom and Bruce.........
I'm not sure they fall into a category of evil but I do know that they keep the diet Coke industry afloat.
Perhaps they need to be relegated to the ranks of riff - raff.
I'll see what Dave .......... riff - raff #1 has to say.
We'll soon find out ! ! ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
I resemble David being monikered as riff-raff! >:( Sorry to respond to this in such tardy fashion: been busy digging out of snowbanks and deflating footballs.
Quote from: BandOGuy on January 27, 2015, 03:03:06 PM
Quote from: bparrish on January 22, 2015, 06:44:02 PM
Between Tom and Bruce.........
I'm not sure they fall into a category of evil but I do know that they keep the diet Coke industry afloat.
Perhaps they need to be relegated to the ranks of riff - raff.
I'll see what Dave .......... riff - raff #1 has to say.
We'll soon find out ! ! ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
I resemble David being monikered as riff-raff! >:( Sorry to respond to this in such tardy fashion: been busy digging out of snowbanks and deflating footballs.
Not to worry, no wet or dry snow in O'town but it is a beautiful sunny day. And, for the record, all riff-raff are welcome to the A&S. Wonder why the Pats have all the cheating scandals. Is there fire in the smoke? I'm pulling for the Pats to win none the less as they are in my Dophins league.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 27, 2015, 01:13:26 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on January 22, 2015, 08:25:32 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 22, 2015, 06:53:40 PM
I would be very honored to be a part of the Riff-Raff crowd. Tom ;D
You're already a part of the Riff-Raff crowd, but since the other high-ranking Riff-Raff ossifer
agrees, I'll tap you on the shoulder with a piece of used and abused stripwood and make you an
official member in good standing!!
Does this mean I can only bathe on Saturday night?
You got it!! But, the well might be about dry by Satiddy night!
The Ledbetters take their bathes earlier on Satiddy to be ready for their weekly trip to the joints
in town!
Quote from: BandOGuy on January 27, 2015, 03:03:06 PM
I resemble David being monikered as riff-raff! >:( Sorry to respond to this in such tardy fashion: been busy digging out of snowbanks and deflating footballs.
I'm riff-raff to the core - and dam proud of it!!! ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 27, 2015, 01:23:04 PM
I haven't been idle and did finish the third of four control panels for the lower level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131747.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131747.jpeg)
Prior to installing, or should I say reinstalling the tortoise motors, I rewired the motors and tested them. The last thing I want to do is install one and have it no longer working.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131805.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131805.jpeg)
I also made a new storage area under the yard area. I move my brass locos.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131823.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131823.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131849.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270115131849.jpeg)
Now to finish the fourth panel for the lower level.
Looks great Tom - and I think you have room on the shelf for one or two more. ;D
John,
There was a time when I did need more but I don't think I'll get all these painted and DCC installed.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on January 22, 2015, 06:44:02 PM
Between Tom and Bruce.........
I'm not sure they fall into a category of evil but I do know that they keep the diet Coke industry afloat.
Perhaps they need to be relegated to the ranks of riff - raff.
I'll see what Dave .......... riff - raff #1 has to say.
We'll soon find out ! ! ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Bobby the P,
You should know better by now. We don't keep the "Diet Coke" folks in the Black. It's the "Diet Pepsi" Industry that would suffer greatly if we stopped drinking the sauce. Just look what happened to the stock market a few months back when Tom tried to give up the sauce. Thousands of people lost their jobs and had to cross the border into Mexico to look for work. It was a truly sad time in the history of our nation! And to think that it happened during the holiday season no less. I'm not sure how the Pepsi corporation was able to continue on without Tom's normal purchases. I hear that they give big buyers like Tom a huge discount when you order in such large quantities.
BTW Dr. Evil, you should have taken my advice a few years ago and had that Pepsi pipeline built right to your home. Just think of all the trips to the grocery store that would have saved you! And you could have used that gas money to fund all the layout changes! So speaking of that, How's the Extreme Layout Makeover (i.e. ELM) coming along Dr. Evil?
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
Good to see you my friend. Where have you been hiding?
I do get my Diet Pepsi at a discount. Not the kind of discount where I know a distributor or anything. I wait for it to go on sale at a really rediculous price and then LOAD UP ON THE JUICE!
And, I tried the pipeline but the stupid City of Orlando wouldn't give me the permit as they said, "If we do it for you, we'll have to permit the neighbor to pipe in coke." 8) 8) 8) I said what's new most of the City is on Coke now, sniff sniff! :-X
:-X
An update will follow this post my friend.
Tom ;D
The west staging area is finished and the four and final control panel for the south end is complete and wired.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172313.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172313.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172336.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172336.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
This past week I started the bench work on the second level. I used 1X4 lumber and attached 2X2 block to the 1X4 on 18" centers. I used 1 5/8" dry wall screws to attach the 2X2's.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171538.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171538.jpeg)
I used tapcon screws to attach the 1X4 to the wall through the drywall and into the cinder blocks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171500.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171500.jpeg)
I then added the outside 1X4, 24" from the wall. Not the mounted 1X4 but the wall itself.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171558.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171558.jpeg)
I then added the cross bracing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171616.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171616.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171831.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171831.jpeg)
When the 8ft. section was complete, I then started on the portion fo the second level that runs down the center of the room. I used several Quick Grips to hold everything so I could check and make sure everything was level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171715.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171715.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171731.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171731.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171802.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171802.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Fast forward and 24 feet of center isle second level is complete including buss wires.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171930.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171930.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171908.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171908.jpeg)
The center isle will be the town of Tohope. This doesn't mean "to hope" as in I get this layout finished. Tohope (to - ho - pe) is the Seminole Indian language meaning Fort. I hope all the cry babies in DC don't try to make me change the name to Fort. Ain't gonna happen.
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172253.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172253.jpeg)
On the far end of the second level you may notice a FSM kit.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172235.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172235.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172208.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172208.jpeg)
This is FSM Jefferies Point Stave & Heading Co. built by Reading Bob. I gave him the unbuilt kit and he gave me the built one. I think he had a fever at the time.
What better way to have the first structure on the layout than to have one built by a Master Kit Builder, Mr. Robert Butts (Reading Bob) and a SBG in good standing!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215171953.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172027.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172046.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172130.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172130.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172151.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172151.jpeg)
Yes, I know the outside lamp is upside down, or is it the downside up? It has been corrected.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060215172107.jpeg)
Everyone is now up to date on the A&S build.
Tom ;D
Great progress Tom! I'm happy to see the second level is starting to take shape. I'm honored to have built the first structure to find a home on the new layout. :-[ That was a really enjoyable kit to build and I'm looking forward to building it again sometime in the future. :D It's one of my favorite FSM kits.
Tom...I've been sitting in the back row watching your bench work come together. Now that Bob has started
you on beautiful and highly detailed craftsman kits, he has set the bar. You do realize that the future will
require equal detail throughout the layout. That is a blessing. I had the same experience many decades ago.
John
Okay, Tom,
How 'bout a preview of coming attractions. You have a plywood base for the big areas. What goes on top, please, layer by layer?
I've got the plywood down, but not sure what goes up next.
Thanks,
A lurker.
Cut Uncle Tommy some slack - when he was buildin' the center aisle, he dropped his Diet Pepsi and bent
over real quick to get it before it all spewed out!
Well, us old fart's backs don't like them quick and awkard movements much less pickin' up somethin' off
the floor!!
But he carried on and is makin' great progress - he just qualified for the Old Fart's 'CAN DO CLUB' with
a 'TOP NOTCH' gold star!!!
Quote from: BandOGuy on February 08, 2015, 07:08:35 PM
I've got the plywood down, but not sure what goes up next.
Thanks, A lurker.
First step is to cut a hole for MassiveRalph's swimmin'/peein' pond!!
Tom, I'll admit I am a little jealous. It is really taking shape.
Tom,,
Great talking with you earlier in the day. Skype can be such a great tool. I guess i saw your progress prior to your post, but this is looking awesome , my friend. Really a great job. Isn't nice to be retired and have a wife let you play all day on trains. Well, almost all day. I told you that you would like retirement!!!. Russ and I spent the afternoon replacing a control panel for one of the towns. The track configuration had changed, etc.,etc... Probably another day or two. I am also changing out the old PFM switch machines with tortoise machines. They just work so much better. I'll be on the roof painting the soffit tomorrow, but hoping to see more pics on the forum of your progress. Again, it is really coming along nicely. Keep up the good work.
Frank / Erieman
Most excellent progress Dr. Evil! Ya Know, I few years ago I was impressed by how fast you could build a Moon Base! But after seeing today's layout progress photos, I am more blown away than ever!
BTW, How did you get that realistic looking "Plywood color" on your tabletops?
Hehe
;D ;D ;D
Tom, put me in the jealous column. It's a nice structure with enough details to draw in the interest. Everything looks like it belonged there and nothing stood out; except the exceptional craftsmanship.
Marty
Tom
Looks great - what a nice way to start the structures!
BTW, The Pepsi corporation reported higher quarterly profits on today's report. Looks like Dr. Evil is buying Diet Pepsi again!
Of course, those of us who notice such things have also noted that there has been a significant amount of Model Railroad building going on down there in Orlando. Is there a correlation between these events? Dr. Evil purchases MORE Diet Pepsi, Pepsi Corporation reports higher profits and MORE model railroad building happens? Hmm.....
;D ;D ;D 8)
Tom,
I have been following along and am in awe of not only how quickly you are making major progress, but mostly of your excellent work!
Quote from: ReadingBob on February 08, 2015, 06:12:57 PM
Great progress Tom! I'm happy to see the second level is starting to take shape. I'm honored to have built the first structure to find a home on the new layout. :-[ That was a really enjoyable kit to build and I'm looking forward to building it again sometime in the future. :D It's one of my favorite FSM kits.
Bob,
Thanks for stopping by and checking in. The FSM kit is one of my favorites also. I'm very happy to have it built.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jbelwood on February 08, 2015, 07:01:54 PM
Tom...I've been sitting in the back row watching your bench work come together. Now that Bob has started
you on beautiful and highly detailed craftsman kits, he has set the bar. You do realize that the future will
require equal detail throughout the layout. That is a blessing. I had the same experience many decades ago.
John
John,
Thanks for checking in, much appreciated. Yes, this is one of Bob's kits but I have several I haven't pictured as yet, a few he has built and ones I've built. I had to box up and protect all the FSM and others structures already built during the old layout demolition. I'll be getting them out later this summer.
Yes, Bob has certainly set the bar but I'm also up to the challenge.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on February 08, 2015, 07:08:35 PM
Okay, Tom,
How 'bout a preview of coming attractions. You have a plywood base for the big areas. What goes on top, please, layer by layer?
I've got the plywood down, but not sure what goes up next.
Thanks,
A lurker.
Chip - a Lurker,
Thanks for the questions. I think we covered everything in our emails. If not, let me know.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on February 08, 2015, 08:36:35 PM
Cut Uncle Tommy some slack - when he was buildin' the center aisle, he dropped his Diet Pepsi and bent
over real quick to get it before it all spewed out!
Well, us old fart's backs don't like them quick and awkard movements much less pickin' up somethin' off
the floor!!
But he carried on and is makin' great progress - he just qualified for the Old Fart's 'CAN DO CLUB' with
a 'TOP NOTCH' gold star!!!
Gman,
How did you know? I was so fast I didn't loose one single drop of my favorite libation. However, I'm just now recovering from the sudden move. :'( :'( :'(
Tom ;D
Quote from: coors2u on February 08, 2015, 09:35:50 PM
Tom, I'll admit I am a little jealous. It is really taking shape.
Dustin,
Thanks very much. I'm having lots of fun on this build.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on February 08, 2015, 10:27:00 PM
Tom,,
Great talking with you earlier in the day. Skype can be such a great tool. I guess i saw your progress prior to your post, but this is looking awesome , my friend. Really a great job. Isn't nice to be retired and have a wife let you play all day on trains. Well, almost all day. I told you that you would like retirement!!!. Russ and I spent the afternoon replacing a control panel for one of the towns. The track configuration had changed, etc.,etc... Probably another day or two. I am also changing out the old PFM switch machines with tortoise machines. They just work so much better. I'll be on the roof painting the soffit tomorrow, but hoping to see more pics on the forum of your progress. Again, it is really coming along nicely. Keep up the good work.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
I'm a bit late responding to all these post. Thank you for the kind words and support. This has really been fun. Did I mention, I love retirement?
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on February 08, 2015, 11:58:34 PM
Most excellent progress Dr. Evil! Ya Know, I few years ago I was impressed by how fast you could build a Moon Base! But after seeing today's layout progress photos, I am more blown away than ever!
BTW, How did you get that realistic looking "Plywood color" on your tabletops?
Hehe
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
Very kind words my friend, thank you. I have time to be fast when necessary and the slowness to be patient when necessary. As far as the natural look of the plywood here is what I do.
I let the plywood age at the local Lowes's and when it's ready I pick it up and install it. Very simple process. 8) 8) 8)
Dr. Evil on Diet Pepsi. ;D
Quote from: martin.ojaste on February 09, 2015, 08:29:32 AM
Tom, put me in the jealous column. It's a nice structure with enough details to draw in the interest. Everything looks like it belonged there and nothing stood out; except the exceptional craftsmanship.
Marty
Marty,
Thanks for stopping by and posting a comment. I must admit I'm very fortunate to have Reading Bob building some kits for me. I need to get all I can before he starts his own layout. 8) 8) 8) He is a master at this.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on February 09, 2015, 09:33:02 PM
Tom
Looks great - what a nice way to start the structures!
John,
Thank you my friend. One can't go to wrong with a Bob Butts structure on the layout.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jerryrbeach on February 11, 2015, 04:35:45 PM
Tom,
I have been following along and am in awe of not only how quickly you are making major progress, but mostly of your excellent work!
Jerry,
You are very kind and I appreciate you checking in. Thanks for following along, its nice to know folks are interested in what I'm building.
Tom ;D
Today was a very productive workday on the Atlantic & Southern RR. I started the second level on the east side.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183454.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183454.jpeg)
The 1x4's were held on the wall with tapcon screws and the short 2x2's were screwed on from the back. The 2x2's are spaced every 18 inches. Oh wait, I explained all this in an earlier post. I'll just say it is a senior moment. My Babe would say, "It's nothing new".
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183516.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183516.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183536.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183536.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I even got the Judge to pull buss wire for me.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183553.jpeg)
Anyway, here is all we got done this afternoon.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183609.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183624.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 08, 2015, 04:53:32 PM
What better way to have the first structure on the layout than to have one built by a Master Kit Builder, Mr. Robert Butts (Reading Bob) and a SBG in good standing!
Does all that back-slappin' mean that it's his turn to buy BBQ ???
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183640.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183640.jpeg)
Here is how the east staging looks with the second level bracing in place.
Looking south towards the Ovalix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183737.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183737.jpeg)
Looking north from the Ovalix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250215183719.jpeg)
Quote from: gnatshop on February 25, 2015, 06:49:36 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 08, 2015, 04:53:32 PM
What better way to have the first structure on the layout than to have one built by a Master Kit Builder, Mr. Robert Butts (Reading Bob) and a SBG in good standing!
Does all that back-slappin' mean that it's his turn to buy BBQ ???
Gman,
No, He will never have to buy the BBQ. It's my treat everytime. As a SBG member, I only let him come by twice a year. ;D ;D ;D So I don't mind the cost!
Tom ;D
Oh, yeah! Did you have your doctor save your staples for holdin' the wirin' in place?
Only a cheap-*ss like me would think of that!! ;D ;D ;D
Tom,
You must have been going stir crazy, but you hit the ground running after the doc removed the stitches. You must be sore after all that work today. Looks great. Another couple of days and you will be laying track. No grass growing under your feet. Kudo's my friend.
Frank / Erieman
I'm glad you followed doctor's orders and waited to continue the layout work. ;D
Jeff
All is right with the world!
God is in heaven and Tom is back in the man cave.
Quote from: gnatshop on February 25, 2015, 06:59:50 PM
Oh, yeah! Did you have your doctor save your staples for holdin' the wirin' in place?
Only a cheap-*ss like me would think of that!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
After seeing the staples once they were removed, I felt it best to leave them with the DR. for the proper disposal. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on February 25, 2015, 09:30:45 PM
Tom,
You must have been going stir crazy, but you hit the ground running after the doc removed the stitches. You must be sore after all that work today. Looks great. Another couple of days and you will be laying track. No grass growing under your feet. Kudo's my friend.
Frank / Erieman
Thank you, the two weeks of non-railroad activity is not my style. But, I did get two structures finished. Yes, my aching back is very sore this morning. I over did the benchwork thing just a little. You know "it hurts so good". I'm going to do it again today.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on February 25, 2015, 11:50:04 PM
I'm glad you followed doctor's orders and waited to continue the layout work. ;D
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
I follow directions very well. The Dr. said, "Tom, I want you to treat the shoulder with much respect!" I certainly know how to read between the lines.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on February 26, 2015, 09:59:14 AM
All is right with the world!
God is in heaven and Tom is back in the man cave.
Amen brother, Amen!
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 25, 2015, 06:52:51 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on February 25, 2015, 06:49:36 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 08, 2015, 04:53:32 PM
What better way to have the first structure on the layout than to have one built by a Master Kit Builder, Mr. Robert Butts (Reading Bob) and a SBG in good standing!
Does all that back-slappin' mean that it's his turn to buy BBQ ???
Gman,
No, He will never have to buy the BBQ. It's my treat everytime. As a SBG member, I only let him come by twice a year. ;D ;D ;D So I don't mind the cost!
Tom ;D
Hey....did I mention that we're stopping at every BBQ between Orlando and Scranton on our way up to and back from the EXPO?
Quote from: ReadingBob on February 26, 2015, 12:51:04 PM
Hey....did I mention that we're stopping at every BBQ between Orlando and Scranton on our way up to and back from the EXPO?
No problem ;D ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on February 26, 2015, 12:51:04 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 25, 2015, 06:52:51 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on February 25, 2015, 06:49:36 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 08, 2015, 04:53:32 PM
What better way to have the first structure on the layout than to have one built by a Master Kit Builder, Mr. Robert Butts (Reading Bob) and a SBG in good standing!
Does all that back-slappin' mean that it's his turn to buy BBQ ???
Gman,
No, He will never have to buy the BBQ. It's my treat everytime. As a SBG member, I only let him come by twice a year. ;D ;D ;D So I don't mind the cost!
Tom ;D
Hey....did I mention that we're stopping at every BBQ between Orlando and Scranton on our way up to and back from the EXPO?
Will be a straight shot then from Richmond to Scranton. Damn yankees don't know jack about bar-b-cue.
Quote from: BandOGuy on February 26, 2015, 03:17:11 PM
Will be a straight shot then from Richmond to Scranton. Damn yankees don't know jack about bar-b-cue.
I'm afraid he's right. There used to be some good local BBQ places in Northern VA, but at least all the ones out by me (western Fairfax/eastern Loudon) have all closed.
That being said, obviously the champion BBQ team that Dave Frary is part of comes from Bahstun.
dave
Quote from: BandOGuy on February 26, 2015, 03:17:11 PM
Quote from: ReadingBob on February 26, 2015, 12:51:04 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 25, 2015, 06:52:51 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on February 25, 2015, 06:49:36 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 08, 2015, 04:53:32 PM
What better way to have the first structure on the layout than to have one built by a Master Kit Builder, Mr. Robert Butts (Reading Bob) and a SBG in good standing!
Does all that back-slappin' mean that it's his turn to buy BBQ ???
Gman,
No, He will never have to buy the BBQ. It's my treat everytime. As a SBG member, I only let him come by twice a year. ;D ;D ;D So I don't mind the cost!
Tom ;D
Hey....did I mention that we're stopping at every BBQ between Orlando and Scranton on our way up to and back from the EXPO?
Will be a straight shot then from Richmond to Scranton. Damn yankees don't know jack about bar-b-cue.
Okay,
Well, that should save me a few $$!
Tom ;D
Quote from: deemery on February 26, 2015, 03:37:02 PM
Quote from: BandOGuy on February 26, 2015, 03:17:11 PM
Will be a straight shot then from Richmond to Scranton. Damn yankees don't know jack about bar-b-cue.
I'm afraid he's right. There used to be some good local BBQ places in Northern VA, but at least all the ones out by me (western Fairfax/eastern Loudon) have all closed.
That being said, obviously the champion BBQ team that Dave Frary is part of comes from Bahstun.
dave
And, you can't find a good crab cake in the south! Not a Maryland one that is.
Tom ;D
I rested my back until mid afternoon and then finished the benchwork around the computer desk.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260215184648.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260215184648.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260215184712.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260215184712.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260215184727.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260215184727.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260215184742.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260215184742.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260215190022.jpeg)
Tomorrow I'll make a visit to the local lumbar joint and purchase several more 1x4's. I'll let them lay flat in the man cave for a few days. I like to give the lumber somr time to adjust to the climate in the room before I start cutting and screwing.
Tom ;D
Quote from: deemery on February 26, 2015, 03:37:02 PM
Quote from: BandOGuy on February 26, 2015, 03:17:11 PM
Will be a straight shot then from Richmond to Scranton. Damn yankees don't know jack about bar-b-cue.
I'm afraid he's right. There used to be some good local BBQ places in Northern VA, but at least all the ones out by me (western Fairfax/eastern Loudon) have all closed.
That being said, obviously the champion BBQ team that Dave Frary is part of comes from Bahstun.
dave
Not so, oh misplaced Yankee.
Dave Frary harkens from Bahnstable, MA, no where neah a suburb of Bahstun. Bahnstable is down Cape Cod. Cape Codders DO NOT think of themselves as Bahstonians. In fact, they'd blanch at the accusation and will probably rip the Cape Cod Tunnel Pass bumper stickah from your vehicle. Unless you've made prior arrangements, I doubt you could drive up to Dave's at random and enjoy a bah-b-cue meal.
There is NO good bah-b-cue in the Bahstan area.
So-o-o where are you? Some of us are waiting patiently to see your next layout pictures!!! On another matter, the box that I got from the post Office was too small to mail the bridge. I am searching for another one that will keep it safe during the journey from Arizona to Florida. Of course, you are probably getting ready for your drive North. I hope the snow melts and the temperature turns warmer or there will be two Florida looking for heat. Keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: Erieman on March 05, 2015, 06:00:09 PM
So-o-o where are you? Some of us are waiting patiently to see your next layout pictures!!! On another matter, the box that I got from the post Office was too small to mail the bridge. I am searching for another one that will keep it safe during the journey from Arizona to Florida. Of course, you are probably getting ready for your drive North. I hope the snow melts and the temperature turns warmer or there will be two Florida looking for heat. Keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for checking in and yes, I do have a few update pictures to load. I've been very busy.
Reading Bob and I are are taking the warmth of Florida with us! Now, go find that box!
Tom ;D
This is a test picture with the Judge's camera.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070315132556.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070315132556.jpeg)
I was showing the Judge how to upload photos with his camera so you saw one photo of the new construction. Here are the other photos. This is how far I've come in the last week. Very slow progress this time around.
In this next photo you can see the temporary location of my command station. I'm moving it in the next week to the other end of the layout. I'll explain all the logistics and why later.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070315152827.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070315152827.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070315152845.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070315152845.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070315152901.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070315152901.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070315152920.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070315152920.jpeg)
You're makin' great progress 8) 8) , but there's no rest for the weary - I saw a big stack of wood there
waitin' to be modeled into sawdust!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
That is looking very nice.
I wish I had that amount of space, imagine all the structures you can build.
Marty
Quote from: gnatshop on March 07, 2015, 07:42:17 PM
You're makin' great progress 8) 8) , but there's no rest for the weary - I saw a big stack of wood there
waitin' to be modeled into sawdust!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Good to see you today! Yes, I have lots to do and seven Saturdays to do it. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Quote from: MASSIVERALPH on March 08, 2015, 06:08:13 AM
That is looking very nice.
Ralphie,
Thank you much appreciated and where have you been my friend?
I hope you'll be at the EXPO!
Tom ;D
Quote from: martin.ojaste on March 08, 2015, 09:33:29 AM
I wish I had that amount of space, imagine all the structures you can build.
Marty
Marty,
Sometimes I wish I didn't have this much space as life in the layout room would be much simpliar. Then, I look at all the space and the number of kits to build and I'm thankful I have this much space. I'm very fortunate to have this much space and I want to make the most of it.
Thanks Marty for following along.
Tom ;D
No Expo for me Tom. Can't get off from work.
Quote from: MASSIVERALPH on March 08, 2015, 02:23:16 PM
No Expo for me Tom. Can't get off from work.
Ralph,
I remember now, TAX TIME! I'll catch you another time.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 08, 2015, 02:36:55 PM
Quote from: MASSIVERALPH on March 08, 2015, 02:23:16 PM
No Expo for me Tom. Can't get off from work.
Ralph,
I remember now, TAX TIME! I'll catch you another time.
Tom ;D
If Ralphie was nice, I'll bet that Jimmy would let him bring his calculator and use a
corner of his table!!
It's looking great Tom! Please do bring some warm weather with you to the EXPO.
Hi,
wow,Tom,you made a lot of progress on your layout.Fantastic first structure.
Regards,Chris
Quote from: S&S RR on March 09, 2015, 04:28:53 PM
It's looking great Tom! Please do bring some warm weather with you to the EXPO.
Thanks my friend, much appreciated and I'll bring all the warm weather I can fit in the luggage.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on March 11, 2015, 08:55:30 AM
Hi,
wow,Tom,you made a lot of progress on your layout.Fantastic first structure.
Chris,
Thanks for stopping by and yes, I've been quite the busy little beaver. I have more done and will post the update in a few minutes.
Tom ;D
Regards,Chris
Today the Judge and I got some of the second level decking finished. The next few photos show the area where the second level fits behind the computer desk.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315163856.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315163917.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315163939.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The next two photos are of the area directly opposite the computer.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315163959.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315163959.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164017.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164017.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Several days ago I got busy making a little more shelf storage. I was getting very tired of seeing all the cardboard boxes under the layout. I was able to move a few things around and emptied out six of the boxes.
I moved the small green cabinet out flush with the layout edge. I had the FSM kits stored here so the cabinet was pushed further under the layout. I moved the FSM kits and used that space for the Kadee, Yardmaster, Red Caboose and Intermountain freight cars.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164036.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164036.jpeg)
Moving the cabinet out gave me space on the back side to build a small shelf for more of the boxed kits. This shelf is only 12.75 inches deep but it is 31 inches high. I used the back of the cabinet as the back of the shelf. This emptied two more boxes.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164055.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164055.jpeg)
These floor shelves were easy to make. I used 2x2's on the bottom and screwed 3/8" plywood on the 2x2's.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164119.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164119.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I mentioned in an earlier post I planned to move the Command Station to another location. The new Command Station area is under the center portion of the second level.
I moved it here to have it centrally located. From here I can run the necessary wires down each side of the layout. This saves me from using twice the length of wires. By keeping the Command Station East end on the one side, I would have to run all the wires down that side and all the way up the the North end.
I used 1x4's and framed an area with a sliding shelf for the new area for the Command Station.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164142.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164142.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164255.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164255.jpeg)
The other half of the shelf gave me room for the FSM and FOS kits.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164200.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164200.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164235.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164235.jpeg)
The shelf under the Command Station was the perfect place for me to combine all the chargers. Having them in one place has already proven to be a time saver.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164217.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164217.jpeg)
Now you can see the room I have under the layout to have easy access to the PSX circuit breakers, PSX -AR (Auto Reversers) as I install them. I installed a 14" LED light over this area so I'll have lots of light while working in that location. I jsut realized I didn't take any pictures of this area but will do so later.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164342.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164342.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Now I wish I could say I didn't use the second level for any storage during all the shelving work but I'd be less than honest if I did.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164402.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140315164402.jpeg)
Now I need to unpack all this stuff and find a home for the rest of the stuff as well. 8) 8) ;D
Tom ;D
Tom,
Great progress! I know the thought behind the sliding shelf and lighting under the bench work will pay dividends down the road. It has to feel great to get the storage built to allow unpacking boxes and have the contents so well organized. I am continually amazed with how quickly you work and how much thought you incorporate into your construction.
Oh my.....all those boxes sure make a fella think about building a real big room to put all the completed projects.
Great work Tom.....having an assistant really makes a difference..... ;D
Good Morning Tom,
Your progress is looking great. I wish I had your organizational skills under the layout. It's like going on a hunting expedition under the layout. Based on your recent photos, I have to ask you this question, How many railroads are you building? Based on just your building count, you could probably line them up end to end all around the room twice. Whew, I'm tired just thinking how many buildings you have to build. now you know I'm just kidding.
Progress is coming along very nicely. Glad the judge is able to help you with this adventure. always good to have a friend in the hobby. On another subject, I will be looking for a box this week. there is a shipping company nearby. I have been very busy writing an article for the NMRA Magazine. Once that is shipped off this week, your box is next on the list.
Keep up the great work, my friend.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: jerryrbeach on March 14, 2015, 06:36:42 PM
Tom,
Great progress! I know the thought behind the sliding shelf and lighting under the bench work will pay dividends down the road. It has to feel great to get the storage built to allow unpacking boxes and have the contents so well organized. I am continually amazed with how quickly you work and how much thought you incorporate into your construction.
Jerry,
Thank you for the kind comments. I'll admit that some of the things I do now appearing to be some sort organizational skills is actually the result of many "screw ups" in the past. My old layout was 46" off the floor so this new lower level staging has been a real challenge for finding storage space. As always, thank you for stopping by.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 15, 2015, 08:39:07 AM
Oh my.....all those boxes sure make a fella think about building a real big room to put all the completed projects.
Great work Tom.....having an assistant really makes a difference..... ;D
Greg,
Thank you kindly my friend. The judge has been a great help with the layout. And just think, he drives about 25 miles one way for the pleasure. ;D ;D ;D ;D
I can see that big room now. Plenty of space to lay tracks from St. Louis all the way to Moose Butt! Life is wonderful.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on March 15, 2015, 12:59:36 PM
Good Morning Tom,
Your progress is looking great. I wish I had your organizational skills under the layout. It's like going on a hunting expedition under the layout. Based on your recent photos, I have to ask you this question, How many railroads are you building? Based on just your building count, you could probably line them up end to end all around the room twice. Whew, I'm tired just thinking how many buildings you have to build. now you know I'm just kidding.
Progress is coming along very nicely. Glad the judge is able to help you with this adventure. always good to have a friend in the hobby. On another subject, I will be looking for a box this week. there is a shipping company nearby. I have been very busy writing an article for the NMRA Magazine. Once that is shipped off this week, your box is next on the list.
Keep up the great work, my friend.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Afternoon my friend. Every box I open is like Christmas all over again. I thought I had all the freight cars located and then I found one box of 40 unbuilt Accurail and Tichy cars. And I still need to go through the other 80 frieght cars in the cabinet.
Good thing I have Mr. Reading Bob to help with the structures.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150315151031.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150315151031.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150315151051.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150315151051.jpeg)
Today I started the track laying process for the second level. I focused on the area behind the computer and used a few pieces of cork to get a nice 38 inch radius.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150315145210.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150315145210.jpeg)
After the 38" was established, I marked the line with a black marker.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150315145228.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150315145228.jpeg)
I used Elmer's Carpenter's Wood Glue to glue the cork to the plywood. When the glue has dried for a couple of days, I'll sand the top of the cork so the track will have a nice level roadbed. After the sanding, I'll add some strips of .10 to .20 styrene for a super elevation. Track will follow after that.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150315145246.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150315145246.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150315145302.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150315145302.jpeg)
Really love the way you are using all that space under the benchwork Tom. Gives me lots of ideas.
Tom
Love how it's coming along ! .... I only wish I had all that space ....maybe when I kick all the kids out I'll steal their rooms and knock out a wall or two.
Tom,
Great progress! You've really been busy since you've started those seven day weekends. ;) I'm looking forward to seeing this in person. I bet the Judge will be happy when he can start running trains around on the second level. :D
Quote from: Janbouli on March 15, 2015, 04:56:37 PM
Really love the way you are using all that space under the benchwork Tom. Gives me lots of ideas.
Jan,
Thank you, much appreciated. Due to the lack of free space I've been used to, I've really had to put my mind to it in getting the very most out of my available space. That being said, when I get more track finished the freight cars taking up available space at the moment will become revenue cars. Thus giving me more space.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Amagic41 on March 15, 2015, 08:34:57 PM
Tom
Love how it's coming along ! .... I only wish I had all that space ....maybe when I kick all the kids out I'll steal their rooms and knock out a wall or two.
Ken,
I appreciate you following along on this adventure. Having this much space available as a railroad modeler can also be a curse. You know, all that space needs to be filled with trains, trains and more trains.
My children left the nest early, meaning a year after high school. However, by then I had already built the 12x12' train shed in the rear.
Through crafty negotiations with the city, that shed built in 1976 was expanded to an addition of a 12x20' "L" shape on the south end. In 1993 I added another 12x14' to the north end and in 2009 I added the final addition of 12x16' to the north end as well. This gives me a 12x20' with a long 12x50' run. When I planned the shed I went with 12'; however, the cinder blocks reduced the inside to 11' 4''. I should have planned the shed giving me a full 15 wide interior. That 3' 8" sure changes things.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on March 16, 2015, 11:15:55 AM
Tom,
Great progress! You've really been busy since you've started those seven day weekends. ;) I'm looking forward to seeing this in person. I bet the Judge will be happy when he can start running trains around on the second level. :D
Bob,
Thanks Butty! Much appreciated and yes, those month long weekends sure do help. I wanted to have a SBG meeting prior to the Expo but time ran out. I have lots of ideas for the second level so running trains on that level may be sometime in the distant future.
Tom ;D
Tom
Looks like you are moving right along with the track work. I remembered to pack the ballast - I will have it at the EXPO. Looking forward to seeing you!
Quote from: S&S RR on March 22, 2015, 04:31:00 PM
Tom
Looks like you are moving right along with the track work. I remembered to pack the ballast - I will have it at the EXPO. Looking forward to seeing you!
John,
Thank you and thanks for getting the ballast for me. I got the money, well, I have the money packed.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 23, 2015, 05:20:53 PM
Quote from: S&S RR on March 22, 2015, 04:31:00 PM
Tom
Looks like you are moving right along with the track work. I remembered to pack the ballast - I will have it at the EXPO. Looking forward to seeing you!
John,
Thank you and thanks for getting the ballast for me. I got the money, well, I have the money packed.
Tom ;D
John, watch out! Jimmy D. and that Groovey feller are going to be lookin' out for 'ole money bags as soon as he
hits the door!!
Quote from: gnatshop on March 24, 2015, 12:16:02 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 23, 2015, 05:20:53 PM
Quote from: S&S RR on March 22, 2015, 04:31:00 PM
Tom
Looks like you are moving right along with the track work. I remembered to pack the ballast - I will have it at the EXPO. Looking forward to seeing you!
John,
Thank you and thanks for getting the ballast for me. I got the money, well, I have the money packed.
Tom ;D
John, watch out! Jimmy D. and that Groovey feller are going to be lookin' out for 'ole money bags as soon as he
hits the door!!
What? Do you think they really need my ten bucks! That is what I'll have left after paying John for the ballast. 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 24, 2015, 05:49:09 AM
Quote from: gnatshop on March 24, 2015, 12:16:02 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 23, 2015, 05:20:53 PM
Quote from: S&S RR on March 22, 2015, 04:31:00 PM
Tom
Looks like you are moving right along with the track work. I remembered to pack the ballast - I will have it at the EXPO. Looking forward to seeing you!
John,
Thank you and thanks for getting the ballast for me. I got the money, well, I have the money packed.
Tom ;D
John, watch out! Jimmy D. and that Groovey feller are going to be lookin' out for 'ole money bags as soon as he
hits the door!!
What? Do you think they really need my ten bucks! That is what I'll have left after paying John for the ballast. 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
David
No worries. They will end up with the Money weather it comes from Tom or me. I just picked up a special package for Tom while I was in AZ.
I decided I needed to add some lights under the second level for seeing the staging level. When I placed the second level plywood over the frame work, the staging level was very dark.
I got an 18" LED light from Home Depot for about $43.00 on sale. Regular price is around $53.00 per light.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030415151200.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030415151200.jpeg)
I mounted it as shown below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030415151218.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030415151235.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I wired a box to the backside of the 1x4 benchwork and extenede the wire to the end where I'll add another light and box for the south end of the staging area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030415151252.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030415151252.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030415151312.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030415151312.jpeg)
Here is how the staging area looks with the light on and the plywood deck on the second level in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030415151327.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030415151327.jpeg)
Quote from: S&S RR on March 24, 2015, 06:44:26 PM
David
No worries. They will end up with the Money weather it comes from Tom or me. I just picked up a special package for Tom while I was in AZ.
Boy, that L'il Tommy Boy is an easy mark!!
I think that I'll make up a special package of Arkansas dirt for him - I know that all they have down there is sand!
I might even be real nice and include a mole in it!!!
First rule of life - Retirement requires more light!!
The Ledbetters just voted to give you an official Ledbetter 'Jack-of-all-Trades' award -
carpender, electrisican, track-layin' grunt, janiter and train enkineer!!
A very prestigues and highly desired honor - not given lightly!
The first rule of retirement is to have FUN and it sure looks like Tom is obeying the rule. The lighting is great. Makes me want to go to Home Depot and buy a few. Later maybe. I've been busy installing trees and noticed you thread on trees. Very interesting. I think I have a solution for the bark. I'll Skype you Monday and share my idea. In the meantime, keep having fun at retirement!!!
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: gnatshop on April 03, 2015, 06:37:38 PM
Quote from: S&S RR on March 24, 2015, 06:44:26 PM
David
No worries. They will end up with the Money weather it comes from Tom or me. I just picked up a special package for Tom while I was in AZ.
Boy, that L'il Tommy Boy is an easy mark!!
I think that I'll make up a special package of Arkansas dirt for him - I know that all they have down there is sand!
I might even be real nice and include a mole in it!!!
Arkie dirt? HMMM, the possibilities!
Tom 8)
Quote from: gnatshop on April 03, 2015, 07:32:55 PM
First rule of life - Retirement requires more light!!
The Ledbetters just voted to give you an official Ledbetter 'Jack-of-all-Trades' award -
carpender, electrisican, track-layin' grunt, janiter and train enkineer!!
A very prestigues and highly desired honor - not given lightly!
Gman,
Please tell the Ledbetters I'm veryhonored to recieve the award of "Jack of all Trades".
The Award Winner ;D
Quote from: Erieman on April 04, 2015, 04:00:08 PM
The first rule of retirement is to have FUN and it sure looks like Tom is obeying the rule. The lighting is great. Makes me want to go to Home Depot and buy a few. Later maybe. I've been busy installing trees and noticed you thread on trees. Very interesting. I think I have a solution for the bark. I'll Skype you Monday and share my idea. In the meantime, keep having fun at retirement!!!
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Retirement is so much fun. I did like your idea of the bark and will report back on it later. I have to try it first! Always enjoy our Skyping.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 09, 2015, 03:13:43 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on April 03, 2015, 07:32:55 PM
First rule of life - Retirement requires more light!!
The Ledbetters just voted to give you an official Ledbetter 'Jack-of-all-Trades' award -
carpender, electrisican, track-layin' grunt, janiter and train enkineer!!
A very prestigues and highly desired honor - not given lightly!
Gman,
Please tell the Ledbetters I'm veryhonored to recieve the award of "Jack of all Trades".
The Award Winner ;D
Did they leave a 3-letter word off after the word "Jack"???
dave
Well, to quote a line from one of the villians in The Hobbit, "I've been busy of late my friends."
I moved over to the other/east side of the layout to start work on the river basin area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415145928.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415145928.jpeg)
Frank, Erieman, sent me his old bascule bridge and it came at the best possible time. I can now plan the location and approaches to the bridge.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415145950.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415145950.jpeg)
This is the large diorama base for the RSM Delwin's Boat and Net Storage kit.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150025.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150025.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Quote from: deemery on April 09, 2015, 03:15:56 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 09, 2015, 03:13:43 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on April 03, 2015, 07:32:55 PM
First rule of life - Retirement requires more light!!
The Ledbetters just voted to give you an official Ledbetter 'Jack-of-all-Trades' award -
carpender, electrisican, track-layin' grunt, janiter and train enkineer!!
A very prestigues and highly desired honor - not given lightly!
Gman,
Please tell the Ledbetters I'm veryhonored to recieve the award of "Jack of all Trades".
The Award Winner ;D
Did they leave a 3-letter word off after the word "Jack" ???
dave
No, But Gman probably did! You know how the Arkies are!
Tom 8)
I used a marker to draw the river bank lines.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150103.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150103.jpeg)
Birds eye view of the same area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150208.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150208.jpeg)
Here is how it looks in relation to the diorama.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150149.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150149.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Next up was the planning and redoing the bench work for the river basin area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150227.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150227.jpeg)
Fast forward a little here and you see I have the right side of the river area braced and screwed in place. I had to use the circular to remove the 1x4 I had bolted to the wall.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150250.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150250.jpeg)
I next made a frame and base for the diorama to sit in.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150310.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150310.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150334.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I made the diorama base area a "slide in place" frame so I can easily remove the diorama while I work on the kit.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150334.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150334.jpeg)
I made/cut some 1x4 supports for the river base. You can see I've also added my buse wires through the support framing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150414.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150414.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150448.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150448.jpeg)
Time for a cold Diet Pepsi, more later this evening.
Tom,
Looks great - lots for me to see.
I almost gave you a call today. I had some time before a 7pm dinner meeting at Linda's La Cantina, but I wasn't sure what time you clocked out at the Atlantic & Southern. I'll see it soon I hope!
John
Hi Tom,
that looks very fine....good idea with the "slide in place" frame for the diorama. Keep the great work going ;)
Cheers,Chris
Quote from: Cuse on April 09, 2015, 09:42:42 PM
Tom,
Looks great - lots for me to see.
I almost gave you a call today. I had some time before a 7pm dinner meeting at Linda's La Cantina, but I wasn't sure what time you clocked out at the Atlantic & Southern. I'll see it soon I hope!
John
John,
Thanks for stopping by. I plan to have a SBG meet in the next few weeks. Pama nd I love Linda's. Great place to eat and meet. We have many family birthday dinners there. Call anytime.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on April 10, 2015, 01:36:38 AM
Hi Tom,
that looks very fine....good idea with the "slide in place" frame for the diorama. Keep the great work going ;)
Cheers,Chris
Chris,
The "slide in place" will become permanent when the dio is finished. I appreciate you stopping by and checking the update.
Tom ;D
We're waitin' for pitures of you sweatin' with a piece of sod in your hand!!! ;D ;D ;D
And none of that stinkin' HO scale sod!!!
Oh, wait - you're still layin' in bed, ain't you? :( :( :( :(
What is Dr. Evil up to now? This has the look of real trouble ahead. Perhaps if there where some "Diet Pepsi" bottles laying around the work area I would feel better.
;D ;D ;D
What has happened to Dr. Evil? Did he forget to load enough fuel on his rocketship to return home from the moonbase again? Did he suffer another cave-in at the volcano base?
Or is it simpler than that, is he recovering from another Diet Pepsi bender?
;D ;D ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on April 12, 2015, 07:05:57 PM
We're waitin' for pitures of you sweatin' with a piece of sod in your hand!!! ;D ;D ;D
And none of that stinkin' HO scale sod!!!
Oh, wait - you're still layin' in bed, ain't you? :( :( :( :(
Gman,
Very sorry to dissappoint you but there will be no photos of me throwing sod. Trust me, it was a very dirty job, one in which my Babe made me throw all the clothes I was wearing out. She said that "stuff" isn't going in my washer. Thanks for stopping by anyway.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on April 13, 2015, 04:03:42 PM
What is Dr. Evil up to now? This has the look of real trouble ahead. Perhaps if there where some "Diet Pepsi" bottles laying around the work area I would feel better.
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
Actually, Dr. Evil is up to about 220. I need to loose 20 more, so far I've only lost 6 lbs. Diet Pepsi bottles are still here I just don't show them in the pictures but that can and will likely change.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on April 17, 2015, 01:35:56 AM
What has happened to Dr. Evil? Did he forget to load enough fuel on his rocketship to return home from the moonbase again? Did he suffer another cave-in at the volcano base?
Or is it simpler than that, is he recovering from another Diet Pepsi bender?
;D ;D ;D
I'm still here Cousin Brucie! I have plenty of DP and although I haven't posted on this thread any updates, I have plently to report. I'll do a little this evening.
Tom ;D
I am glad there are no pictures of you with no clothes on. I am not sure how Gman would handle that one.!!!
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on April 17, 2015, 05:50:31 PM
I am glad there are no pictures of you with no clothes on. I am not sure how Gman would handle that one.!!!
Hey Butty Bill,
You slipped in on me! Trust me, me naked is nothing for Gamn. He's related to the Ledbetters and they all take the Saturday wash down at the river, together. So what's one more over weight fatty!
Tom ;D ;D
I believe I left off with the shot of the frame for the diorama slide. It fits rather well if I do say so!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150354.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150354.jpeg)
I next cut out the river basin and leveled it with the bottom of the diorama.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150640.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150640.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150624.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150624.jpeg)
At this point the diorama isn't secured in place.
Continued in a few.
The river bed was removed so I could run the buss wires.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150527.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150527.jpeg)
I noticed the plywood river bed was slightly cupped so I added the necessary braces to the bottom. It must be level when the water is added.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150602.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150602.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The river bed was replaced and I can report that it is level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150659.jpeg)
Even the old terra firma land form is level. This is only possible due to my daily dose of Diet Pepsi.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150718.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The bascule bridge is placed in the correct location and marked. Notice how low it sits to the river bed? More on that later.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150749.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150749.jpeg)
I have a 38" radius leading into the bridge area/approach.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150828.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150828.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150847.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150847.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150904.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150904.jpeg)
Looking North from the diorama base to the bascule bridge.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150922.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150922.jpeg)
Time for one of my famous Diet Pepsi breaks. More in a few.
I mentioned earlier in the thread that the bridge sits fairly close to the river bed. In the photo below, the distance from the bottom of the span to the plywood is 8.5 scale feet.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150938.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150938.jpeg)
Bascule bridges usually do sit pretty close to the water.
I took the following two images from different ACL and SAL DVD's. You can see how close they both are to the water level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150954.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415150954.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415151016.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415151016.jpeg)
The DVD's are taken from 60+ year old videos.
After adding the water, my bridge should be about 7' feet, 1/4 scale inch above the water level.
Continued in a few.
Here is where we are for now. The track comes off the lift out and enters a 38" radius curve approaching the bascule bridge. It crosses the bridge on the Suwannee River and enters the area that runs behind the diorama. It will be close to the wall but the diorama structures will be in front of the track. Once the track passes the diorama it will curve back towards the center of the layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415151034.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415151034.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415151051.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415151051.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415151108.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090415151108.jpeg)
The Suwannee River is a major river of southern Georgia and northern Florida. It is a wild black water river and it's mouth is the Gulf of Mexico. However, the river has many crystal clear springs feeding it. The river length is about 240 miles.
Tom ;D
Looking good Tom.....y'all are making progress. 8)
I love the layout updates, but Im ready to read a Delwin's build thread. ;)
I hope Tom got the lighting package for the Delwin's kit as well. I'll be watching that build thread for sure. :)
Jeff
Quote from: GPdemayo on April 18, 2015, 08:55:46 AM
Looking good Tom.....y'all are making progress. 8)
Thanks Butty, much appreciated. Thanks for checking in on the build.
Tom ;D
Quote from: coors2u on April 18, 2015, 10:01:44 AM
I love the layout updates, but Im ready to read a Delwin's build thread. ;)
Dustin,
Very much appreciate you stopping by and checking in. I also like the layout updates as this means I'm getting something done and progress is being made.
Delwin's Boat and Net Storage build will start with the next month or two.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on April 18, 2015, 11:06:03 AM
I hope Tom got the lighting package for the Delwin's kit as well. I'll be watching that build thread for sure. :)
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, the lighting kit is on the way. I asked Slim at the Expo about it and he said he would get me one for less than I could get it. Delwin's is one of those structures that shouldn't be built with the LED lighting kit.
Tom ;D
Here is just a quickie update on the layout build. For the past few days I've been finishing up the benchwork on the East second level.
The Judge was over this morning and was standing next to the layout so he got "shot"!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180415173908.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180415173908.jpeg)
The next photo is looking North.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180415173929.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180415173929.jpeg)
In the next photo you can see where I'll add the small diesel repair shop.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180415173952.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180415173952.jpeg)
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 18, 2015, 05:04:06 PM
Yes, the lighting kit is on the way. I asked Slim at the Expo about it and he said he would get me one for less than I could get it. Delwin's is one of those structures that shouldn't be built with the LED lighting kit. Tom ;D
That Slim boy's quite a wheeler-dealer, ain't he!! Just the kind of nice friend we all need!!!
Quote from: gnatshop on April 18, 2015, 06:00:32 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 18, 2015, 05:04:06 PM
Yes, the lighting kit is on the way. I asked Slim at the Expo about it and he said he would get me one for less than I could get it. Delwin's is one of those structures that shouldn't be built with the LED lighting kit. Tom ;D
That Slim boy's quite a wheeler-dealer, ain't he!! Just the kind of nice friend we all need!!!
Slim is the best!
Tom ;D
I've had several conversations with Howard Zane and Frank Baker, Erieman, concerning straight track. They both say to avoid it if at all possible. On my old layout I had much more room for gentle curves than I do with this layout. This new three level layout is more like a three level shelf layout.
There are some areas where I can have gentle curves or curved sections to avoid the monotony of all straight track. I would define my current layout as a linear one in that the benchwork is along the walls and 24" deep. So, trying to avoid any straight track is almost impossible on this layout. Nuff said about that subject, I'm moving on with what I can do.
I was using old track and cork roadbed to lay out some type of track plan and to see how it may look. Some of it I liked and most of it I didn't.
On the second level I'll have a small yard. This yard will give me the opportunity to pick up and drop off cars from different locations on the second and the third levels.
I wanted a small diesel facility and here is where I tried it and didn't like it.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162136.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162136.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162209.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162209.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162328.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162328.jpeg)
Here is the South end and some track laid out. I didn't like this plan either.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162349.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162349.jpeg)
I do like this track arrangement.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162409.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162409.jpeg)
In the picture below I'm back North looking South - what a dang mess! Is this anyway to run a railroad? H--l no! That's the Judge taking it all in.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162427.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162427.jpeg)
I located the diesel facility on the other end and rather like this location. I left it here from this past Friday and as of today, Monday, I'm still content with it in this location. Who knows, by Friday it may change. ;D ;D ;D ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162446.jpeg)
Continued after dinner. I can hear the bell ringing. No wait, that bell is on ACL Pacific #1516.
I did decide the path of the mainline on the west side of the second level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162504.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162504.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162542.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162542.jpeg)
I glued the cork roadbed in place and let it dry overnight. The next day I made a sanding block and sanded the top of the cork. The sanding block is nothing more than a short piece of 1x4 with the sandpaper wrapped around the wood. I first used a course sandpaper to knock down any high spots.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162818.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162818.jpeg)
I used course Aluminum Oxide sandpaper I purchased from Ace Hardware.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162839.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162839.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I vacuumed the loose cork and resanded it with a 60 grit Aluminum Oxide sandpaper, again purchased from Ace Hardware. This gives me a very smooth and level cork roadbed for the track. The sanding process is a little time consuming but well worth the effort. The trains run much better on smooth track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162906.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162906.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162924.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162924.jpeg)
Tom
You are making great progress! Did you hand the judge a sanding block? I need to get down to see your layout one of these years - it will be during the winter ;D .
Quote from: S&S RR on April 21, 2015, 06:12:48 PM
Tom
You are making great progress! Did you hand the judge a sanding block? I need to get down to see your layout one of these years - it will be during the winter ;D .
John,
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, I'm finally making some decent progress. Thanks to retirement and Diet Pepsi.
Just so you know, I'm the only trained and authorized person to use the sanding block. 8) 8) 8) And yes, come on down!
Tom ;D
I mentioned I was moving track around to see how it would look. I want it to look decent but also have a purpose for being there.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162620.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162620.jpeg)
I have the mainline coming out from behind the computer, down the front and then enters part of the ovalix or enters the reverse loop. I have a shorter track, a house/station track on the inside. This is not a passing track!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162656.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162656.jpeg)
In the next photo you can see the track off to the right, this is the reverse loop track. The center track leads to the ovalix or the other side of the room depending on the turnout selection.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162638.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162638.jpeg)
Reading Bob was kind enough to build the FSM Brownsville Station for me. He built it in the A&S RR colors. It is a masterful build as well.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162600.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162600.jpeg)
Refering to the next photo, the track leading off to the left behind the station is the track that will be the small yard lead track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162620.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162620.jpeg)
At one point I did consider moving the station back and have the small yard in the front. However, I nixed this idea as it made the mainline run straight down the length of the wall and I certainly didn't want that.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162945.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162945.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The next photo shows a look from the opposite end of the small yard. This view is looking south towards the station.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415163018.jpeg)
And back south looking north.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415163117.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Again looking south with two of the yard tracks in place and tested.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415163034.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415163034.jpeg)
To get an equal spacing between the yard tracks, I used the aluminum Ribbonrail straight piece and pushed the ties of each track against the Ribbonrail section.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160514.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160514.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160456.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160456.jpeg)
It looks better with a standard width between the four tracks. The bottom track has yet to be aligned with the others.
Continued in a few.
Fast forward and you can see the four small yard tracks are now in place. I say small yard but it will hold 34, 40' freight cars at full capacity. The second track from the top is the main through yard track and is both the North and South bound track for dropping cars. The switcher will move the cars to the other three tracks depending on where the cars need to go.
Next photo is looking north.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160532.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160532.jpeg)
Now looking south.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160550.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160550.jpeg)
More after a station break.
Again fast forward and this area is 90% finished and cleaned up. The missing ties have been filled in and the feeder wires have all been installed and soldered to the buss line.
I'm happy to report that all runs fine and smooth.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160641.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160641.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160711.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160711.jpeg)
I'm waiting on two right hand turnouts. One for the station overnight set out track and the other for a spur to one of the industries off the main line.
Continued in a few.
One of the turnouts go here. This will lead to the FSM structure Hiram Brothers Wholesale Meats.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160656.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162522.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Just seeing how one of my structures fit in the area. This is a Model Tech structure, I forget the name but I moved the letters around to call it Sinner's Mill. I say this because it was a sin trying to build this structure per the instructions. Nuff said about that.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160621.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240415160621.jpeg)
You're making good progress, much faster than mine. :) I read today that the Diet Pepsi formula is going to change, they're taking the aspartame out. I'm already Pxxxxd off that they made the Diet Dew bottles smaller. When will the horror end?
Jeff
Isn't it amazing what ole' retired guys can get done. 8)
Wow...things are really moving along.
Nice work. Looking forward to visiting!
John
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on April 24, 2015, 05:55:54 PM
You're making good progress, much faster than mine. :) I read today that the Diet Pepsi formula is going to change, they're taking the aspartame out. I'm already Pxxxxd off that they made the Diet Dew bottles smaller. When will the horror end?
Jeff
Thank Heavens
Coke never changes their formula......ohh....wait.....never mind. :D
The second level is really coming along nicely Tom. I can't wait to see the progress you've made.
No resting at the home of ACL 1504. You are really moving on. Only one small question, where are all the curved tracks? Looking good my friend, keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
I know I'm going to get Skype call on this one!
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on April 24, 2015, 05:55:54 PM
You're making good progress, much faster than mine. :) I read today that the Diet Pepsi formula is going to change, they're taking the aspartame out. I'm already Pxxxxd off that they made the Diet Dew bottles smaller. When will the horror end?
Jeff
Thanks Doc, I just hope it doesn't change the taste. :'( We'll, er, I'll see.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on April 25, 2015, 08:42:51 PM
Isn't it amazing what ole' retired guys can get done. 8)
It is simply amazing, isn't it!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on April 25, 2015, 09:24:24 PM
Wow...things are really moving along.
Nice work. Looking forward to visiting!
John
John,
Thanks for stopping by, yes, no grass under my fet the past few weeks. I look forward to seeing you and the other SBG's.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on April 26, 2015, 11:08:59 AM
Thank Heavens Coke never changes their formula......ohh....wait.....never mind. :D
The second level is really coming along nicely Tom. I can't wait to see the progress you've made.
Bob,
Thanks for checking in. They always want to change the taste of stuff. We all know how it turned out for Coke.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on April 26, 2015, 12:25:26 PMNo resting at the home of ACL 1504. You are really moving on. Only one small question, where are all the curved tracks? Looking good my friend, keep up the great work.
Frank / EriemanI know I'm going to get Skype call on this one!
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by and posting. I knew I would get a comment from you and I'm guessing you were just looking at the photo. You must have forgot to read this from my earlier post.
" I've had several conversations with Howard Zane and Frank Baker, Erieman, concerning straight track. They both say to avoid it if at all possible. On my old layout I had much more room for gentle curves than I do with this layout. This new three level layout is more like a three level shelf layout. There are some areas where I can have gentle curves or curved sections to avoid the monotony of all straight track. I would define my current layout as a linear one in that the benchwork is along the walls and 24" deep. So, trying to avoid any straight track is almost impossible on this layout. Nuff said about that subject, I'm moving on with what I can do."
Anyway, progress is being made but the wiring is slowing me down at the moment.
Tom ;D
I'm not sure I want to be around when Dr. Evil learns that the Pepsi corporation is changing the formula for Diet Pepsi. Makes the hairs on my back stand up just thinking about his reaction!
;D ;D ;D 8)
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on April 26, 2015, 05:51:13 PM
I'm not sure I want to be around when Dr. Evil learns that the Pepsi corporation is changing the formula for Diet Pepsi. Makes the hairs on my back stand up just thinking about his reaction!
;D ;D ;D 8)
Cousin Brucie,
Good to see you my friend. Leave it to the big corporations to screw up a good drink! We all know what happened when Coke tried it.
Tom ;D
Perhaps to be safe, maybe you should give me the batteries to the Death Ray Dr. Evil!
;D ;D :o
Brucie, he'll never give up the batrees - he's tryin' to impruve it to reach to Arkansaw for them
folks that interrupt his threads! (Like we give a monkey's red a**!)
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on April 26, 2015, 05:51:13 PM
I'm not sure I want to be around when Dr. Evil learns that the Pepsi corporation is changing the formula for Diet Pepsi. Makes the hairs on my back stand up just thinking about his reaction!
;D ;D ;D 8)
Cousin Brucie,
I've heard the sad news but am taking a "wait and taste" attitude before I use the Death Ray! 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on April 30, 2015, 08:56:48 PM
Brucie, he'll never give up the batrees - he's tryin' to impruve it to reach to Arkansaw for them
folks that interrupt his threads! (Like we give a monkey's red a**!)
Gman my man,
You can use this thread any time you so desire. The forum belongs to all of usins as you'd say.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 03, 2015, 04:33:45 PM
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on April 26, 2015, 05:51:13 PM
I'm not sure I want to be around when Dr. Evil learns that the Pepsi corporation is changing the formula for Diet Pepsi. Makes the hairs on my back stand up just thinking about his reaction!
;D ;D ;D 8)
Cousin Brucie,
I've heard the sad news but am taking a "wait and taste" attitude before I use the Death Ray! 8)
Tom ;D
Maybe you should give me the batteries to the "Sawsall" as well just in case Dr. Evil.
;D ;D :o
Ah, corporate America, your friend. Yeah, right.
I have made quit a lot of progress on the layout and have pictures. However, I need to upload, drop and list them first. I'll try to get the update or part of the upate up tomorrow. That a hole bunch of ups.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 16, 2015, 06:53:43 PM
I have made quit a lot of progress on the layout and have pictures. However, I need to upload, drop and list them first. I'll try to get the update or part of the upate up tomorrow. That a hole bunch of ups. Tom ;D
UPS are just part of life - I hope I get up in the morning, I hope I can get up out of this chair, plus the BIG WISH - I just hope
I can get it up (the train on the table, of course!! Only railroad content here!).
Quote from: gnatshop on May 16, 2015, 08:26:23 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 16, 2015, 06:53:43 PM
I have made quit a lot of progress on the layout and have pictures. However, I need to upload, drop and list them first. I'll try to get the update or part of the upate up tomorrow. That a hole bunch of ups. Tom ;D
UPS are just part of life - I hope I get up in the morning, I hope I can get up out of this chair, plus the BIG WISH - I just hope
I can get it up (the train on the table, of course!! Only railroad content here!).
Welcome back from hibernation!
Did I miss some pictures? :(
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 17, 2015, 01:03:05 PM
Did I miss some pictures? :(
No, I haven't posted them yet.
Tom ;D
I finaly got back to finishing the bench work for the east side second level. I put the Judge to work on drilling a new hole for the tapcon screws. The one to the left of where he is drilling is stripped. The second one held.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170515162740.jpeg)
We got 30ft. of the wall 1x4's up and started on the inside or front 1x4's.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170515162759.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170515162822.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170515162839.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
This afternoon I finished the rest of the bench work bracing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170515162908.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170515162943.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170515163010.jpeg)
Over the next few days I'll add the cross bracing supports for the second level.
In this photo I just placed the plywood on the framing. The plywood support bracing isn't complete.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170515163054.jpeg)
Tom, looks like the Judge and you are making more progress on the new and enhanced Atlantic and Southern build !!!
I have been following along with your impressive tear down and re-build in the background. I have been not only enjoying your journey but also the camaraderie of your SBG as they all lend a hand in the revised pike ...
Also it was my pleasure to meet the Judge, Bob B, and you at the EXPO .... Hopefully one day I will be able to get down to FLA to see your efforts in person ... till then I will enjoy the A&S through the forum ...
All the best,
--Paul
Hi there,
Tom, you made great progress to your layout...Looking very good. Fine benchwork.
Cheers,Chris
Quote from: PaulS on May 17, 2015, 06:32:26 PM
Tom, looks like the Judge and you are making more progress on the new and enhanced Atlantic and Southern build !!!
I have been following along with your impressive tear down and re-build in the background. I have been not only enjoying your journey but also the camaraderie of your SBG as they all lend a hand in the revised pike ...
Also it was my pleasure to meet the Judge, Bob B, and you at the EXPO .... Hopefully one day I will be able to get down to FLA to see your efforts in person ... till then I will enjoy the A&S through the forum ...
All the best,
--Paul
Paul,
Thank you for ther very kind words. This has been a real adventure, the new layout that is. I've enjoyed every minute of it. I even enjoyed the removal of the old layout as I kept my eye on the new gold ring.
We do have fun here and you are welcome to come visit anytime. Just call to make sure I'll be here.
I enjoyed meeting you at the Expo as well. We had a great time there and still talking about it.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on May 21, 2015, 10:47:12 AM
Hi there,
Tom, you made great progress to your layout...Looking very good. Fine benchwork.
Cheers,Chris
Chris,
Thanks for stopping be and posting. I have been busy but still have lots to do.
Tom ;D
I guess I've been a bit lazy in posting any updates. I'll show some of the east side and then move back to some additions to the west side.
The east side second level bench work is finished and I now just need to add the plywood and then move on to the track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515115022.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515115043.jpeg)
I added the buss lines and ran an electrical line for the lower/staging level lights.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515115059.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515115116.jpeg)
I added a few tracks and crossovers to the west small yard area. I now have north and south inbound tracks to drop off and pick up cars. I also have added a few turnouts to give me more switching opportunities on this side.
I realized if a train is at the station, then the train coming off the ovalix has no where to go. This issue was fixed. I removed a portion of the track where it comes off the north end of the ovalix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120446.jpeg)
I then installed a #8 left hand curved turnout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120513.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Now a train exiting the ovalix northbound can continue north without having to wait on the mainline clearing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120530.jpeg)
The next photo shows the exit track from the ovalix to a northbound track. You can see the curved turnout in the right of the photo.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120553.jpeg)
You can see the new track left of the yard lead. This track can also be used to bypass the mainline or be used as the north inbound yard track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120610.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The area shown below will become a large oil/fuel stroage area with two tracks. These two tracks will come off the new northbound track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120627.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120646.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120707.jpeg)
Referring to the upbove photo the mainline is on the right. The station track is to the left of the outside mainline. The track with the two cabeese, lol, is the set out track for a pullman.
The track on the left is the new north inbound track and the one to the right is the south inbound track. You can see both of these tracks pass through the yard area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120730.jpeg)
I added a turnout here to have access to Sinner's Mill.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120815.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120912.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120941.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
You may have noticed that my track transitions from cork to the plywood. Here is how I do it.
Remember in an earlier post I mentioned I sand the top of the cork to get a good level for the track laying?
In the photo below you can see I'm using a heavy grit sand paper to sand the cork away.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515121003.jpeg)
The track below the one I'm working on has been sanded down to meet the plywood. I use a heavy grit to get it going and then a medium grit to keep the shape and then a fine grit to smooth it out.
I keep most of the sanded cork to use as piles of dirt and other crap around the layout. It is also good for hopper and gondola loads.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515121022.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515121044.jpeg)
The length of cork removed will determine your grade from the cork to the plywood. The Midwest cork I'm using is 3/16" thick. Sanding the cork in a length of three feet gives me a grade of less than 1%. Easy peasy.
Here is a photo from earlier in the post showing the two tracks transitioning from the cork to the plywood.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120646.jpeg)
Looking good, Tom. Also looks like you have a fair number of "yellow boxes" to help populate the layout.
Tom
You are making great progress - your visitors are going to have lots to see in 2017.
Quote from: UP Fan on May 24, 2015, 04:15:05 PM
Looking good, Tom. Also looks like you have a fair number of "yellow boxes" to help populate the layout.
Bob,
Thanks for stopping by. I have been busy and yes, I have plenty of yellow boxes to keep me busy. Although two of the yellow boxes are empty.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on May 25, 2015, 11:01:57 AM
Tom
You are making great progress - your visitors are going to have lots to see in 2017.
John,
Thanks very much. I hope they have something to see but as I said at the Expo, I'm still up in the air as far as having visitors during the 2017 NMRA here in Orlando. Time will tell.
Tom ;D
Wow Tom, I didn't realize you totally dismantled your layout and were doing a rebuild! Looks like you guys are doing a terrific job. The bascule bridge is great! I'll be watching your progress.
LHC
Tom....
Great warehouse "sorta" flat.
see ya
Bob
Quote from: bparrish on May 29, 2015, 01:34:18 PM
Tom....
Great warehouse "sorta" flat.
see ya
Bob
Not all warehouses can be buxom ....!! 8)
Wow ! ! ! !
Did I walk into that ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Quote from: LongHornCaddy on May 29, 2015, 12:34:20 PM
Wow Tom, I didn't realize you totally dismantled your layout and were doing a rebuild! Looks like you guys are doing a terrific job. The bascule bridge is great! I'll be watching your progress.
LHC
LHC,
Thank you for the kind comment and yes, this is a total redo, er, new build. I've done a whole lot since my last post of progress. I'll need to get caught up.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on May 29, 2015, 01:34:18 PM
Tom....
Great warehouse "sorta" flat.
see ya
Bob
Bob,
That sort of flat warehouse is from the old layout. I'm not sure if I'm going to use it again but for now it is in that location just to be out of my way. I have other plans for that corner.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on May 29, 2015, 03:49:53 PM
Wow ! ! ! !
Did I walk into that ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Kinda left ya flat didn't it Bob?
Tom ;D
Tom...
That may be from a previous layout but it is a great structure. Ya gotta find some place for it.
see ya
Bob
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 30, 2015, 05:52:16 PM
Quote from: bparrish on May 29, 2015, 03:49:53 PM
Wow ! ! ! !
Did I walk into that ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Kinda left ya flat didn't it Bob?
Tom ;D
It did leave him flat Tom. He just doesn't want to admit it!
;D ;D 8)
Quote from: bparrish on May 31, 2015, 01:41:47 PM
Tom...
That may be from a previous layout but it is a great structure. Ya gotta find some place for it.
see ya
Bob
Bob,
Are we talking about the yellow "Sinners Mill" flat pictured below?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120912.jpeg)
If so, then yes, it will be used right where it is.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on May 31, 2015, 02:19:27 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 30, 2015, 05:52:16 PM
Quote from: bparrish on May 29, 2015, 03:49:53 PM
Wow ! ! ! !
Did I walk into that ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Kinda left ya flat didn't it Bob?
Tom ;D
It did leave him flat Tom. He just doesn't want to admit it!
;D ;D 8)
Hey Cousin Brucie, how have you been? 8)
Tom ;D
I'm way behind on this thread. I think I left off with the cork shaving episode.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145540.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The decking on the level two east side is now in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145601.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145619.jpeg)
It's time to lay out the track plan for this side.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145637.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Erieman Frank and Howard Zane say no straight track. So, I'll try it on the east side.
I'll start off with a little curve where the track appears from behind Delwin's Boat and Net Storage.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145655.jpeg)
Okay, there's my curved track Frank and Howard. Just kidding.
I used two sections of 8ft. PVC piping and attempted to get some sort of very large curve on this side.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145713.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145731.jpeg)
I definitely don't like the looks of that one single bit.
Continued in a few.
Getting rid of the pipe helps and here is how the same curve looks with one side of cork roadbed on the line. Now, this doesn't look that bad.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145749.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145809.jpeg)
However, I need more space and this huge radius curve takes up entirely to much room. For one thing I need a medium length of passing siding on this side.
I left the cork in place and moved on to some track laying on the second "Y" reverse loop.
Continued in a few.
The second level has two "Y" reverse loops. One on each side of the ovalix. The two "Y" reverse loops are on one PSX-AR. This works fine as long as no two trains are in opposite directions on each "Y", meaning one train on one Y and the other train on the other Y. Anyway, the track is being laid on the south Y.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145836.jpeg)
I spent quit some time arranging and rearranging track in this location. I ended up going with a Walthers #8 left hand turnout on the bottom side of the south Y. If I didn't do this then to get to the middle section I would have to install an X crossover in the Y and thus creating a reverse loop in the reverse loop. Now you understand why the #8 curved turnout was used.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145853.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145949.jpeg)
Continuede in a few.
Here are a couple of extra shots of that area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145914.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515145934.jpeg)
Here is what I decided to do on the east side. I needed a passing siding and yet I needed to leave room for a rural North Florida farm scene. To separate the farm scene and the area where the passing siding is located, I"ll cut in a small river basin. More on that in a later post.
In the next few pictures I've placed the cork roadbed in place to see how it looks and to figure out the spacing for what I need.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150005.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150005.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150027.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150027.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150047.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150047.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150102.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150146.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150201.jpeg)
Being content with the track plan the cork was glued in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150348.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150221.jpeg)
In the next few days I'll go over the river basin being cut in and how I did that little task.
Tom ;D
That's going to be a beautiful vista to train watch. I'm proud of you for resisting the urge to put another yard in ;)
John
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on May 31, 2015, 02:19:27 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 30, 2015, 05:52:16 PM
Quote from: bparrish on May 29, 2015, 03:49:53 PM
Wow ! ! ! !
Did I walk into that ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Kinda left ya flat didn't it Bob?
Tom ;D
It did leave him flat Tom. He just doesn't want to admit it!
;D ;D 8)
Is Flat Tom related to Flat Stanley?
Chip,
Nothing is flatter than Flat Stanley except his sister Shirley Stanley.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 31, 2015, 05:10:09 PM
Chip,
Nothing is flatter than Flat Stanley except his sister Shirley Stanley.
Tom ;D
Shirley you jest. ;)
Quote from: BandOGuy on May 31, 2015, 06:19:34 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 31, 2015, 05:10:09 PM
Chip,
Nothing is flatter than Flat Stanley except his sister Shirley Stanley.
Tom ;D
Shirley you jest. ;)
You know the saying, "Don't call me Shirley". ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Enough "TOM" foolery!!! ;)
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 31, 2015, 07:21:37 PM
Quote from: BandOGuy on May 31, 2015, 06:19:34 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 31, 2015, 05:10:09 PM
Chip,
Nothing is flatter than Flat Stanley except his sister Shirley Stanley.
Tom ;D
Shirley you jest. ;)
You know the saying, "Don't call me Shirley". ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Damn, I knew this was the wrong week to stop sniffing glue.....
;D ;D ;D
Quote from: Donato on May 31, 2015, 07:42:36 PM
Enough "TOM" foolery!!! ;)
Somehow I don't think there is an "OFF" switch when it comes to Tom. Unless of course you deprive him of Diet Pepsi. Now, that might get his attention!
;D ;D ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 31, 2015, 03:12:11 PM
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on May 31, 2015, 02:19:27 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 30, 2015, 05:52:16 PM
Quote from: bparrish on May 29, 2015, 03:49:53 PM
Wow ! ! ! !
Did I walk into that ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Kinda left ya flat didn't it Bob?
Tom ;D
It did leave him flat Tom. He just doesn't want to admit it!
;D ;D 8)
Hey Cousin Brucie, how have you been? 8)
Tom ;D
Hanging in there these days Tom. Not doing much RR stuff as I just haven't had the creative juices for railroad stuff these days. However I did pick up some neat freight cars at a sale yesterday so It's not like the hobby is totally gone or anything like that. And with The NMRA National in Portland OR this year there's still some fun stuff on my "Train Calendar" for this summer. I'm looking forward to seeing Charlie Comstock's layout in Portland since I've never seem his layout in person before. And with a little luck, I will finally get to meet Art Fahie and JimmyD at the national train show! Just wish that Doug was going to be there.....
;D ;D ;D
BTW, I found these photos the other day and thought you might enjoy seeing these.
So Bruce.........
Does that mean that the loco runs on alternate fuels ? ? ? ?
see ya
Bob
Tom's probably pulling his hair out right now trying to figure out how to justify that modern loco on his 50's railroad. ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 01, 2015, 09:28:03 AM
BTW, I found these photos the other day and thought you might enjoy seeing these.
Cousin Brucie,
I happy to hear you are doing well, even if you are taking a break from all the funNow that Diet Pepsi loco is my kind of train. I'd have matching boxcars to boot.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on June 01, 2015, 02:16:08 PM
Tom's probably pulling his hair out right now trying to figure out how to justify that modern loco on his 50's railroad. ;D ;D ;D
Gregory,
Now you know that's not true. I don't have any hair left to pull out. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
I wanted to have an area where a river is used to separate two scenes. This river will be used for this purpose. The two areas will be old Florida pines, oaks and underbrush - cross the river - then the track will pass through a farm area. I drew the river and river bank on the plywood where the river will be cut in.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150329.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310515150408.jpeg)
I didn't want the girder bridge to span the plywood. If I did this then the river bank would be at a 90 degree angle with the river bed. I wanted it to cross over the river bank as well. This gives me several options on how to span this area. I haven't decided on this as yet. The girder will be in the middle either way.
Continued in a few.
I removed that entire 8 ft. section of plywood and took it outside to make the cuts. I placed the two pieces of plywood back on the bracing and marked where the river would go. Unfortunately, it fell across a support brace.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161156.jpeg)
You can see in the photo above my buss wires and light cord also pass through this brace. Here again is the principle of the 5 P's. Anyway, not to be slowed down on this public works project, I moved on.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161213.jpeg)
After making the mark I cut the brace.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161238.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
This piece of 2x2 is screwed to the 1x4 from the rear. I used a hammer to knock if off.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161257.jpeg)
I then used the Dremel with a cutting disk and removed the two screws. And here is a little early July 4th show for ya'll.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161322.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I decided to lower the river 2 inches from the top. I screwed a small block of wood to the back wall 1x4 and made sure it was level. This block will support the river bed section of plywood.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161346.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161346.jpeg)
I measured a section on the front and the wall 1x4 and made the cut.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161407.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161407.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161431.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161431.jpeg)
I made a similar cut on the rear wall 1x4.
Continued in a few.
I reattached the wall brace and fit the river base in place. I found it two flimsy so I added a short piece of 2x2 to the bottom side.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161456.jpeg)
I replaced the river base.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161511.jpeg)
And it is level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161531.jpeg)
Continued later this evening.
Here we see the plastic bridge over the plywood river.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161551.jpeg)
Time to add the river bank. I took some contractor's paper and the trusty hot glue gun.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161607.jpeg)
I cut the paper in small pieces.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161623.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I glued the paper to the sides using my river bank line as the source for the bottom edge of the river bank.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161653.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161710.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161742.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
In the next few photos you can see the progress.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161726.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161820.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615161802.jpeg)
And now the bridge over plywood.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010615175502.jpeg)
I made the river bank shallow so I can make any contours to the bank when the scenery material is added at a later time.
You are moving right along - looks great Tom.
Tom,
You must have done this before .... !!! 8)
Tom......
That's more practice than I give time for.......... I would already be smearing plaster ! ! ! !
Looks great.
Thanx
Bob
Looking good there Mr. Tom. I bet it's nice starting to add some preliminary scenery for a change of pace.
The river looks really good, especially the use of narrowing to increase perspective and depth.
Can't wait to see it with water.
Marty
Looks great.....this is a new record for you.....benchwork in less than a week (+/-) and you're tearing it out! ;D ;D ;D
Looks great! Not this weekend, but perhaps the following weekend, I hope to have a bucket of processed dirt ready for you. I baked it and now I'm going through the somewhat slow process of sifting it. It looks like you're getting close to the point where you may need it. :D
Quote from: bparrish on June 01, 2015, 01:21:13 PM
So Bruce.........
Does that mean that the loco runs on alternate fuels ? ? ? ?
see ya
Bob
The amazing part Bob is that it gets 50mpg! And yes, it does run on Diet Pepsi. They probably had to mothball it after Dr. Evil learned how many gallons of the "Juice" the loco needed....
;D ;D ;D
Nice Work Tom! I really like that riverbed and how your using the paper to make a smooth riverbank. Looks like a great place for a family picnic and some fishermen. Maybe even a sportsman access road.
Or maybe since you live in Florida it's a spot for gators! (Hopefully the Blue and Orange type)
;D ;D ;D
Yo Uncle Tommie,
If your where to model that "Diet Pepsi" locomotive that you would also have to make the appropriate fueling location and engine repair facilities for the loco on the layout. Just think of the possibilities!
;D ;D :o
Bruce......
I dunno............. What would be the fizz pressure changes as the loco goes up in altitude? ? ?
Staggers the imagination.
see ya
Bob
Quote from: S&S RR on June 01, 2015, 06:16:02 PM
You are moving right along - looks great Tom.
John,
Thanks, I appreciate you stopping by.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on June 01, 2015, 11:17:51 PM
Tom,
You must have done this before .... !!! 8)
Yes, I have. I was at Howard Zanes one Christmas weekend and he was using the paper to cover his mountain areas. I learned this from Howard 6 months prior to him showing it on the Allan Kellers tape.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on June 02, 2015, 02:17:43 AM
Tom......
That's more practice than I give time for.......... I would already be smearing plaster ! ! ! !
Looks great.
Thanx
Bob
Bob,
I know what you mean. However, I have to build the bridge abutments and do a couple of other things to the river and banks first. I appreciate you following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on June 02, 2015, 06:35:32 AM
Looking good there Mr. Tom. I bet it's nice starting to add some preliminary scenery for a change of pace.
Bill,
Thanks for the kind words and yes, it is nice to get something going besides the track on plywood.
Tom ;D
Quote from: martin.ojaste on June 02, 2015, 07:16:31 AM
The river looks really good, especially the use of narrowing to increase perspective and depth.
Can't wait to see it with water.
Marty
Marty,
Thank you, very much appreciated. I'm going to have fun with this area as it has so many possibilities.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on June 02, 2015, 09:12:49 AM
Looks great.....this is a new record for you.....benchwork in less than a week (+/-) and you're tearing it out! ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Hey, that's a good one. Less than a week, how about two days before I took out the saw. 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on June 02, 2015, 10:05:01 AM
Looks great! Not this weekend, but perhaps the following weekend, I hope to have a bucket of processed dirt ready for you. I baked it and now I'm going through the somewhat slow process of sifting it. It looks like you're getting close to the point where you may need it. :D
Bob,
Appreciate you stopping by and for the kind comment. Today I built the bridge abutments and will post that on the thread, if not tonight, then tomorrow afternoon.
Dirt is always good but no hurry. Come by with or without the dirt.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 02, 2015, 10:14:50 AM
Nice Work Tom! I really like that riverbed and how your using the paper to make a smooth riverbank. Looks like a great place for a family picnic and some fishermen. Maybe even a sportsman access road.
Or maybe since you live in Florida it's a spot for gators! (Hopefully the Blue and Orange type)
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
Your kind words are encouraging. This area has lots of possibilities and yes, I do have HO scale aligators. They aren't orange and blue. They are the eat your dog type of gator.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 02, 2015, 10:17:38 AM
Yo Uncle Tommie,
If your where to model that "Diet Pepsi" locomotive that you would also have to make the appropriate fueling location and engine repair facilities for the loco on the layout. Just think of the possibilities!
;D ;D :o
Cousin Brucie,
No time will be spent on the Diet Pepsi loco. I don't have the time but I'm sucking one DP down as I type. :P
Tom ;D
I started to lay the ground work for the bridge abutments. First I needed to establish a center line so the abutments, bridge and track all line up. I started with the river bed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162051.jpeg)
I used a piece of cork to line up the center line on the bank to the track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162111.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162135.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Now I have a center line from each side that lines up from one track to the other.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615183345.jpeg)
In this next photo you can see I'm pretty well lined up.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162213.jpeg)
I then drew in a pair of outside lines. These lines represent the cork roadbed. My abutment needs to be wide enough to lay the roadbed on the deck of the abutments.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162234.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I then placed a weight on each side to hold the track in place while I took some measurements.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162253.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162253.jpeg)
Prior to taking the measurements, I made very sure the track and bridge were level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162311.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162311.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162330.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162330.jpeg)
More in a few.
I decided to make the abutments out of sheet styrene. I haven't worked with styrene in about seven years or so and I wanted to get my hand back into the feel of working with it.
I used some old Evergreen Scale Models sheet styrene #9060, plain in 060" or 1.5 mm thick.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162410.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162410.jpeg)
I used #106 .010 x .125 styrene strips for the trim. I forgot to photo the #196 pieces used for bracing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162425.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162425.jpeg)
A little fast forward here and you can see I've started to build the concrete, er, styrene abutments.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162442.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162442.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I basically built a box. The track will lay on the cork and the cork will lay on the top deck of each abutment.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162459.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162514.jpeg)
Fast forward once more and you can see the abutments are finished.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162558.jpeg)
I did forget to mention the paper banks were cut away so the abutments would fit as if built into the banks.
More in a few.
It's hard to show you the detail on the abutments until they are painted. They will be spray painted with Floquil Aged Concrete and weathered. You can see some of the detail in the photo below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162612.jpeg)
It's level and fits.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162633.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162652.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020615162735.jpeg)
Some of you may remember my high trestle and girder bridges from the old layout. In the photo below you can see the three span double track girders in the right of the photo.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200314174611.jpeg)
I cut one of the girders free and this is the one I used for the current project.
Cost of materials for the bridge - $6.00
Planning the bridge span - two hours
Actual time spent building the span - five hours
Cost for the entire project - Priceless
Hi there,
Tom,very nice work on that river.....I´ve never seen working with paper for the river banks but it looks like a good idea for that.
Will be a fine scene when finished.....
Cheers,Chris
Great progress...
thanx
Bob
I did a 'how I do it' on making styrene look like concrete over on RR-Line: http://www.railroad-line.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=45053 (http://www.railroad-line.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=45053) (The images are temporarily off-line, they should be back up later today.)
dave
Quote from: Twist67 on June 03, 2015, 10:31:02 AM
Hi there,
Tom,very nice work on that river.....I´ve never seen working with paper for the river banks but it looks like a good idea for that.
Will be a fine scene when finished.....
Cheers,Chris
Chris,
Thanks for the very kind words and stopping by to check in. I got the paqper from Lowe's but Home Depot carries it as well. They call it contractor's paper.
I have more to show about the paper and the banks but haven't uploaded the photos as yet. I'll get to it eventually and probably later this evening.
Tom ;D
Tom
Quote from: bparrish on June 03, 2015, 12:01:55 PM
Great progress...
thanx
Bob
Bob,
Thank you and I appreciate you checking in on the progress.
Tom ;D
Quote from: deemery on June 03, 2015, 12:28:05 PM
I did a 'how I do it' on making styrene look like concrete over on RR-Line: http://www.railroad-line.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=45053 (http://www.railroad-line.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=45053) (The images are temporarily off-line, they should be back up later today.)
dave
Dave,
I remember reading you post on RRLine last month. Thanks for the info and as of this post the pictures are still not available. Oh wait, it's already June so make that two months ago. Where does the time go?
Tom ;D
I painted the river bank with Elmer's white glue this afternoon. When the glue is applied the paper gets very limp/saggy due to the water content in the glue. However, when dried. it's very hard and stiff. Most importantly is that the glue seals the paper.
I like the glue on paper for adding scenery material later. When the dirt or any scenery material is applied and a wetting agent is used, the glue softens, blends with the scenery and wetting agent and hardens again.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030615170359.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030615170429.jpeg)
When the glue dries, I get a picture and post it tomorrow.
The glue on the paper banks has dried and now I'll cover the river bottom with a dark earth color. I used Woodland Scenics Earth Undercoat. It's just a dark brown color. This river will be a muddy one so I chose the dark brown.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050615162010.jpeg)
It took two coats to cover the plywood base.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050615162026.jpeg)
I pulled out the good ole air brush and sprayed the concrete abutments with Floquil Aged Concrete. I'll let them dry and cure a few days and then the weathering will be applied.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050615162045.jpeg)
I'll back up here a little and say I built the other concrete abutment. You can see it in the photo above and below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050615162045.jpeg)
Also, I discovered the bascule bridge sits a little low so I cut four pieces of .060 styrene and glued them to the base of the four bridge posts.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050615162100.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050615162118.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050615162138.jpeg)
I repainted the four round supports under the bascule bridge Floquil Aged Concrete; however, not shown in the photos.
Tom, my webserver's back on-line so the photos on the concrete thread on RR-L are back. That was painful...
dave
Most impressive progress Dr. Evil! I can't wait to see what "Gator Creek" will look like once you add the scenery and water to it.
Note: No bottles of "Diet Pepsi" where harmed during the typing of this message....
;D ;D ;D
Quote from: deemery on June 06, 2015, 12:06:53 PM
Tom, my webserver's back on-line so the photos on the concrete thread on RR-L are back. That was painful...
dave
Dave,
I saw the pictures. Great tip you gave us on the concrete and stucco. I've marked your post on RRF for future reference. Thanks very much.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 07, 2015, 07:53:10 AM
Most impressive progress Dr. Evil! I can't wait to see what "Gator Creek" will look like once you add the scenery and water to it.
Note: No bottles of "Diet Pepsi" where harmed during the typing of this message....
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
Thanks for the kind words. Gator Creek is actually the Tahope River. And, it will have gators in the water.
It's also good to never hurt a DP bottle especially with it full!
Tom ;D
Good Morning Tom,
Progress looks great. Like the bridge! Can you take an overall picture of each side of the second level. Like to see the overall progress as well as the details. Keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: Erieman on June 07, 2015, 09:59:46 AM
Good Morning Tom,
Progress looks great. Like the bridge! Can you take an overall picture of each side of the second level. Like to see the overall progress as well as the details. Keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
Morning Frank,
Yes, I've been busy on the second level. Thanks for the kind words on the bridge. I'm now working on the bascule bridge crossing. I just made the cuts for the lift out on the second level. I'm going to try something different as far as the wiring on the lift out. I'll cover this one the thread.
I'll get a few extra photos up later this evening for viewing of the overall areas.
Tom ;D
I'm in the process of letting a few things dry so I thought I'd give ya'll a birds eye view of the second level track plan.
We are crossing the bascule bridge Eireman gave me, thank you, and entering the area of Delwin's Boat and Net Storage.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615134715.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615134737.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
We leave Delwin's behind and enter the area where I'll have rural Florida scenery. Pines, oaks, underbrush and palms. The passing siding is necessary for obvious reasons here. Along the passing siding I'll have a small station on the right and a water tank on the left. To the left set back in the woods a little, I'll have a small Florida Cracker house. Early Floridians were referred to as crackers.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615134757.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615155119.jpeg)
Then we come to the Tahope River.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615134820.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Looking back north over the Tahope River.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615134846.jpeg)
After the river, we'll enter a farm area with crops and other stuff. I'll use the blue foam to elevate the land so the railroad can pass through a very shallow cut in the land prior to turning right.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615134903.jpeg)
Now looking back north again from the farm area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615134920.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Now were enter Baker's Curve area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615134946.jpeg)
Baker's Curve takes us westbound to the interchange with the cut off to the town of Tahope. The curved turnout will eventually have track leading to the industrial area of Tahope. But for now, I'm using this area as a work bench. The trains coming from Baker's Curve can go straight into the ovalix to go up or down. The next photo is looking West.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615135001.jpeg)
Looking from the ovalix eastbound to Baker's Curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615135017.jpeg)
The train can go right, northbound to the east side, passing the future small diesel facility and into the bottom part of the north "Y".
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615135034.jpeg)
I'll finish this tomorrow.
Like the build and look forward to each instalment ..... but I also LOVE your "stash" .... (I'm trying to emulate you). :P
QuoteBut for now, I'm using this area as a work bench
Tom, my whole layout is a workbench! ;D Looks great. I really like the "boxes" you made for the bridge abutments, I may have to try that. I have a question, the siding in the next to the last pic that comes out of the ovalix looks to be only eight feet or so long. Will that be long enough for your usual consists, especially those long passenger trains?
Jeff
Good Evening Tom,
Layout progress is looking great. Thank you for including in part of your layout "Bakers Curve" Hmmm, what does that mean? Only kidding, it is looking great. I really like the overview photos. Keep up the great work. The wife and I have been helping our youngest daughter and family settle into their new home. they have downsized. So-o-o, we have been moving the smaller stuff, painting my Granddaughter Morgan's bedroom, etc... I have been dragging my butt the last two days. I need to get back to my railroad and have a good time, if you know what I mean. I need a nap! zzzzzz
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: Donato on June 07, 2015, 05:42:56 PM
Like the build and look forward to each instalment ..... but I also LOVE your "stash" .... (I'm trying to emulate you). :P
Donato,
Thank you for the kind comment. I have lots of things to add. I'm a little behind on the thread and posting pictures. The "stash" has been many years of getting this and getting that! My stash on the other side is triple the stash you see, kits and more kits but no more yellow boxes on the other side. 8)
Tom ;D
Looking very nice Tom!!
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on June 07, 2015, 08:09:30 PM
QuoteBut for now, I'm using this area as a work bench
Tom, my whole layout is a workbench! ;D Looks great. I really like the "boxes" you made for the bridge abutments, I may have to try that. I have a question, the siding in the next to the last pic that comes out of the ovalix looks to be only eight feet or so long. Will that be long enough for your usual consists, especially those long passenger trains?
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
Thanks for the kind words and my whole layout is a workbench as well but I try to keep most of the tools on the center for now.
The bridge abutments were easy to build. Give it a try. I like to build stuff like this as it gives me something that isn't mass produced and the rest of the world doesn't have.
The area you're talking about is pictured below for the convenience of viewing as you read my reasoning on that siding.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615135001.jpeg)
The length of track on the left between the two turnouts is 6 ft. The length of track on the right between the two turnouts is 4 ft.
The track on the right is actually a set out track for freight cars that will be switched in the town of Tahope. The town is down the center section.
The set out track will hold 5 - 7 cars. The reason for the double ended set out is so the loco can drop off the required cars on the track on the right and move on.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080615144649.jpeg)
While the set out cars are waiting to be switched, any train can pass the area on the left without being held. A local switcher will pick up the cars and move them back past the curved turnout. It will then be able to move them to the town of Tahope.
Tom ;D
Quote from: LongHornCaddy on June 08, 2015, 02:36:39 PM
Looking very nice Tom!!
Leo,
Thanks for the kind remarks, much appreciated. I'm getting more done each day.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on June 07, 2015, 09:31:53 PM
Good Evening Tom,
Layout progress is looking great. Thank you for including in part of your layout "Bakers Curve" Hmmm, what does that mean? Only kidding, it is looking great. I really like the overview photos. Keep up the great work. The wife and I have been helping our youngest daughter and family settle into their new home. they have downsized. So-o-o, we have been moving the smaller stuff, painting my Granddaughter Morgan's bedroom, etc... I have been dragging my butt the last two days. I need to get back to my railroad and have a good time, if you know what I mean. I need a nap! zzzzzz
Frank / Erieman
Good afternoon Frank,
I appreciate your kind words. As LHC says, when people say good things about your work, it keeps you motivated.
"Baker's Curve" is named for you and it just seemed natural to do. You encouraged me to have a broad sweeping curve down the middle and it does look much better than down the edge. Baker's Curve starts at the Tahope River and continues around the bend, er, curve.
After helping the family I bet you are tired. I got tired reading your story. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
I'll be posting more on the overall view later this afternoon.
Tom ;D
We are now looking north along the east side of the room.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615135058.jpeg)
The track with the curved turnout comes from behind the ovalix and also serves as the long end of the reverse "Y". Stay right and the train will enter the mainline and pass the station. Stay left and you can bypass the station and enter the yard to drop off any cars needing switched.
The hole is where the station goes.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615135117.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Continuing north past the station area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615135133.jpeg)
The yard track enters the mainline and the main continues around to the lift out, not pictured as yet. It is still under construction.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615135150.jpeg)
Looking back south from the mainline.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615135205.jpeg)
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 05, 2015, 04:33:45 PM
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050615162118.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050615162138.jpeg)
I repainted the four round supports under the bascule bridge Floquil Aged Concrete; however, not shown in the photos.
This is really well done. Looks like you put a lot of thought into it
Leo,
This area is the first thing in view when entering the room. Yes, many ideas came and went until I came up with this plan.
Thanks for checking in.
Tom ;D
Looking Good Uncle Tommy! I sure wish you could come out here and help me give my old layout a kick-start!
;D ;D ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 09, 2015, 04:51:40 PM
Looking Good Uncle Tommy! I sure wish you could come out here and help me give my old layout a kick-start!
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
Thank you very much. If I had the time I would come visit and help.
Tom ;D
I've really been busy on the layout this past week. Here is a little of what I got accomplished.
I got the river bank glued in place in the Delwin's Boat and Net storage area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173903.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173903.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173921.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173921.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I weathered the three concrete abutments. One is on the left end of the bascule bridge and the other two are on the Tahope River. The bascule bridge abutment can be seen in the photo above.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173534.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173534.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173557.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173557.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173617.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173617.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173636.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173636.jpeg)
The photo above indicates the spot where the bascule bridge will sit. For now it is level and I obviously want to keep it that way.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173718.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173718.jpeg)
I wanted the right end of the bridge to sit on two concrete pillars. The main portion of the bridge sits on four concrete pillars. Frank Baker gave me the bridge but he was unable to locate the missing part. So I did what all modelers do when necessary, I scratch built them. Well, maybe not scratch built but I made two more.
I purchased a dowel the same size as the four plastic pillars. I got the dowel from ACE Harware for $2.98. It came in a four foot piece and I used all of 3 inches of it.
As I was cutting it, it kept rolling on me so I clamped it down so I could make the cuts.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173658.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173658.jpeg)
After cutting the two pieces I needed, they were painted with Floquil Aged Concrete and set aside to dry.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173738.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100615173738.jpeg)
You can see in the photo above that my sights are set on a cold Diet Pepsi. So, that's what time it is - a Diet Pepsi break. Tomorrow I'll go over how I made the small trestle to complete the bascule bridge.
Man O Manischewitz, you are really moving right along on your A & S build. There are so many different elements in your build, yards, rivers waterfront scenes, bridges, etc. Very well planned layout. Now if you'll just come to Colorado and help me with my rebuild. ;-)
Quote from: UP Fan on June 10, 2015, 06:13:26 PM
Man O Manischewitz, you are really moving right along on your A & S build. There are so many different elements in your build, yards, rivers waterfront scenes, bridges, etc. Very well planned layout. Now if you'll just come to Colorado and help me with my rebuild. ;-)
Bob,
Thanks very much for the kind comments. Yes, for once I've planned what I need and want in a layout verses just throwing down some track and see where it ends up.
I'd be more than happy to visit Colorado and help with the redo. I just don't have the time. 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
It's looking good Tom! It looks like you're getting really close to adding some serious scenery. :D If you and the Judge are going to be around Saturday I'd like to swing on by and check it out.
Bob,
Thank you Butty and yes, we will be here. We go to SM at 11:15AM. Just so you know.
Tom ;D
I've been so busy I forgot to show you how I prepared the track for the short trestle pieces. The trestle is already built so here is a little photo essay on what I did.
I used three sections of Central Valley bridge ties and painted them Floquil Railroad Tie Brown.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615160656.jpeg)
I then measured the length of track over the trestle area. I measured it on the track and removed the ties.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615160711.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615160726.jpeg)
I then used the ZAP-A-GAP Medium CA glue to glue the rail to the ties.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615160742.jpeg)
Of course this is just a sample of what I did but at least you get the idea of how it was done.
Continued in a few.
I remember that I had some trestle pieces some where in the man cave. It took me about an hour to find them. Yes, they were in the next to the last box I looked through. These trestles are from an old layout 5 times ago.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615151750.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615151816.jpeg)
I carefully removed the cross bracing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615151837.jpeg)
I then removed the round pilings from the 12x12 at the top and started work on the small trestle pieces I needed.
Continued in a few.
I don't have photos of the next few steps but I'll pass on the information. The old trestle pieces were stained with Floquil Oak Flo-Stain and the A&I was added.
As you can see from the above photos they are to light brown for creosote treated pieces. I lightly sanded the round pilings and added two more coats of Hunterline Weathering Mix using the creosote black. This still didn't give me the look I wanted so I applied a third coat of Hunterline Weathering mix but this time I used the cordovan brown stain. This turned out to be perfect coloring for the creosote.
The photos below are of the new trestle pieces but the LED's on my work bench make them look lighter than they actually are.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615151855.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615151915.jpeg)
Later in the thread you'll be able to see how dark they are.
Continued in a few.
Wow, they even stand without falling over.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615151931.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615151931.jpeg)
On the bottom of the Central Valley bridge ties I glued two pieces of scale 10X12's. The trestle pieces fit under the 10X12's. When I slid them under the ties they didn't fit. I thought I measured correctly but didn't take into consideration the swelling of the scale wood when the stains were applied.
I turned the trestle bents over and lightly sanded the top of the scale 10X10's until they fit snugly.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615151950.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615151950.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615152012.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615152012.jpeg)
When they were all in place, I stained them.
Continued in a few.
I then truned the whole bascule bridge over and began adding the eight trestle sections to the underside. I used a square to ensure the 90 degree angle.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615152032.jpeg)
Fast forward and they are all done.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615152049.jpeg)
I then tested the bridge in place and thankfully it all fit and was still level. Being level is a good thing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615152104.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The bridge is in place and looks great! Now you can see how dark the trestle sections are.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155003.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155019.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155033.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155049.jpeg)
The ACL East Coast Champion made the maiden run on the new bascule bridge over the Suwannee River.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155109.jpeg)
The run was so smooth the travelers didn't even spill the coffee.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155125.jpeg)
Looks like the end to me.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155146.jpeg)
Great stuff
Thanx
Bob
Quote from: bparrish on June 11, 2015, 05:04:53 PM
Great stuff
Thanx
Bob
Bob,
Thank you very much, I appreciate you following. Comments or criticisms are always welcome.
Tom ;D
Tom, I really enjoy watching your layout take shape. There is so much good information to pick up on. I am always glad to see new updates.
Quote from: coors2u on June 11, 2015, 05:51:42 PM
Tom, I really enjoy watching your layout take shape. There is so much good information to pick up on. I am always glad to see new updates.
Dustin,
Thanks for checking in, much appreciated. I'm happy to see new updates as well, it means I'm getting it done. ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Good Evening Tom,
That Bascule bridge looks much better on your layout than it did on mine. Speaking of finding lost things, the other day I was digging around looking for something and I find the other end of the bridge. You solution is much better that what the manufacturer provide, so I didn't want to slow you down. Progress is really looking great. I have been spending some time trying to clean out my mothers house. At 99, there is now way she can go back to it. I am also finishing up the details on O.V. Hooker and Tucker & Cook. Next week, I begin the journey on East End Market. Raymo has been doing a great job ferreting out the details for me.
Keep posting pictures of your wonderful layout. Quick Question. At what level do you go down the center of your room for the passenger depot? I sort of lost the picture.
Frank / Erieman
Looking good and moving fast. Nice work!
John
Beautiful work on the bridge. Nice looking train crossing the bridge also. Are those F or E units?
Oh boy.....Bill will be going around in circles Saturday! ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 11, 2015, 04:56:04 PM
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155049.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155049.jpeg)
The ACL East Coast Champion made the maiden run on the new bascule bridge over the Suwannee River.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155109.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155109.jpeg)
The run was so smooth the travelers didn't even spill the coffee.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155125.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155125.jpeg)
Looks like the end to me.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155146.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155146.jpeg)
Uncle Tommie, I'm surprised by you! It's wasn't the coffee that the passengers where concerned about spilling but it was there "Diet Pepsi" bottles!
hehe
;D ;D ;D
Tom,
I'm sure you're way ahead of me on this, but don't forget to paint the water surface where the pilings will be before you fasten it.
don't ask how I know to do this :o
John
Quote from: Cuse on June 12, 2015, 07:33:12 AM
Tom,
I'm sure you're way ahead of me on this, but don't forget to paint the water surface where the pilings will be before you fasten it.
don't ask how I know to do this :o
John
O.K. John, I won't ask you how you know!!!! ?
Quote from: Erieman on June 11, 2015, 07:29:37 PM
Good Evening Tom,
That Bascule bridge looks much better on your layout than it did on mine. Speaking of finding lost things, the other day I was digging around looking for something and I find the other end of the bridge. You solution is much better that what the manufacturer provide, so I didn't want to slow you down. Progress is really looking great. I have been spending some time trying to clean out my mothers house. At 99, there is now way she can go back to it. I am also finishing up the details on O.V. Hooker and Tucker & Cook. Next week, I begin the journey on East End Market. Raymo has been doing a great job ferreting out the details for me.
Keep posting pictures of your wonderful layout. Quick Question. At what level do you go down the center of your room for the passenger depot? I sort of lost the picture.
Frank / Erieman
Morning Frank,
Thanks for stopping by. I never liked the addition to the bridge that came with the kit. Like you, I prefer my own solution.
Good luck on getting the stuff cleaned out of your mother's home. When I did it for my dad I found all kinds of good stuff. You can't assume anything you find in the house junk. I found some old books with $2.00 bills between the pages.
I can't wait to see how you build the East End Market. And, Raymo sure is good at helping other modelers.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on June 11, 2015, 07:31:01 PM
Looking good and moving fast. Nice work!
John
John,
Thanks Butty, much appreciated. Being retired sure helps to keep things moving.
Tom ;D
Quote from: UP Fan on June 11, 2015, 07:32:22 PM
Beautiful work on the bridge. Nice looking train crossing the bridge also. Are those F or E units?
Bob,
Thanks very much. The bridge was a fun build. The ACL units are E7's by BLI and all are powered.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on June 11, 2015, 08:31:41 PM
Oh boy.....Bill will be going around in circles Saturday! ;D ;D ;D
Butty Greg,
Yes, I believe he will.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 12, 2015, 06:41:59 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 link=topic=53.msg29580#msg29580 date=1434056164
color=purple]The run was so smooth the travelers didn't even spill the coffee.[/color]
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155125.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155125.jpeg)
Uncle Tommie, I'm surprised by you! It's wasn't the coffee that the passengers where concerned about spilling but it was there "Diet Pepsi" bottles!
hehe
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
I think you need more Diet Pepsi. In 1951 there was NO Diet Pepsi to be had. Hence, the coffee. Pepsi maybe, but no DP!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on June 12, 2015, 07:33:12 AM
Tom,
I'm sure you're way ahead of me on this, but don't forget to paint the water surface where the pilings will be before you fasten it.
don't ask how I know to do this :o
John
John,
Yes, I'm right there. You can see in some of the above photos where I've been testing some colors for shallow, medium and deep water.
The bridge area isn't finished, I still need to plant some pillings around the trestle and left side of the bridge.
Thanks for mentioning it. Don't ask how I know either. I've made that mistake 5 layouts ago.
Tom ;D
This is probably a no brainer for most but it's been on my mind now for several years to mention.
When I see pictures of layouts, one of the things I look at is the trackwork. Specifically with curved trackwork. The trackwork needs to be smooth in the curves. If you are using flex track or hand laying track the solution is the same.
However, let me mention the problem first. Say you are using a three foot section of track or rail and you come up short in the curve or your 38" radius. A great majority of people just slip on a rail joiner, solder it to another piece of straight rail or track and spike it down continuing the curve. The problem here is that you create a very small/short section of straight rail in the curve. It's not that noticeable to the eye but trust me you rolling stock trucks will notice it.
The solution is simple but requires a little more patience in the track laying department.
Prior to bending/making the curve I want/need, I solder two straight sections of track together.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155225.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155225.jpeg)
When the track is then bent/curved to your radius, you have a much smoother curve and your train will appreciate the effort.
In the past I've found it necessary to solder three sections together prior to laying the track on the curve. The bending of flextrack in 9 foot sections is very difficult but then again you get what you pay for.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155200.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155200.jpeg)
Each of the curved track in the photo below has two 3' sections soldered together prior to spiking them to the cork roadbed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140615093918.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140615093918.jpeg)
Hope this helps someone.
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 14, 2015, 09:48:07 AM
This is probably a no brainer for most but it's been on my mind now for several years to mention.
When I see pictures of layouts, one of the things I look at is the trackwork. Specifically with curved trackwork. The trackwork needs to be smooth in the curves. If you are using flex track or hand laying track the solution is the same.
However, let me mention the problem first. Say you are using a three foot section of track or rail and you come up short in the curve or your 38" radius. A great majority of people just slip on a rail joiner, solder it to another piece of straight rail or track and spike it down continuing the curve. The problem here is that you create a very small/short section of straight rail in the curve. It's not that noticeable to the eye but trust me you rolling stock trucks will notice it.
The solution is simple but requires a little more patience in the track laying department.
Prior to bending/making the curve I want/need, I solder two straight sections of track together.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155225.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155225.jpeg)
When the track is then bent/curved to your radius, you have a much smoother curve and your train will appreciate the effort.
In the past I've found it necessary to solder three sections together prior to laying the track on the curve. The bending of flextrack in 9 foot sections is very difficult but then again you get what you pay for.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155200.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110615155200.jpeg)
Each of the curved track in the photo below has two 3' sections soldered together prior to spiking them to the cork roadbed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140615093918.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140615093918.jpeg)
Hope this helps someone.
Great tip Tom - I would add that you want to be careful how far you go with soldiered sections of track. You need expansion and contraction joints because it is very easy to get a expansion buckle in the track that can spoil that beautiful continuous curve. If you are modeling mountains - like some of us crazy people - the buckles always show up in the tunnels where you can't see them.
Love this Tom!
Quote from: S&S RR on June 14, 2015, 08:34:41 PM
Great tip Tom - I would add that you want to be careful how far you go with soldiered sections of track. You need expansion and contraction joints because it is very easy to get a expansion buckle in the track that can spoil that beautiful continuous curve. If you are modeling mountains - like some of us crazy people - the buckles always show up in the tunnels where you can't see them.
John,
Thanks for adding to ther post. I should mention that I leave several places around the layout track work where the rail joints aren't soldered. To help with the track staying in line yet letting it expand/contract with the weather, I use Atlas "N" scale code 80 rail joiners. They are much smaller and fit tighter than the HO rail joiners.
Tom ;D
Quote from: LongHornCaddy on June 14, 2015, 09:49:01 PM
Love this Tom!
Leo,
I'm gald you are enjoying the thread. Thanks for stopping by.
Tom ;D
Hi,
Tom,you made a lot of great progress on your layout. The bridge scenes are looking well thought.....
Thanks for sharing your build.
Chris
Quote from: Twist67 on June 18, 2015, 10:30:54 AM
Hi,
Tom,you made a lot of great progress on your layout. The bridge scenes are looking well thought.....
Thanks for sharing your build.
Chris
Chris,
Thanks for the kind comments. The bridges have been well considered, not only for the location but for the appearance on the layout. I'm glad you are enjoying the build thread.
Tom ;D
What's not to enjoy????? ;D
Quote from: Donato on June 18, 2015, 02:50:29 PM
What's not to enjoy? ??? ? ;D
Donato,
I'm happy you are enjoying it as well. I'll have a little more to post this weekend.
Tom ;D
It seems that my additions to the build thread come in bunches like bananas. I have been working but have been very lazy these past few weeks with any updates. I'll just blame it on the oppressive heat although my train room does have A/C. But it's hot ourside.
When I first started building the layout, specifically the ovalix, I thought I needed two reverse loops at the staging level. Well after the ovalix was under construction, I made the decision I didn't need the one on the south end.
However, only one problem. The space where the two turnouts were located is 3 1/4" high. I forgot to take a photo of the space with the track and turnouts in place but here it is after the track and turnouts were removed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180415174031.jpeg)
I wasn't concerned how I got the track out so I pretty much just cut the track and grabbed the pliers.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180415174013.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
This is where the two turnouts were located. Oops, I see a piece of broken cut off disk.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180415174126.jpeg)
In the photo below, you can see I have a section of flex track ready to install in the area of the old track/turnouts. Notice in the photo the lower track on the ovalix?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180415174142.jpeg)
Well, the new track needs to be installed just below that in the dark area in the back. Yea, I know, crazy stuff here.
After a couple of hours and many bad words spoken I "got ER done"!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180415174204.jpeg)
I did this repair about a month ago and have experienced no problems with that section of track in the bowls of the ovalix.
I have more updates but need to get motivated to upload, crop, size and transfer the photos to the forum.
Eventually I get to it. 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 28, 2015, 03:28:30 PM
I have more updates but need to get motivated to upload, crop, size and transfer the photos to the forum.
Eventually I get to it. 8)
Tom ;D
Uncle Tommy,
Just chalk this up to earning your "Procrastinator Certificate".
BTW, I read this week that the Pepsi Corporation had record profits this quarter. I take it that your back to drinking the "Juice" again?
;D ;D ;D :o
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 28, 2015, 03:28:30 PM
I have more updates but need to get motivated to upload, crop, size and transfer the photos to the forum.
Eventually I get to it. 8)
Tom ;D
Tom
When your retired - the right time is when you get to it. Your last few posts on laying track reminded me that I have some track work that needs replacing inside the mountains on my layout. It was a mistake to try to save any of the track work from the old layout. I'm sure there will be some, "Blue Air floating above the mountain tops", before I get it done.
Good luck with the Doctor!
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on July 10, 2015, 12:14:36 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 28, 2015, 03:28:30 PM
I have more updates but need to get motivated to upload, crop, size and transfer the photos to the forum.
Eventually I get to it. 8)
Tom ;D
Uncle Tommy,
Just chalk this up to earning your "Procrastinator Certificate".
BTW, I read this week that the Pepsi Corporation had record profits this quarter. I take it that your back to drinking the "Juice" again?
;D ;D ;D :o
Cousin Brucie,
Good to see you my friend. Yes, I have been a bit of the procrastinator of late but I'm getting better, I promise. Yes, I'm back drinking the Diet Pepsi but I've cut way back. I'm drinking more water these days.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on July 10, 2015, 07:44:35 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on June 28, 2015, 03:28:30 PM
I have more updates but need to get motivated to upload, crop, size and transfer the photos to the forum.
Eventually I get to it. 8)
Tom ;D
Tom
When your retired - the right time is when you get to it. Your last few posts on laying track reminded me that I have some track work that needs replacing inside the mountains on my layout. It was a mistake to try to save any of the track work from the old layout. I'm sure there will be some, "Blue Air floating above the mountain tops", before I get it done.
Good luck with the Doctor!
John,
Thanks for the well wishes on the hand. I'll find out more on the 30th of this month. I'm so far behind on the posting to the layout and build threads I just need to bite the bullet and start posting.
On my old layout I was able to save all the track that wasn't ballasted. Thankfuly I didn't have but 20 ft. or so with ballast.
Tom ;D
I know it's been awhile since I last posted but the 1:1 stuff just seems to pop up every now and then and that is to often for me. 8) 8) 8)
I've finished about 95% of the track work on the second level. I want to show you how I made the bridge track/lift out for the second level. This has worked out so much better than the one I did for the staging level. I'll redo the lower/staging level one later this summer.
Greg DeMayo suggested I seal the bench work in this area of the bridge lift out with Polyurethane. I got a can from Ace Hardware. The polyurethane seals the wood and prevents the changing climate in the layout room from affecting the lift out.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715120958.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I made the lift out in the same way I did for the first level. This time; however, I didn't use the brass strips for contacts.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715120932.jpeg)
I got a two wire jack from Radio Shack.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121019.jpeg)
I soldered two wires to the female end of the jack. I drilled a hole in the 1x4 a little smaller than the jack and pushed the jack into the wood hole.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121039.jpeg)
I soldered two wires to the track on the lift out and the other ends of the wire to the jack. Now I just plug in the jack when the lift out is in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715141057.jpeg)
I attached the track to the lift out but this time I overlapped the gap on the lift out. I then used a fine bladed Zacto razor saw and cut the track at the gap between the layout and the lift out.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121059.jpeg)
In the next photo you can see the thin profile of the saw.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121120.jpeg)
And now you can see the very thin cut in the track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121143.jpeg)
This has been a much more effecient way to wire and install the lift out. The rails are very smooth and there are no bumps when the train crosses the lift out.
I can't say this about the lower level lift out.
Glad to see that you braced it well so when that DeMayo guy comes over and leans against it!! ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on July 13, 2015, 12:22:18 AM
Glad to see that you braced it well so when that DeMayo guy comes over and leans against it!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Yes, you are correct. One day after I was finished with a section of the ovalix, DeMayo came over grabbed hold of the ovalix and started pulling and pushing.
I said, "What the He-- are you doing?" He said, "Checking to see how sturdy it is." I said, "This is HO scale and will hold, it may not hold a force 5 pushing and pulling"
We both had a good laugh over that incident. I'll also say, he hasn't tried it since. Something about a 9mm.
Tom
For several years now I've been saying I was going to build a section of track to check couple height and ease of uncoupling. Well, the Judge and I finally did just that.
He bought a great piece of 1x4 oak from Lumber Liquidators. The piece was three feet long and a perfect fit for a section of cork and ME Code 83 track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121422.jpeg)
I used Code 83 ME flex track and inserted a section of Atlas Code 83 rerailer off to one side of center. I also installed a Kadee Code 83 uncoupling magnet to the longest portion of the track. I then glued a Kadee uncoupling height jig to each end.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150715163404.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150715163349.jpeg)
Today we used the jig to set 50 freight cars to the correct coupler height and gladhands on the coupler to the track magnet. It took us about 6 hours to correctly set the cars. The jig will also allow me to use two 50' freight cars or two heavyweight passenger cars.
Some of the things we did were to replace all wheel sets with Intermountain 33" non-magnetic wheels. We adjusted 85% of the couplers to the correct height and replaced all the McHenry couplers with Kadee scale #158 "scale" metal whisker couplers, medium centerset shank couplers. After each car was fixed, we marked the bottom of each car with a silver dot or dash. This allows us to know which cars have been given the treatment. We used a silver inked Sharpie for the marking.
We removed 6 cars from the service that I deemed not worth the investment of updating. These cars had broken stirups, unfixable ladders, etc.
This is one area where most modelers fail to consider when attempting to get the trains runnning smoothly.
I've found Intermountain wheel sets to be superior to Kadee sets as the drag is much less. Just my humble opinion of course.
Add power feed, and this will double as a DCC Programming Track...
dave
Quote from: deemery on July 15, 2015, 05:44:32 PM
Add power feed, and this will double as a DCC Programming Track...
dave
Dave,
Yes, it would, great tip. I do; however, have a programming track on the layout. Thanks for checking in.
Tom ;D
(Locomotives are not immune from the dreaded "coupler droop")
dave
Sounds like the Judge issued a good sentence on most of your rolling stock!!
Quote from: deemery on July 15, 2015, 06:31:33 PM
(Locomotives are not immune from the dreaded "coupler droop")
dave
Dave,
You are correct, the locos are on the schedule. I've already had to replace some of the gear sets on the older Walthers E Units.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on July 15, 2015, 11:01:05 PM
Sounds like the Judge issued a good sentence on most of your rolling stock!!
Gman,
Yes, he did. I wouldn't let him give any light sentences to the offenders. We did release a few cars on parole. 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Cool idea on the coupler jig. I may have to do something like that.
Jeff
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 15, 2015, 04:38:47 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on July 13, 2015, 12:22:18 AM
Glad to see that you braced it well so when that DeMayo guy comes over and leans against it!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Yes, you are correct. One day after I was finished with a section of the ovalix, DeMayo came over grabbed hold of the ovalix and started pulling and pushing.
I said, "What the He-- are you doing?" He said, "Checking to see how sturdy it is." I said, "This is HO scale and will hold, it may not hold a force 5 pushing and pulling"
We both had a good laugh over that incident. I'll also say, he hasn't tried it since. Something about a 9mm.
Tom
It's called quality control.....somebody has to check the structural integrity of the construction or Tom will get another red tag from our favorite building inspector.
I'll see you're 9mm and raise you with a 50 caliber. I really need one when I drive down I-4! ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 16, 2015, 09:36:55 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 15, 2015, 04:38:47 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on July 13, 2015, 12:22:18 AM
Glad to see that you braced it well so when that DeMayo guy comes over and leans against it!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Yes, you are correct. One day after I was finished with a section of the ovalix, DeMayo came over grabbed hold of the ovalix and started pulling and pushing.
I said, "What the He-- are you doing?" He said, "Checking to see how sturdy it is." I said, "This is HO scale and will hold, it may not hold a force 5 pushing and pulling"
We both had a good laugh over that incident. I'll also say, he hasn't tried it since. Something about a 9mm.
Tom
It's called quality control.....somebody has to check the structural integrity of the construction or Tom will get another red tag from our favorite building inspector.
I'll see you're 9mm and raise you with a 50 caliber. I really need one when I drive down I-4! ;D
Ah, children playing with guns. Here's mine (M198 howitzer, NH ARNG had 3 Battalions, each of 18 guns, when I was there.)
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fusarmy.vo.llnwd.net%2Fe2%2F-images%2F2008%2F10%2F15%2F23835%2Farmy.mil-2008-10-15-073924.jpg&hash=e851c06191521ffae48ce15184b9c7f48eafcdd8)
dave
Quote from: deemery on July 16, 2015, 10:07:57 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 16, 2015, 09:36:55 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 15, 2015, 04:38:47 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on July 13, 2015, 12:22:18 AM
Glad to see that you braced it well so when that DeMayo guy comes over and leans against it!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Yes, you are correct. One day after I was finished with a section of the ovalix, DeMayo came over grabbed hold of the ovalix and started pulling and pushing.
I said, "What the He-- are you doing?" He said, "Checking to see how sturdy it is." I said, "This is HO scale and will hold, it may not hold a force 5 pushing and pulling"
We both had a good laugh over that incident. I'll also say, he hasn't tried it since. Something about a 9mm.
Tom
It's called quality control.....somebody has to check the structural integrity of the construction or Tom will get another red tag from our favorite building inspector.
I'll see you're 9mm and raise you with a 50 caliber. I really need one when I drive down I-4! ;D
Ah, children playing with guns. Here's mine (M198 howitzer, NH ARNG had 3 Battalions, each of 18 guns, when I was there.)
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fusarmy.vo.llnwd.net%2Fe2%2F-images%2F2008%2F10%2F15%2F23835%2Farmy.mil-2008-10-15-073924.jpg&hash=e851c06191521ffae48ce15184b9c7f48eafcdd8) (http://usarmy.vo.llnwd.net/e2/-images/2008/10/15/23835/army.mil-2008-10-15-073924.jpg)
dave
Now that's a gun!!! Can I get one of those to mount on my Jeep for the ride down I-4? ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on July 16, 2015, 08:01:57 AM
Cool idea on the coupler jig. I may have to do something like that.
Jeff
Jeff,
I've been meaning to do this for several years. It will be much easier for me to get all the cars to one standard and cars new to the layout by using the jig. A little time consuming to get all the cars calibrated for the layout but the payoff in the long run will be well worth the effort.
Thanks Doc for stopping by.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 16, 2015, 09:36:55 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 15, 2015, 04:38:47 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on July 13, 2015, 12:22:18 AM
Glad to see that you braced it well so when that DeMayo guy comes over and leans against it!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Yes, you are correct. One day after I was finished with a section of the ovalix, DeMayo came over grabbed hold of the ovalix and started pulling and pushing.
I said, "What the He-- are you doing?" He said, "Checking to see how sturdy it is." I said, "This is HO scale and will hold, it may not hold a force 5 pushing and pulling"
We both had a good laugh over that incident. I'll also say, he hasn't tried it since. Something about a 9mm.
Tom
It's called quality control.....somebody has to check the structural integrity of the construction or Tom will get another red tag from our favorite building inspector.
I'll see you're 9mm and raise you with a 50 caliber. I really need one when I drive down I-4! ;D
Greg,
Again, I'm publicly giving you credit for the CAD design on the ovalix. Yes, I did build it; however, without your demensions and design it never would have been built to the superior standards I hold near and dear.
So, all kidding aside, the ovalix is one very strong structure. Thanks my friend.
Oh, by the way, Tom Wilson gave the red inspection report for the Judge's trackwork, not my ovalix! Just saying.
Tom ;D
Dave,
Okay, your gun is bigger and better than mine. I give to you my friend. Wonderful piece of artillary.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 16, 2015, 10:45:33 AM
Quote from: deemery on July 16, 2015, 10:07:57 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 16, 2015, 09:36:55 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 15, 2015, 04:38:47 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on July 13, 2015, 12:22:18 AM
Glad to see that you braced it well so when that DeMayo guy comes over and leans against it!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Yes, you are correct. One day after I was finished with a section of the ovalix, DeMayo came over grabbed hold of the ovalix and started pulling and pushing.
I said, "What the He-- are you doing?" He said, "Checking to see how sturdy it is." I said, "This is HO scale and will hold, it may not hold a force 5 pushing and pulling"
We both had a good laugh over that incident. I'll also say, he hasn't tried it since. Something about a 9mm.
Tom
It's called quality control.....somebody has to check the structural integrity of the construction or Tom will get another red tag from our favorite building inspector.
I'll see you're 9mm and raise you with a 50 caliber. I really need one when I drive down I-4! ;D
Ah, children playing with guns. Here's mine (M198 howitzer, NH ARNG had 3 Battalions, each of 18 guns, when I was there.)
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fusarmy.vo.llnwd.net%2Fe2%2F-images%2F2008%2F10%2F15%2F23835%2Farmy.mil-2008-10-15-073924.jpg&hash=e851c06191521ffae48ce15184b9c7f48eafcdd8) (http://usarmy.vo.llnwd.net/e2/-images/2008/10/15/23835/army.mil-2008-10-15-073924.jpg)
dave
Now that's a gun!!! Can I get one of those to mount on my Jeep for the ride down I-4? ;D
Your jeep won't be able to handle the recoil! :-) You need one of these instead.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fraceriv.com%2Fimg%2Fimages%2Fpaladin-firing-2.jpg&hash=463f0e3f218486ed8fc1089edb3c700f116f65dd)
dave
On a little follow up from the post yesterday I'd like to add one more thing. I mentioned after the car was checked/adjusted for the A&S RR, I marked a dot on the bottom of the car. This indicates to me that the car has been checked.
In the photo below I'm showing both the Atlantic and Southern and the Atlantic Coast Line boxcars.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715171909.jpeg)
The A&S car was done this year and the ACL car had been adjusted two years ago. The top A&S car has one dot and the ACL car has a dot and a dash. The A&S car has been checked once and the ACL car has been checked twice. With this simple dot dash or dot dot or dash dash, what ever system you use, you will know how often the car has been checked or updated.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715171924.jpeg)
This way you won't find yourself rechecking a car that doesn't need it. Both cars were marked with a Sharpie Silver Metallic permanent marker.
I decided to use the area in front of the ovalix as a small engine repair/lubritorium facility.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121205.jpeg)
I wanted to have two tracks to the engine house, one track to the right as a fuel track for tank cars and one track to the left of the engine house for storage of certain equipment or a hold repair track.
I also decided to cover the entire area with cork.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121253.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121313.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121330.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121347.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121407.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120715121407.jpeg)
After laying the track to the left of the engine house, I decided I didn't like the track that close to the edge of the layout.
I chose to add three inches to the left side of the engine house. I screwed 1x4's to the bracing to extend the bracing out another 3 inches. This still gives me an isle width of 34 inches.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172010.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172010.jpeg)
Yes, the last section of track next to the engine house isn't straight. It is just laying there.
I cut a three inch piece of plywood and screwed it to the new 1x4 extentions.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172029.jpeg)
After screwing this in place I neglected to get a picture. You will be able to see it in place in the next few posts.
Continued in a few.
Michaels Craft Store has (or at least had) 1' square cork panels that would be perfect for doing yards like this. It's a great idea.
dave
After making the three inch addition to the repair shop area. I decided to go ahead and add the second level valance.
I cut a piece of Masonite four and 1/4" wide. This measurment covers the 1x4 and the thickness of the plywood. It also gives me a little lip above the plywood to allow for scenery material.
I used Tight Grips to hold the valance in place. I drilled a small pilot hold and then used a larger drill bit to ream out the hold. I put the drill on very slow rotation so I didn't drill a huge hole in the valance.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172148.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172148.jpeg)
You can see in the above photo the valance covers the 1/4, the plywood deck and still there is a little lip at the top so the scenery material is flush with the installed valance.
Continued in a few.
Quote from: deemery on July 16, 2015, 05:54:17 PM
Michaels Craft Store has (or at least had) 1' square cork panels that would be perfect for doing yards like this. It's a great idea.
dave
Dave,
When I checked at Michaels and Hobby Lobby, both stores were out. So, I did the next best thing, I just used the cork roadbed without pulling it apart. I didn't want to wait for the new shipment. I was on a mission.
Tom
I measured and cut a small section of plywood for the corners.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172053.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172053.jpeg)
I screwed this in place and then started the valance. Sorry, I got as little ahead of myself. I'll blame the Ledbetters for this!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172114.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172114.jpeg)
In the next photo you can see the screw fit flush with the valance. Heck, I even used screws for the old layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172203.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172203.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Oh yes, level is definitely a very good thing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172132.jpeg)
Fast forward and the 8 ft. section of valance is in place. You can now see the 3 inch section of plywood I added to the engine house area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160715172221.jpeg)
Quote from: deemery on July 16, 2015, 04:10:34 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 16, 2015, 10:45:33 AM
Quote from: deemery on July 16, 2015, 10:07:57 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 16, 2015, 09:36:55 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 15, 2015, 04:38:47 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on July 13, 2015, 12:22:18 AM
Glad to see that you braced it well so when that DeMayo guy comes over and leans against it!! ;D ;D ;D
Gman,
Yes, you are correct. One day after I was finished with a section of the ovalix, DeMayo came over grabbed hold of the ovalix and started pulling and pushing.
I said, "What the He-- are you doing?" He said, "Checking to see how sturdy it is." I said, "This is HO scale and will hold, it may not hold a force 5 pushing and pulling"
We both had a good laugh over that incident. I'll also say, he hasn't tried it since. Something about a 9mm.
Tom
It's called quality control.....somebody has to check the structural integrity of the construction or Tom will get another red tag from our favorite building inspector.
I'll see you're 9mm and raise you with a 50 caliber. I really need one when I drive down I-4! ;D
Ah, children playing with guns. Here's mine (M198 howitzer, NH ARNG had 3 Battalions, each of 18 guns, when I was there.)
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fusarmy.vo.llnwd.net%2Fe2%2F-images%2F2008%2F10%2F15%2F23835%2Farmy.mil-2008-10-15-073924.jpg&hash=e851c06191521ffae48ce15184b9c7f48eafcdd8) (http://usarmy.vo.llnwd.net/e2/-images/2008/10/15/23835/army.mil-2008-10-15-073924.jpg)
dave
Now that's a gun!!! Can I get one of those to mount on my Jeep for the ride down I-4? ;D
Your jeep won't be able to handle the recoil! :-) You need one of these instead.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fraceriv.com%2Fimg%2Fimages%2Fpaladin-firing-2.jpg&hash=463f0e3f218486ed8fc1089edb3c700f116f65dd) (http://raceriv.com/img/images/paladin-firing-2.jpg)
dave
I'll take one.....oh darn, now I'll have to enlarge the garage. ;D
The lubricating yard and fascia look good Tom. 8)
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 17, 2015, 08:27:41 AM
The lubricating yard and fascia look good Tom. 8)
Greg,
Thank you, much appreciated. And thanks for checking in and posting a comment. I guess it is a fascia, not sure why I was thinking valance. Just another senior moment all over again, DANG!
Tom ;D
Tom,
you made some nice progress on your layout. With the fascia installed to the front it looks way cleaner....Have to add the last pieces on my layout,too....
Keep up the great work....
Regards,Chris
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 17, 2015, 09:30:10 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 17, 2015, 08:27:41 AM
The lubricating yard and fascia look good Tom. 8)
Greg,
Thank you, much appreciated. And thanks for checking in and posting a comment. I guess it is a fascia, not sure why I was thinking valance. Just another senior moment all over again, DANG!
Tom ;D
Valance/fascia.....it's that vertical thingie that runs around the edge of the layout that keeps us from falling into a scene. ;D ;D ;D
At our age, we're entitled! :o ::) ;)
I"ll be back to the thread in a week or so. My cast comes off /Wednesday afternoon.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on August 11, 2015, 01:22:30 PM
I"ll be back to the thread in a week or so. My cast comes off /Wednesday afternoon.
Tom ;D
Tom
We are looking forward to your return. Thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery.
Let's not overdo it once we get the cast off, okay? :)
Jeff
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on August 11, 2015, 09:51:28 PM
Let's not overdo it once we get the cast off, okay? :)
Jeff
And here I thought Tom was the Poster Boy for "restraint". ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on August 11, 2015, 09:51:28 PM
Let's not overdo it once we get the cast off, okay? :)
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
I'll try but make no promises. Dr. White will tell me the limitations; however, I have the yard to edge and mow, pool to clean and mostly three open threads going I'm way behind on. :'( :'( :'( Other than those I should be in great shape. 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 12, 2015, 08:31:26 AM
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on August 11, 2015, 09:51:28 PM
Let's not overdo it once we get the cast off, okay? :)
Jeff
And here I thought Tom was the Poster Boy for "restraint". ;D
I guess it depends on my defination of restraint. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on August 11, 2015, 09:15:23 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on August 11, 2015, 01:22:30 PM
I"ll be back to the thread in a week or so. My cast comes off /Wednesday afternoon.
Tom ;D
Tom
We are looking forward to your return. Thoughts and prayers for a speedy recovery.
John,
Thank you, I'm ready!
Tom ;D
Quit foolin' around here and go get that damn cast off!
There's a whole passel of ACL fans here starving for pictorial updates of the realm.
Call me if you need a designated driver.
You can even call collect if need be. ;)
Quote from: BandOGuy on August 12, 2015, 09:13:18 AM
Quit foolin' around here and go get that damn cast off!
There's a whole passel of ACL fans here starving for pictorial updates of the realm.
Call me if you need a designated driver.
You can even call collect if need be. ;)
Chip,
The cast comes off in less than two hours. Really, no fooling! 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Tom,
My spouse received good news from her oncologist last month after several MRI'S, Cat Scans, and multiple blood tests that her protein levels are OK now. It was all good follow ups this year after her brain tumor removal that took place in the past. Hope all goes well at your doctor visit today and you can get back to modeling soon and posting those ACL photos again. Will keep you in our thoughts here.
Tom & Sandy Boyd
I've been accused of being light-headed many times, but I don't thnk I've seen a light-handed poster
on here before!!..
Leave it to Li'l Tommy for being the FIRST!!!
I can just hear him - "Babe, can you give me a hand with this piece of track? -The doctor told me not
to try to be 'BIG JOHN"!!!
Quote from: gnatshop on August 12, 2015, 06:40:51 PM
I've been accused of being light-headed many times, but I don't thnk I've seen a light-handed poster
on here before!!..
Leave it to Li'l Tommy for being the FIRST!!!
I can just hear him - "Babe, can you give me a hand with this piece of track? -The doctor told me not
to try to be 'BIG JOHN"!!!
That's Big BAD John, Arky! Or, to you, MR. Big Bad John, SIR!
I'm sure the rest of those assembled here welcome back, with open arms, two of our favorite, recently missing poster boys.
Now, let's go build something!!
OK, MR. BIG BAD JOHN, SIR , do you need me to send you some home mixed Arky poltices?
They all start with a base of home brewed Arkansas moonshine with a few medicinal herbs and roots
mixed in!! NUTHIN' FINER!!!
OH, Chippy boy, I can send you some without the the herbs and roots!!!....I know you're a purist!!!
OK. It's Thursday and the cast is off. Is the railroad finished yet? ;D
Jeff
Quote from: tom.boyd.125 on August 12, 2015, 03:26:19 PM
Tom,
My spouse received good news from her oncologist last month after several MRI'S, Cat Scans, and multiple blood tests that her protein levels are OK now. It was all good follow ups this year after her brain tumor removal that took place in the past. Hope all goes well at your doctor visit today and you can get back to modeling soon and posting those ACL photos again. Will keep you in our thoughts here.
Tom & Sandy Boyd
Tom,
First and most important is that Sandy has received a clean bill of health from the Oncologist. The skin cancer I had on the back of the right hand was an Invasive Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Nothing serious if removed early, which mine was but it was more extensive than believed once the hand was opened.
Long story short and I'm back typing with both hands and doing fine. I have restrictions on the use of the hand involving heavy work or intense use of the right hand. So that tells me I can build my booty off. 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Thanks again Tom and best to Sandy for a complete and continued recovery.
Tom ;D
Quote from: gnatshop on August 12, 2015, 06:40:51 PM
I've been accused of being light-headed many times, but I don't thnk I've seen a light-handed poster
on here before!!..
Leave it to Li'l Tommy for being the FIRST!!!
I can just hear him - "Babe, can you give me a hand with this piece of track? -The doctor told me not
to try to be 'BIG JOHN"!!!
Gman,
The cast is off and the Babe has already said you can get it yourself now. :'( :'( :'( :'( All kidding aside she was great as always. :-* :-* :-* :-* I wanted the cast off but the attention I was getting from her was wroth the wait. 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on August 12, 2015, 06:54:25 PM
Quote from: gnatshop on August 12, 2015, 06:40:51 PM
I've been accused of being light-headed many times, but I don't thnk I've seen a light-handed poster
on here before!!..
Leave it to Li'l Tommy for being the FIRST!!!
I can just hear him - "Babe, can you give me a hand with this piece of track? -The doctor told me not
to try to be 'BIG JOHN"!!!
That's Big BAD John, Arky! Or, to you, MR. Big Bad John, SIR!
I'm sure the rest of those assembled here welcome back, with open arms, two of our favorite, recently missing poster boys.
Now, let's go build something!!
Chip,
I'm back and will be updating this thread this afternoon. Thanks for the kind words and for checking in.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on August 13, 2015, 07:18:35 AM
OK. It's Thursday and the cast is off. Is the railroad finished yet? ;D
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
You were correct in my taking it easy once the cast came off. I had big ideas but now, "Je suis contente" to be taking my time. The railroad isn't finished but I do have lots of updates for this thread and the A&S build thread. Thanks for the support.
Tom ;D
I should have a few updates within the next week. I'm taking my time per Dr. Jeff to not try and overdue it right out of the gate. 8)
Tom ;D
Glad to hear that your doing well Tom. I just got back from the NMRA National meet in Portland Oregon last Sunday and man was that cool. Lot's of stuff to do and see in that town. Believe it or not but I even went to a guys house where he was using an old Turkey barn for a layout room! And if you ever think that there's not enough space for a railroad, one guy converted his garden shed into a layout room!
Now that's dedication to the hobby...... :o
;D ;D ;D
If anyone was wondering if the A&S RR had any connections, this should put you at ease.
Atlantic & Southern Railway
Tom Langford, President and CEO
O. H. Eaton, Jr., Ticket Agent
The Atlantic & Southern is an early 1950's three level railroad located in Florida. The three levels are connected by an ovalix. The lower level is a staging yard. The middle level is a rural Florida scene in Tahope County[1], with swampy river scenes, forests, a farm, small industries, a small city, a passenger station, and rural businesses. A small transfer yard provides classification and switching services in the town of Sanlando. The Tahope Branch Line provides service to the City of Tahope area. The upper level has major industries, an urban city, an extensive classification yard, roundhouse, diesel facilities, and a major passenger station. The ACL, L&N, NC&StL, and SAL all have trackage rights over the railroad. Other roads have passenger and freight agreements with the ACL and provide mostly passenger relief during the winter season. The A&S RR has regular need for coal both for local use and for electric power in Tahope County. The Pennsylvania Railroad happily provides diesel power for this service in exchange for free passes over the A&S RR for Pennsy brass hats [2]. It is rumored that sometime in the future the Pennsy will "loan" a few still serviceable steam locomotives to the A&S prior to relegating them to the scrap heap.
The ACL and the IC pool equipment for the Miami to Chicago run of the City of Miami passenger train. A section of the Pennsy's Broadway Limited swings south on a weekly basis during the winter season. The Southern Railway and the C&O provide limited passenger and freight service by agreement with ACL. The CB&Q provides east-west transcontinental passenger service out of Jacksonville with the Gulf Breeze section of the Pensacola Zephyr.
The A&S owns a few locomotives outright, it leases or "borrows" others. It also owns the yards, roundhouse, and diesel repair facilities. It contracts with other roads for maintenance and repair of locomotives in the A&S's extensive roundhouse and diesel repair facilities.
The A&S also provides local freight and passenger service in and around the rural Tahope area.
[1]Tahope is a Seminole Indian word meaning "fort."The swamps in Tahope County are full of Gators.
[2]When President Langford suggested this arrangement to the president of the Pennsylvania Railroad, he also asked for passes over that line.The Pennsy president wondered why that would be fair considering the Pennsy has over 4,000 miles of track and the A&S is just a local line located mainly in a Florida swamp. He was won over by Langford's logic when he said, "Your railroad may be a mite longer than mine, but mine is just as wide."
The rumor mill has it that some sort of complicated deal is in the works between the St. Louis & Denver and the Atlantic & Southern that will free up 4-8-4 J-3 Greenbriar #603 that the StL&D has leased from the C&O for service with the A&S as soon as it gets out of the shop.
The talk is this deal was struck to free up the C&O's EMD diesels to head up the streamlined cars for use on their winter snowbird train - the "Sunshine State Special". Ole' #603 would then be used with the heavyweights the C&O leased to the A&S to augment their passenger service during this very busy time of the year.
More on this as the negotiations move forward.
Here is a shot from an unamed railfan as the engine was on its way to the shops at the StL&D.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/27-210915091621-9246919.jpeg)
Tom and Greg..
I wonder if you two have been out in the sun a bit too much this summer........... and hitting the sauce (something beyond diet Pepsi) more than we have suspected here in the west......... You boys putting something in the Pepsi ? ? ?
These negotiations are something akin to the Hittite airline pilots who landed cross ways on a runway and noted how short it was but how wide it appeared.
see ya
Bob
Quote from: bparrish on September 21, 2015, 12:09:49 PM
Tom and Greg..
I wonder if you two have been out in the sun a bit too much this summer........... and hitting the sauce (something beyond diet Pepsi) more than we have suspected here in the west......... You boys putting something in the Pepsi ? ? ?
These negotiations are something akin to the Hittite airline pilots who landed cross ways on a runway and noted how short it was but how wide it appeared.
see ya
Bob
Bob,
It's not the Diet Pepsi, so it must be the sun! 8)
Tom 8)
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on September 05, 2015, 11:59:13 PM
Glad to hear that your doing well Tom. I just got back from the NMRA National meet in Portland Oregon last Sunday and man was that cool. Lot's of stuff to do and see in that town. Believe it or not but I even went to a guys house where he was using an old Turkey barn for a layout room! And if you ever think that there's not enough space for a railroad, one guy converted his garden shed into a layout room!
Now that's dedication to the hobby...... :o
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
Thanks for stopping by. I didn't see your post until this morning but then I haven't been on much the past few weeks. Glad to hear you had a great time. My current layout room was originally my tool shed. Yes, we are a dedicated bunch.
Tom ;D
I hope to have more to add in the next week. This has been one crazy summer.
Tom ;D
For some reason, this thread reminded me this AM of a line from one of my favorite movies, Stripes. Upon seeing their beloved sergeant who had been absent for some time, the line "It is alive" was uttered.
Glad to see this thread is "alive" again!! :)
Quote from: BandOGuy on October 06, 2015, 10:16:20 AM
For some reason, this thread reminded me this AM of a line from one of my favorite movies, Stripes. Upon seeing their beloved sergeant who had been absent for some time, the line "It is alive" was uttered.
Glad to see this thread is "alive" again!! :)
Thanks Chip, so am I! 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 06, 2015, 12:47:27 PM
Quote from: BandOGuy on October 06, 2015, 10:16:20 AM
For some reason, this thread reminded me this AM of a line from one of my favorite movies, Stripes. Upon seeing their beloved sergeant who had been absent for some time, the line "It is alive" was uttered.
Glad to see this thread is "alive" again!! :)
Thanks Chip, so am I! 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3I97IFc_zU
dave
That is a fact Jack, er, I mean Dave.
T ;D
I will have an update tomorrow evening.
Tom ;D
Okay, all is good and the cowboy is inching his way back into the saddle. I've been sidelined for the past three months and now I can get back to the real work. At least I wasn't put in the scrap line. And, as promised, here is an update on the layout.
I've had an area on the layout that has been a real pain in the backside for several months. I was going to fix it prior to the hand surgery.
The problem is when I want to reverse a train on the second level, there is an area on the north side of the ovalix where the train constantly derails. I guess this area track was laid with very little or poor planning on my part. Below is a photo of the area, its the top part of the reverse loop at the turnout.
Looking west-
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120553.jpeg)
Looking east-
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173032.jpeg)
The problem area #6 turnout and the not so gentle "S" curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173015.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
When any length of freight train passing through the turnout there is no problem. However, a passenger train of a few cars or more is a problem. I'll show a few photos below to explain the issue. After all, we all love photos don't we?
Here the Orange Blossom Special enters the turnout after coming off the 36" radius.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173051.jpeg)
It continues through the turnout and so far no problem.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173105.jpeg)
Now you can see the beginning of the snake curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173120.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Now, referring back to the photo below you can see the track comes off the back curve into a 9" straight back into a 36" curve and then into an opposite 36" curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240515120553.jpeg)
Scale 86' heavyweight and Budd cars don't like this kind of snake curve. In the photo below you can see the five passenger cars are all in different directions within a span of a few feet.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173158.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The end result of all the curves is an obvious derail 10 out of 9 times. Yes, you read that correctly, meaning it will derail every time and more.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173225.jpeg)
The solution is a more realistic curve and one that the passengers and passenger cars will appreciate. The derail location is on the second level and out of reach from the isle for the five finger crane to rerail. I have to get under the ovalix, get on a stool and reach over the ovalix to rerail the cars.
When the third level of the ovalix is installed, I won't have the luxury of reaching over and rerailing by hand. This area needs a permanent solution.
My solution and results will be posted Sunday or Monday afternoon.
Tom , I would think using a curved turnout in the place of the last curved rail would solve your problem.
Tom...
I've had my share of curved turn out problems and shy away from them. Besides a curved turnout does not aim the tangent to the corner.
It appears that you are using a left hand turn out with the straight being fitted into a curve. Change to a right hand and locate the turn out in the curve where the tangent to the corner works without kinking the flow of either line.
Depending on the radius........ consider a #8 turnout as they have a long throat for passenger traffic.
Otta fix it.
see ya
Bob
Quote from: Janbouli on October 09, 2015, 07:22:34 PM
Tom , I would think using a curved turnout in the place of the last curved rail would solve your problem.
Jan,
The curved turnout is how I fixed the problem. More on this in the next two days.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on October 10, 2015, 02:43:26 AM
Tom...
I've had my share of curved turn out problems and shy away from them. Besides a curved turnout does not aim the tangent to the corner.
It appears that you are using a left hand turn out with the straight being fitted into a curve. Change to a right hand and locate the turn out in the curve where the tangent to the corner works without kinking the flow of either line.
Depending on the radius........ consider a #8 turnout as they have a long throat for passenger traffic.
Otta fix it.
see ya
Bob
Bob,
I fixed the issue with a curved turnout, sorry! ;D ;D ;D ;D I'll address the other points you mentioned when I continue the thread. Thanks for the suggestions, they were all plausible but not practical for this situation.
Tom ;D
It's about time you got back to it.....you've been resting on your laurels far too long. ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 10, 2015, 10:13:19 AM
It's about time you got back to it.....you've been resting on your laurels far too long. ;D ;D ;D
Tom
What would you do without all your friends?
Tom,
Good to see you back working on your layout. Looks like you had a problem, and know you, have solved it with dispatch. Looking forward to seeing your progress now that you are now approved to get back to work.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: S&S RR on October 10, 2015, 10:43:54 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 10, 2015, 10:13:19 AM
It's about time you got back to it.....you've been resting on your laurels far too long. ;D ;D ;D
Tom
What would you do without all your friends?
.... and what would you do without your laurels.....(you wouldn't have anyplace to rest your **s ....!!)
Tom...
I didn't know you were gone but...........
A laurel and hardy welcome back...
see ya
Bob
The Scotsman in me would have done that with a RH #6 or #8 as Bob suggested, but the curved turnout will do the job just as well. And it's always nice to get rid of something that bothers your favorite trains, so congratulations on a good start.
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 10, 2015, 10:13:19 AM
It's about time you got back to it.....you've been resting on your laurels far too long. ;D ;D ;D
Thanks Greg; however, it wasn't laurels I was resting on! 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on October 10, 2015, 10:43:54 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 10, 2015, 10:13:19 AM
It's about time you got back to it.....you've been resting on your laurels far too long. ;D ;D ;D
Tom
What would you do without all your friends?
A man is truly rich when he can say he has friends, right? Thanks John for checking in.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on October 10, 2015, 01:27:38 PM
Tom,
Good to see you back working on your layout. Looks like you had a problem, and know you, have solved it with dispatch. Looking forward to seeing your progress now that you are now approved to get back to work.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, it is very good to be back at the layout. I did solve the problem and it actually works which is even more amazing considering my seemingly constant friendship with Mr. Murphy and his dang laws.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on October 10, 2015, 04:25:19 PM
Quote from: S&S RR on October 10, 2015, 10:43:54 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 10, 2015, 10:13:19 AM
It's about time you got back to it.....you've been resting on your laurels far too long. ;D ;D ;D
Tom
What would you do without all your friends?
.... and what would you do without your laurels.....(you wouldn't have anyplace to rest your **s ....!!)
Donato,
Exactly right my friend, exactly right. I guess it is good to have some sort of laurel to sit on.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on October 10, 2015, 04:40:23 PM
Tom...
I didn't know you were gone but...........
A laurel and hardy welcome back...
see ya
Bob
Bob,
Well, not gone in the sense of being out of town but gone in that I've been "surgeried up", my spelling of a nonexistant word, all summer. Hey, that's a great one. My laurel and Hardy thank you.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jbvb on October 11, 2015, 09:35:47 AM
The Scotsman in me would have done that with a RH #6 or #8 as Bob suggested, but the curved turnout will do the job just as well. And it's always nice to get rid of something that bothers your favorite trains, so congratulations on a good start.
James,
Thanks for stopping by and posting a comment. The curved turnout is how I went with solving the problem. The use of a right hand #6 or #8 created other problems.
Tom ;D
I'll have and update on the curved turnout later this afternoon. I need to upload and crop some additional photos. 8)
Tom ;D
In the next photo you can see I've placed a used Walthers #8 curved turnout further back in the 36" radius of the curve. This is and was the solution for the curve on the outside of the ovalix. I couldn't use the used turnout as I cut off the slide bar on the outside. I could use the one left at the bottom but it would leave me little room for the Tortoise turnout and linkage.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173241.jpeg)
I installed a new Walthers #8 as seen in the below photo. I've drilled a hole for the slide bar linkage. I should mention the Walthers #8 curved turnout has an outside radius of 36" and the inside a 32".
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173256.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I used a Tracksetta 36" radius track gauge to ensure a smooth easement into the curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173312.jpeg)
I did the same for the other end of this section of track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173330.jpeg)
By getting the track radius at 36" for this section, I found I had about a 19" length of space where a section of straight track could be used. The track in the bottom of the photo is the ovalix circle track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173346.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
After soldering the track for the new curve I installed the Tortoise.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145503.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145533.jpeg)
Continued later this afternoon.
Here is a view of the new radius for the second level area. The view is from the rear of the ovalix to to front.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145554.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145554.jpeg)
Here is the overhead view. The hole by the track is where the old turnout Tortoise throw bar was located. I now had the feeders for the reverse loop on this track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145615.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145615.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
There has been a little discussion about a #6, #8 or right hand turnout here to solve the problem. Believe me, I've been over all the possibilities for the area. The photo below show you the relation between the old #6 turnout location and the new curved trunout and new curved radius in that area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145636.jpeg)
Obviously the new trackage is a 100+ % improvement.
The next photo shows you how a #8 trunout would look/fit in the area. That was a no go. With the #8, the track goes further to the East and making the carius back to the mainline much more difficult in that the radius would be reduced to less than a 30" radius.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145659.jpeg)
Using a right hand turnout in the old area simply throws the outside track to much toward the wall and prevents the track from lining up with the mainline curved turnout on the East end.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145717.jpeg)
By using a #8 right hand curved turnout and by moving it back in the curve by three feet was the correct solution.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145738.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
New trackage looking East.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145801.jpeg)
New trackage looking West.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145820.jpeg)
Now one more look at the old trackage.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-091015173032.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The freight trains love it.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145842.jpeg)
Nice easy 36" radius on the gentle "S" curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145902.jpeg)
More in a few minutes. I need an ice cold Diet Pepsi.
The new trackage is a huge success. I have a video of a passenger train passing through the new tracks with no derailments. When I figure out how to post videos here I'll do it. IN the mean time, here are a few stills.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145918.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145935.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015145953.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015153808.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-111015153828.jpeg)
Thanks for following along.
Great solution Tom and the trackage looks to flow very naturally. Surely not the place where you want to have to worry about freights or passenger trains making it through as that does not look at all easy to get to !!
Well done and now the A&S can continue towards hauling freight / passengers and earning some revenue ...
I will continue to follow along as this new road takes shape in its new home and space.
Cheers, sure glad that hand has healed for you and you are back in the groove,
--Paul
I'm glad the curved right turnout , turned out right ;D ;D ;D
It's easy to look back in hindsight, and not to be critical, but why did you think the original turnout would work? It looks like a disaster waiting to happen. ::) I'm glad the curved turnout worked. :)
Jeff
The new arrangement looks much better Tom. :D I've been burned by those S curves before and with much shorter cars none the less (stuff happens when you're trying to do to much in a 4' by 6' space). :'(
Quote from: PaulS on October 11, 2015, 06:39:00 PM
Great solution Tom and the trackage looks to flow very naturally. Surely not the place where you want to have to worry about freights or passenger trains making it through as that does not look at all easy to get to !!
Well done and now the A&S can continue towards hauling freight / passengers and earning some revenue ...
I will continue to follow along as this new road takes shape in its new home and space.
Cheers, sure glad that hand has healed for you and you are back in the groove,
--Paul
Paul,
Thanks for the kind words. Trains back is revenue service is a good thing. Thanks also for following along. I hope to get much more done in the coming months.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on October 11, 2015, 07:29:24 PM
I'm glad the curved right turnout , turned out right ;D ;D ;D
Jan,
Yes, the curved right turnout did turnout right! Finally, I took a turn and it turned out right! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on October 11, 2015, 08:07:54 PM
It's easy to look back in hindsight, and not to be critical, but why did you think the original turnout would work? It looks like a disaster waiting to happen. ::) I'm glad the curved turnout worked. :)
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
The answer to your question is very simple. I was just a dang idiot here. I failed to adhere to the principle of the 6 P's.
PROPER PLANNING PREVENTS PISS POOR PERFORMANCE.
Thanks for checking in, much appreciated.
Tom 8)
Quote from: ReadingBob on October 12, 2015, 07:30:33 AM
The new arrangement looks much better Tom. :D I've been burned by those S curves before and with much shorter cars none the less (stuff happens when you're trying to do to much in a 4' by 6' space). :'(
Bob,
Thank you, much appreciated. I have no idea what in the world I was thinking. I'll just blame it on everyone else but me. Oh well, live and learn is possible.
Tom ;D
El prez does well again.....even if his "laurels" are getting a little long in the tooth. ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 12, 2015, 08:52:24 AM
El prez does well again.....even if his "laurels" are getting a little long in the tooth. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Thanks, much appreciated. And, just for the record my laurels aren't long in the tooth, they are wide in the pants. Just saying but no need to picture this.
Tom 8)
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 12, 2015, 08:33:05 AM
Quote from: Janbouli on October 11, 2015, 07:29:24 PM
I'm glad the curved right turnout , turned out right ;D ;D ;D
Jan,
Yes, the curved right turnout did turnout right! Finally, I took a turn (https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CCAQyCkwAGoVChMIo9X2lq--yAIVjNYeCh2KfgEn&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DW4ga_M5Zdn4&usg=AFQjCNGjtdeD_m7TfhH98QB7-42-pY986g&sig2=y_43qonNWdM5DYqs0MD1qQ) and it turned out right! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
(click the underlined "turn")
Quote from: Donato on October 12, 2015, 10:11:35 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 12, 2015, 08:33:05 AM
Quote from: Janbouli on October 11, 2015, 07:29:24 PM
I'm glad the curved right turnout , turned out right ;D ;D ;D
Jan,
Yes, the curved right turnout did turnout right! Finally, I took a turn (https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CCAQyCkwAGoVChMIo9X2lq--yAIVjNYeCh2KfgEn&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DW4ga_M5Zdn4&usg=AFQjCNGjtdeD_m7TfhH98QB7-42-pY986g&sig2=y_43qonNWdM5DYqs0MD1qQ) and it turned out right! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
(click the underlined "turn")
Donato,
That was and still is a good song. Haven't heard it in the past 20 years. Thanks!
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 12, 2015, 09:16:54 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 12, 2015, 08:52:24 AM
El prez does well again.....even if his "laurels" are getting a little long in the tooth. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Thanks, much appreciated. And, just for the record my laurels aren't long in the tooth, they are wide in the pants. Just saying but no need to picture this.
Tom 8)
Thanks for putting that image in my head yesterday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Greg,
I told you not to picture it!
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 13, 2015, 08:37:01 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 12, 2015, 09:16:54 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 12, 2015, 08:52:24 AM
El prez does well again.....even if his "laurels" are getting a little long in the tooth. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Thanks, much appreciated. And, just for the record my laurels aren't long in the tooth, they are wide in the pants. Just saying but no need to picture this.
Tom 8)
I so much rather look at curves - great recovery Tom!
Thanks for putting that image in my head yesterday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I so much rather look at curves - great recovery Tom!
Quote from: S&S RR on October 14, 2015, 08:41:09 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 13, 2015, 08:37:01 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 12, 2015, 09:16:54 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on October 12, 2015, 08:52:24 AM
El prez does well again.....even if his "laurels" are getting a little long in the tooth. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Thanks, much appreciated. And, just for the record my laurels aren't long in the tooth, they are wide in the pants. Just saying but no need to picture this.
Tom 8)
I so much rather look at curves - great recovery Tom!
Thanks for putting that image in my head yesterday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I so much rather look at curves - great recovery Tom!
John,
Me too, thanks for stopping by for a visit and look see. Thanks for the support as well.
Tom ;D
I've been really busy lately on the layout. I have so much to upload and share but it seems like it takes more and more time each thread addition. It does help keep me motivated though.
I finished wiring the 24 tortoise switch motors on the west side of the second level. I have six on the other side for the second level to install and this doesn't count the unkown number I'll be installing down the middle of the second level.
On the old layout and the lower level staging area on this layout, I used the double pole double throw toggles with bi-color (red/green) LEDs for those panels. Here is a photo of one of the four I installed for the staging level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271214181614.jpeg)
I'm switching to a different mode of turnout control for the second and third levels.
Continued in a few.
I decided to use the Digitrax DS64 Stationary Decoder. To quote Digitrax, "They are simple to hook up and configure". Obviously they have more to say but you get the idea. However, it comes ready to use with Atlas switch machine so you need to program it for the slow motion tortoise type motors. Don't bother reading the directions as they are written by some guy somewhere with a plastic pocket protector in his shirt pocket.
Watch this Utube and you are good to go. It's the best I've seen and more importantly it easy to understand.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNtIGBDCl-0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNtIGBDCl-0)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-261015164538.jpeg)
Each DS53 will control four turnouts. But, if you have a crossover the two turnout motors count as one motor. So in reality, you can run four crossovers or eight tortoise motors with one DS64. Keep in mind the two count as one so you are back to controlloing only four motors. I guess by now you are confused like me. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Continued in a few.
By using the DS64 I can throw the turnouts with the hand held controller.
To make the wiring easier for me, I'm also using an 8 pin connector. The connector fits on the bottom of the 8 pin soldering plate on the bottom of the Tortoise.
I got the 8 pin connectors from Jim's Model Trains.
WWW. Jimsmodeltrains.com
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-261015162326.jpeg)
What I like about these connectors is the fact they are quick connect/disconnect should I need to replace a turnout. The pin connectors allow me to not have to rewire/solder the Tortoise when it is in position under the layout. I simply remove the connector, replace the motor and snap the connector back on the new motor.
Also, I numbered all turnouts on the second level starting at 201 and up. All turnouts on the third level will be numbered 301 and up. On the second level I have wired five crossovers so there are actually 29 Tortoise motors wired.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-261015162303.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I have the DS64's wired directly to the Digitrax PS 2012. PS means power station. The PS 2012 provides power up to 20 amps. The one PS 2012 I have powers all of the 20 staging tracks, the second level tracks and part of the ovalix and 29 Tortoise slow motion stall motors. I've had no power issues to date. Eventually, I'll use a dedicated PS 2012 to power the turnouts on the second and third levels.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-261015162410.jpeg)
I've numbered the DS64's to correspond with the turnout number.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-261015164555.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
And here is a view of a few of the Tortoise turnouts under the second level track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-261015162427.jpeg)
See how easy it will be to replace a burned out Tortoise should the need arrive? One final note or thought if you will. I've not decided 100% on the type of signaling system I'll be using. The blue 8 pin connectors can be remove from the turnout, wired for signals and then reconnnected to the bottom of the Tortoise.
Thanks for checking in and if I've confused anyone please ask a question. I just may confuse you futher. 8) 8) 8) 8)
Impressive layout Tom. It would be great if I could visit sometime when we are on our return trip North on the AutoTrain. Jim
Quote from: jrmueller on October 27, 2015, 10:08:59 AM
Impressive layout Tom. It would be great if I could visit sometime when we are on our return trip North on the AutoTrain. Jim
Jim,
Thanks for the very kind words, much appreciated.
You are most welcome anytime, as are any forum members, to come by for a visit, see the layout and meet the SBG. I was wondering why you didn't drop by the other visits you made to Central Florida. I'll send a PM with my phone number. Just give me a few days notice.
Tom ;D ;D
All those exposed bare wires are kinda scary. :o I'll bet it's a pain to work under there on the wiring/tortoises.
Jeff
Tom
Thanks for sharing the pictures of the underside - exactly the kind of information that should be shared in a build thread. I'm enjoying the thread!
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on October 27, 2015, 10:38:08 AM
All those exposed bare wires are kinda scary. :o I'll bet it's a pain to work under there on the wiring/tortoises.
Jeff
Jeff,
Thanks for checking in. The exposed wires are no problem. Every wire is soldered to the buss wires. Notice also the wires are staggered so if they do get pushed together there is no danger of a short.
The clearance between the lower level and the second level is 10". Plenty of room for the trains to run underneath but not alot of room to do any serious work. This is why I opted for the quick 8 pin connectors for the Tortoise machines. The soldering of the wires on this level was a bit tricksie though.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on October 27, 2015, 10:49:07 AM
Tom
Thanks for sharing the pictures of the underside - exactly the kind of information that should be shared in a build thread. I'm enjoying the thread!
John,
Thanks for checking in and I'm glad you are enjoying the thread. Sometimes I wonder if it's even worth posting as you know we get very little feedback but a lot of views.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on October 27, 2015, 11:25:59 AM
Quote from: S&S RR on October 27, 2015, 10:49:07 AM
Tom
Thanks for sharing the pictures of the underside - exactly the kind of information that should be shared in a build thread. I'm enjoying the thread!
John,
Thanks for checking in and I'm glad you are enjoying the thread. Sometimes I wonder if it's even worth posting as you know we get very little feedback but a lot of views.
Tom ;D
I agree that the feedback is light but there sure are a lot of people checking in every day. It must be interesting or that would not be happening. I enjoy seeing how everyone is doing on their layout - so I keep my build thread going. It only takes a few minutes a day and we can all keep in touch between train conventions and layout visits. I sure wish there were layout threads like this when I was starting out!
John,
I agree with your comments. This build thread keeps me focused on the task at hand. When I started railroad modeling there were no computers, few if any conventions and no help.
Tom ;D
Dr. Jeff,
This isn't scary -
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-261015162427.jpeg)
This is though - the underside of one of four control panels for the lower level staging.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015114013.jpeg)
I decided to donate my oak antique display case to the ACL/SAL Historical Society along with a few other railroad related items. The display case takes up an area of 2 1/2 ft. by 6 1/2 ft. It has a bottom shelf and top glass shelves. It came from an old department store here in Orlando.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015113859.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015113859.jpeg)
I'll take a tax deduction for the items but more importantly I'll be able to get more space for trackage down the middle on the second level. However, the one big problem is that I used the display case to house many of the built structures I'll use on the layout. Now they are housed along the East wall of the second level. I'll find a home for them in a few boxes until I actually need them.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015113921.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015113921.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015113938.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015113956.jpeg)
There are some good looking buildings back there Tom. I'm sure there is some great stories to go along with them. I'm loving the updates, keep them coming.
Hi Tom:
The Structures look just great. keep up the good work.
Karl
Quote from: coors2u on October 27, 2015, 08:30:07 PM
There are some good looking buildings back there Tom. I'm sure there is some great stories to go along with them. I'm loving the updates, keep them coming.
Dustin,
Thanks very much. Unfortunately I won't be able to used a few of them. The white SRMW kit is probably one of them. It worked on the old layout but not the new one. And, I have no where to store it either. :'(
Tom ;D
Quote from: postalkarl on October 28, 2015, 07:33:58 AM
Hi Tom:
The Structures look just great. keep up the good work.
Karl
Karl,
Thank you much appreciated. I hope to get more done in the coming months.
Tom ;D
Tom,
Thanks for sharing those recent structure photos this week.
Don't see the Ed Fulasz 3 story brick tenement building or the Master Creations Fanny Schwann's built by too many people.
Nice work !!! 8)
Hello Tom,
Great solution with the curved turnout for your derail problem. And those are some fantastic looking structures .
Keep the updates coming.
Regards,Chris
Quote from: tom.boyd.125 on November 01, 2015, 06:32:18 PM
Tom,
Thanks for sharing those recent structure photos this week.
Don't see the Ed Fulasz 3 story brick tenement building or the Master Creations Fanny Schwann's built by too many people.
Nice work !!! 8)
Tom,
Thank you for the kind words of encouragement, much appreciated. The EF 3 story structure was built long prior to Jimmy D. taking over the kits from Ed. It was also my first hydrocal kit if I remember correctly. It has been in the display case for at least 10+ years. Fanny Schwann's was built about that time also.
The 3 story tenements, I plan to build two others, will make a great "across the tracks" slum area.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051115174505.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051115174447.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051115174521.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051115174543.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051115174602.jpeg)
Quote from: Twist67 on November 03, 2015, 05:46:10 AM
Hello Tom,
Great solution with the curved turnout for your derail problem. And those are some fantastic looking structures .
Keep the updates coming.
Regards,Chris
Chris,
Appreciate you stopping by for a look or two. Thanks for the kind words as well. The derail issue was a severely needed fix for smooth running of the trains.
Tom ;D
My ears certainly perked up regarding the SRMW mill. I think I have a spot for it on my NEW layout!
Beautiful buildings. The tenement is great.
John
Tom , I just love that 3 story tenement , I have some wood ones for my layout but sure wish these were also available in N-scale . Great brick work and weathering on the wood work.
I'm really impressed with the work you have done on this kit.
Quote from: Cuse on November 05, 2015, 06:00:05 PM
My ears certainly perked up regarding the SRMW mill. I think I have a spot for it on my NEW layout!
Beautiful buildings. The tenement is great.
John
John,
We can certainly discuss a deal. The SRMW kit will definitely not fit on the new layout.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on November 05, 2015, 06:02:41 PM
Tom , I just love that 3 story tenement , I have some wood ones for my layout but sure wish these were also available in N-scale . Great brick work and weathering on the wood work.
Jan,
Thank you for the very kind words. It was a fun build and I need to get with Jimmy D. and get two more. There are some "N" scale structures that would be great in HO and visa versa as we all agree.
Tom ;D
Quote from: martin.ojaste on November 05, 2015, 11:37:57 PM
I'm really impressed with the work you have done on this kit.
Marty,
Thank you, very much appreciated. The trim was a mix of Floquil Caboose Red and Floquil B&O Enchantment Blue and a drop or two of Reefer White. Some where in time I've lost the mixture. :'(
Tom ;D
I like the EF #3 tenement too, but it's only in my unbuilt kit pile.
Beautiful job on the 3 story tenement. I love the colors you chose.
Quote from: jbvb on November 07, 2015, 08:55:41 PM
I like the EF #3 tenement too, but it's only in my unbuilt kit pile.
James,
Thanks, very much appreciated. I need to get with Jimmy D. and get two more. They will make a great row of lower rent district apts.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Raymo on November 08, 2015, 09:31:28 AM
Beautiful job on the 3 story tenement. I love the colors you chose.
Dan,
Much appreciated, thanks. I'll never be able to remake the trim colors and I guess that may be a good thing so I won't repeat it on the other two I'll build.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on November 06, 2015, 07:37:05 AM
Quote from: Cuse on November 05, 2015, 06:00:05 PM
My ears certainly perked up regarding the SRMW mill. I think I have a spot for it on my NEW layout!
Beautiful buildings. The tenement is great.
John
John,
We can certainly discuss a deal. The SRMW kit will definitely not fit on the new layout.
Tom ;D
Cuse's ears certainly did perk up. He is now the owner of the white SRMW kit. I forgot the name of it but he is a happy modeler.
Ownership was transferred Friday afternoon.
Tom ;D
Okay, folks I've been on the move. The huge display case if now history from the A&S RR. It now resides at local chaper of the the ACL/SAL historical society. I smell a huge tax deduction as well. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Here is an overall look at the layout room with the display case gone.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115144525.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115144525.jpeg)
In case anyone is wondering the distance/length in the room is just 42 ft. I wish it were as wide but it is only 11'4" wide. I have no complaints.
Continued in a few.
I do have plans for the new area. I need to move a couple of things first. I plan to move the computer desk and small man cave ice box to the front area of the crew lounge.
Sorry for the bleed out in the next photo of my desk and black Diet Pepsi depository. Notice my BEST magnet?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115144549.jpeg)
Here is the new location of the desk. The blue tape is where the desk will go and is the length and width of the desk. I've arranged the book case so the TV/DVD is next to the desk area and the desk fits right under one of my brass loco display cases.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115144609.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115144626.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I plan to extend the center portion of the layout down several more feet to include a 24" loop at the end to serve as a switching reverse. No passenger trains will be on this section of track and certainly not on the reverse loop.
The CAD drawing shown below is courtesy of SBG Greg DeMayo. I've marked in red where the desk, ice box and benchwork are currently located.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115144450.jpeg)
You can see when I open this space I'll have much more room.
I've marked in blue on the next drawing how the benchwork will be changed to accommodate the new area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115144509.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Now that the layout benchwork will be changed in this area, I wasted no time in changing the track. I had intentions of using the area shown below for a couple of structures, mainly George Sellios' Hiram Brother's Wholesale Meats. However, now I'll move that structure to a new location of the layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210415162522.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015114113.jpeg)
Here is a shot of the mainline and turnout intended to be used for Hiram Brother's.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015114053.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I removed that section of track and the turnout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015114133.jpeg)
I then used a dull wood chisel to remove the glued cork roadbed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015114152.jpeg)
Time for a Diet Pepsi break! Back in a few.
Once all the cork roadbed was removed, I used some medium grit sandpaper to remove the rough spots of glue. I wanted a smooth surface for the new cork.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015114221.jpeg)
New sections of cork were cut and glued in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015114241.jpeg)
The new section of track was fit into place, secured with small track pins and the feeders were resoldered.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015114338.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271015114405.jpeg)
Finished, easy peasy. No trickies involved here. I've made another track redo and I'll discuss that one tomorrow. Thanks to all that are following along. I try to give ya'll plenty of pictures as we all love pictures.
Tom ;D
Tom,
thanks for the picture update. I got a glimpse of the third level. WOW, progress is being made. Good to talk with you the other day. Looks like you are having rain and we are having sun and 80 degrees. Lovely is all I can say. I like your new center island. Your layout is going to feel like wall to wall layout. Awesome. Looking forward to more pics.
Frank / Erieman
Wow. The absence of the display case certainly opens up a lot of breathing room.
John
Tom .... looking good ..... (ya wanna come up to S.I. and do MINE????) 8)
Geez Tom! Slow down. At the very least, save a spot for Sokol's. You'll have the layout finished before I have Sokol's finished. ;D
Looking good my friend. Looking very good! :D
Quote from: Erieman on November 08, 2015, 05:17:20 PM
Tom,
thanks for the picture update. I got a glimpse of the third level. WOW, progress is being made. Good to talk with you the other day. Looks like you are having rain and we are having sun and 80 degrees. Lovely is all I can say. I like your new center island. Your layout is going to feel like wall to wall layout. Awesome. Looking forward to more pics.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thank you for the encouragement. Yes, the third level does have a test section and there will be more on that later in the thread. I'm making very good progress now that I'm not medically bound up. I mentioned on the morning thread that yesterday was the first day since June I was actually able to cut the grass and work in the yard, I loved it.
We've had record highs here in Central Fl. the past week or two. I need a little cold weather to really get me going on the layout.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on November 08, 2015, 07:21:55 PM
Wow. The absence of the display case certainly opens up a lot of breathing room.
John
John,
Yes, it did open it up quite a bit but have no fear. It will also be filled with some sort of bench work.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on November 08, 2015, 10:53:12 PM
Tom .... looking good ..... (ya wanna come up to S.I. and do MINE? ??? ) 8)
Donato,
Thanks for the kind words, much appreciated. Yes, I'll come on up and do yours as soon as I finish mine. Should only be a few years. 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on November 09, 2015, 07:40:26 AM
Geez Tom! Slow down. At the very least, save a spot for Sokol's. You'll have the layout finished before I have Sokol's finished. ;D
Looking good my friend. Looking very good! :D
Bob,
Thank you for the kind words, much appreciated Butty! I took it slow all summer so now I can't let any grass grow under my feet. There are plenty of locations for Sokol's. I do hope to have the second level finished and scenicked (sp) by May of 2017.
Tom ;D
Another area of the current track plan I changed is in and on the south reverse loop. For some unknown reason I installed two turnouts with a short section of 3.5 ft. of track between the two. All that did was to shorten the one leg of the reverse loop. Here is a photo of that area. For those of you living in the Central Fl. area, I'm referring to the track in the middle. ;D ;D ;D ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115155051.jpeg)
You can see how short the section is between the turnouts. It was a waste of two turnouts, two Tortoise motors and wiring time.
This is just another angle of the area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115155124.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115155109.jpeg)
The turnout in the above photo was removed along with the short section of track. A new section of track was installed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115155142.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The lower section of track was removed along with the middle turnout. A new section of track was added. I'll leave the cork roadbed and add ties without rail in the old section.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115155142.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115155142.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115155230.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115155230.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Here is another unsightly area of track work I'm changing. This has worked fine and I've had no derailments here. After several months of looking at this section, I've decided it needs to be a bit smoother looking.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115155159.jpeg)
I used a lefthand turnout here. The above photo is looking South. The next photo is looking North.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115155253.jpeg)
A righthand turnout is more appropriate and will look much smoother.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115155309.jpeg)
More on this change in a few days.
I worked on the above area for several hours today photos later in the week.
Tom ;D
Tom,
Great looking track. When I first looked at the change above, I thought you were going to install a 3 way switch and then once I put my glasses on I saw that you had a right hand switch laying on top of the left hand. Then I said to myself - A three way would look marvelous there. Just my humble opinion.
Frank / Erieman
Looking very nice, Tom.
I must admit - I looked at your picture and thought 'there's a track missing there' and then realised it was an overlay! Very nice work!
Cheers, Mark.
Quote from: Erieman on November 10, 2015, 10:35:44 PM
Tom,
Great looking track. When I first looked at the change above, I thought you were going to install a 3 way switch and then once I put my glasses on I saw that you had a right hand switch laying on top of the left hand. Then I said to myself - A three way would look marvelous there. Just my humble opinion.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for the kind words on the track. I did consider the 3 way switch but didn't think the location was the best. I didn't like the lefthand turnout as it took the track to close to the edge of the bench work. Besides that, the area under the turnout has two 1X4 braces and not enough room for the two Tortroise motors required. I'll have photo of this new area on Friday.
Tom ;D
Quote from: mark dalrymple on November 10, 2015, 11:31:11 PM
Looking very nice, Tom.
I must admit - I looked at your picture and thought 'there's a track missing there' and then realised it was an overlay! Very nice work!
Cheers, Mark.
Mark,
I appreciate your kind remarks. The picture is a bit confusing when I look at it now. I'm running trains in this area and will have photos up probably Friday evening.
Tom ;D
You can see that I just moved the flex track out of the way.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-101115154700.jpeg)
I then removed old cork roadbed and the rest of the track from the area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-101115154643.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I glued new cork roadbed for the new track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-101115154715.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-101115154729.jpeg)
I removed the left hand turnout and replaced it with a right hand turnout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-101115154818.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Here is the new mainline. You can see the black line in the middle, this was the old mainline angle.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-101115154832.jpeg)
Here is another view of the new mainline - looking South.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131115105102.jpeg)
New mainline looking North.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131115105120.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I also finished the tracks in the small lubritorium.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131115105023.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131115105047.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
And now, here is the before photo.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081115155159.jpeg)
And the after photo of the new mainline.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131115105120.jpeg)
Much smoother and better mainline trackage.
Looking good Tom..... 8)
Tom, those curves are kinda sensuous. Or am I sick?
Looks much better, Tom. I think you'd be one of those people using the Fast Tracks make them as you need them turnouts that would make impeccably beautiful track. It takes time, but it's not like you're on a deadline. July 2017 is AGES away. ;D
Jeff
Quote from: GPdemayo on November 14, 2015, 09:02:52 AM
Looking good Tom..... 8)
Greg,
Thanks, much appreciated, I think? Oh, you mean the track change! Thanks, that's much appreciated as well. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Quote from: martin.ojaste on November 14, 2015, 09:24:17 AM
Tom, those curves are kinda sensuous. Or am I sick?
Martin,
Thank you and no you are not sick. I was thinking the same thing! :P 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on November 14, 2015, 09:31:06 AM
Looks much better, Tom. I think you'd be one of those people using the Fast Tracks make them as you need them turnouts that would make impeccably beautiful track. It takes time, but it's not like you're on a deadline. July 2017 is AGES away. ;D
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
I appreciate your comment, thank you. Yes, I did actually consider using Fast Tracks turnouts. I'm still thinking about them as I have several of the FT jigs. However, with the new TCS WOW sound decoders, I can safely use the Walthers code 83 turnouts.
Fast Tracks turnouts may certainly used on the third level. I know of two or three that I'll need to make as nobody else makes what I'll be needing.
My goal now is to get the second level finished and the third level bracketing finished for July 2017. Like you said so very far away. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Over the past few days I've been doing little things that take time but are necessary. Yesterday I drilled holes and inserted the wires for the small lubritorium.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115141949.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142009.jpeg)
Since this area will also be used for small diesel storage, I needed to have the four tracks wired and be on on/off toggles. This way I can turn off the tracks and thus the diesel noise. Several diesels at idle are quit noisy. Fast forward and the toggles are installed and wired. I still need to paint the fascia.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142028.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142043.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
You may have noticed in earlier photos the light blue paper under the track and turnouts. I used the paper to shim the track where only a minuscule of adjustment is needed.
For the turnouts, the paper is used for an entirely different reason. When I drilled the holes in the plywood for the Tortoise turnout linkage, I made them large enough so I had room for adjustments. After the turnouts were installed you could see the hole.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142103.jpeg)
When the track is ballasted, the hole will be more obvious in the area of the throw bar. I used the light blue paper to fill in these areas. The paper slips under the track and will be secured with the ballast glue. The paper is so thin it doesn't affect the height of the turnouts.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142127.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Frank Baker, Erieman, mentioned in an earlier post he saw the start of a third level. Or maybe he was the only one brave enough to mention it. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Yes, the third level is started but only in a testing stage at this time. I'll need to make a major change but I'll get into that at a later time.
Many of you may remember my Babe and I visited Cliff Powers and his fantastic Magnolia Route layout in June of 2014. Upon my return from Cliff's, I did a photo thread of the visit.
http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=484.0 (http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=484.0)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020614153507.jpeg)
I give all the credit to Cliff for the knowledge of how I'm doing the third level. In fact I told ya'll last year when I removed my old layout, I was going to plagiarize as much of his ideas as possible. I even told Cliff the same thing. Well, sixteen months later here I am still doing just that. 8) 8)
Here is a look of how he did the third level using brackets on the wall. The brackets are in the upper portion of the photo below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130714161843.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The brackets are made by Closetmaid and sold in the big box stores. I bought mine from Lowes. You can get them on line from other suppliers at about half the cost which I'll do when I get more of them.
I used tapcon screws to secure the brackets to the wall. The support brace is 20" long.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142145.jpeg)
As you can see the brackets are adjustable on the wall bracket bar. You can see I've made several pencil marks on the wall in my determination of where I need the 20" support brace.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142205.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I adjusted the brackets until I had an 18" height above the second level portion of the layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142220.jpeg)
At my height of 5'10" and standing back from the benchwork, this is what I can see from my eye level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142237.jpeg)
Depending on the height of the SBG members and/or visitors, the ability to see more or less of the wall will be different. The taller one is the less he or she will see and if shorter, the more of the back wall will be visible.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142257.jpeg)
Here is how the third level looks with a few brackets and 1X3's in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142313.jpeg)
The benchwork will go on top of the 1X3's and secured with screws.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115153400.jpeg)
It's fun to watch your vision of the late days of the ACL unfold.
Quote from: jbvb on November 21, 2015, 11:40:20 AM
It's fun to watch your vision of the late days of the ACL unfold.
James,
Thanks, much appreciated. I've really been enjoying the work on the second level and the start on the third. I'm happy you are following along.
Tom ;D
I've started the work to finish the track on the ovalix. Will post a photo update later in the week. ;D
Tom ;D
Now that the second level is finished as far as the track and bench work, I needed to finish the Ovalix so it meets the third level. I added the remaining Ovalix roadbed supports.
This last section will give me the 10 tenth loop from the storage level to the top of the Ovalix and the third level. Each rotation on the Ovalix is 26 ft. in length giving me a 260 ft. run on the Ovalix alone.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031215144154.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031215144212.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I forgot to add the roadbed splice to the last roadbed section. I glued and clamped the splice and had to wait for 24 hours to add the last extention of the roadbed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031215144227.jpeg)
While waiting for the splice to dry I finished laying the track up to the Quick Grips.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031215144300.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Once the splice was dry, I secured the last section of the Ovalix roadbed to the white supports.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031215144243.jpeg)
I then moved back to the third level wall supports.
Here's a photo from a few posts back showing the wall brackets.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142205.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I mentioned in a few posts back I had a major issue with how I hung the wall brackets. The height between the second and third level was 18 inches. This gave me a very comfortable look for the second level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151115142220.jpeg)
The major issue with the wall brackets was the fact I couldn't make the correct adjustment at the 18 inch level to match the top level coming off the Ovalix.
I had to remove all the wall brackets from the wall and re-drill the holes to fit the height I needed. The top level of the Ovalix was only 19 3/4" above the second level. If I took the Ovalix up another loop, to 11 loops, the third level would then be to high. One revolution of the Ovalix raises the track 3 inches.
I know some are now as confused as me so I'll just say I made an adjustment to the wall brackets. The distance between the second and third level is now 16 3/4 inches. Actually, the loss of the 1 1/2 inch isn't that drastic when viewing the second level and I'm used to it now.The next photo shows the old wall mounted brackets.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031215144339.jpeg)
In the next photo you can see that the wall brackets have been moved up 3" and the bracket on the wall post/bracket has been set in the lowest portion possible.
Continued tomorrow.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031215144356.jpeg)
Last Saturday I had the Judge hold the 1X3 while I leveled it. He then clamped the 1X3 in place. The 1X3 represents the top of the wall bracket in the lower position. Here is another reference photo. The 1X3 sits on top of this bracket.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031215144419.jpeg)
Here the Judge is checking to make sure I got the level, well, level!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031215144515.jpeg)
Now add the other 1X3 and the 3/8" plywood and it is now level with the Ovalix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031215144459.jpeg)
Now it's just a matter of mounting the 1X4's to the wall around the Ovalix and I can then start the bracing for the loop and reverse loop around the outside of the Ovalix. Once that task is accomplished, I'll be able to finish the third level around the entire room. I'm getting anxious.
I can't believe you let Bill operate the level..... :o :o :o ::) ::) ::)
Quote from: GPdemayo on December 05, 2015, 08:24:10 AM
I can't believe you let Bill operate the level..... :o :o :o ::) ::) ::)
Why? Bill's on the level. ::)
Quote from: GPdemayo on December 05, 2015, 08:24:10 AM
I can't believe you let Bill operate the level..... :o :o :o ::) ::) ::)
Level yes, heavy equipment, maybe not so! After all, he only had to look and hold. Nothing to turn on and run! 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on December 05, 2015, 08:50:02 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on December 05, 2015, 08:24:10 AM
I can't believe you let Bill operate the level..... :o :o :o ::) ::) ::)
Why? Bill's on the level. ::)
Well, he was on the level last Saturday anyway! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Tom
It's great to see that you put the Judge to work. Looks like you guys are having fun.
Quote from: ACL1504 on December 05, 2015, 06:25:49 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on December 05, 2015, 08:24:10 AM
I can't believe you let Bill operate the level..... :o :o :o ::) ::) ::)
Level yes, heavy equipment, maybe not so! After all, he only had to look and hold. Nothing to turn on and run! 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D ;D
You do have a point! ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on December 05, 2015, 09:46:01 PM
Tom
It's great to see that you put the Judge to work. Looks like you guys are having fun.
John,
Thanks for stopping by. I let the Judge do a few things and we are certainly having fun!
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on December 06, 2015, 09:19:00 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on December 05, 2015, 06:25:49 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on December 05, 2015, 08:24:10 AM
I can't believe you let Bill operate the level..... :o :o :o ::) ::) ::)
Level yes, heavy equipment, maybe not so! After all, he only had to look and hold. Nothing to turn on and run! 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D ;D
You do have a point! ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
I do indeed. However, I must admit the Judge has become a Master at the TCS WOW sound stuff.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on December 06, 2015, 10:47:31 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on December 06, 2015, 09:19:00 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on December 05, 2015, 06:25:49 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on December 05, 2015, 08:24:10 AM
I can't believe you let Bill operate the level..... :o :o :o ::) ::) ::)
Level yes, heavy equipment, maybe not so! After all, he only had to look and hold. Nothing to turn on and run! 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D ;D
You do have a point! ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
I do indeed. However, I must admit the Judge has become a Master at the TCS WOW sound stuff.
Tom ;D
Tom,
how about a short video on the WOW sound with the judge? Inquirying minds want to hear this.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Nice speaking with you this morning. I'll do the video but don't know how to upload it to the forum.
Tom ;D
About the only thing I got done this day was to get my Atlantic Coast Line Tickets sign up. The sign is authentic and has gold and black paint back painted on the glass.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041215174632.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041215174632.jpeg)
I was going through some CD's and trying to consolidate many of the pictures onto one disc. I came across these of my Fallen Flag ACL layout. The area shown below was called Three Pine Junction.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061215163737.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061215163809.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061215163821.jpeg)
This is the spur track the helper got coal for the run up the 1.7 degree grade under the mountain.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061215163903.jpeg)
Here's a bird's eye view of the area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061215163853.jpeg)
Elevated highway, water tank and yard office.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061215163914.jpeg)
Here the MTH Clinchfield Challenger just filled the tender with water and is leaving the roundhouse area and passing under the highway.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061215163834.jpeg)
Mainline and small diesel lubritorium.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061215163929.jpeg)
The photo's bring back memories of our first visit to the ACL. It was hard to believe you started over soon after that visit. Now that we see what is coming in the future, the new layout will, be outstanding!!
Bill
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on December 06, 2015, 06:23:51 PM
The photo's bring back memories of our first visit to the ACL. It was hard to believe you started over soon after that visit. Now that we see what is coming in the future, the new layout will, be outstanding!!
Bill
Bill,
Finding the pictures and posting them brought back memories for me as well. It was a nice layout but just didn't work for me as far as adding many more structures. The one will be much better for sure.
Thanks for following along with the adventure.
Tom ;D
I am pretty sure Bill is on the level............after all, he is THE JUDGE.
Quote from: jimmillho on December 10, 2015, 11:05:19 PM
I am pretty sure Bill is on the level............after all, he is THE JUDGE.
Jim,
Thanks for checking in and yes, we know the Judge is on the level. And, he is one of the good guys as well.
Jimmillho, welcome to the forum.
Tom ;D
I have many new updates but only have time to show this one for now.
The Judge and I started to paint the rails on the second level track this morning. Yesterday I surveyed my Floquil paint stash for Rail Brown. I found one bottle of Floquil Rail Brown but realized I'd certainly need more than one bottle.
I then made a visit to my secret Floquil paint stash and found several more bottles of the Floquil Rail Brown.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151215180038.jpeg)
In the photo above, the bottle on the left is the original Floquil Rail Brown. Notice the bottle is taller than the other two.
The bottle in the middle is the second run of Rail Brown and the one on the right is the first run of Floquil Rail Brown after Floquil paints were purchased by Testors.
In the photo below you can see the paints are all different colors. The Rail Brown in the middle is more green than brown. The one on the left is more Rust than Rail Brown.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151215180053.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
After being discouraged by the difference in the colors, I went to my Top Secret Floquil Paint vault and found four more bottles of Floquil Rail Brown.
I've added two of the bottles to the other three for your viewing. These are a second run of the Testors Floquil Rail Brown.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151215180110.jpeg)
Yep, you guys are smart and quessed correctly, I now have not three, but four different colors of Floquil Rail Brown.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151215180130.jpeg)
What is so difficult about keeping the color formula the same for all runs of paint?
C'MON MAN!
Quote from: ACL1504 on December 15, 2015, 06:16:58 PM
After being discouraged by the difference in the colors, I went to my Top Secret Floquil Paint vault and found four more bottles of Floquil Rail Brown.
I've added two of the bottles to the other three for your viewing. These are a second run of the Testors Floquil Rail Brown.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151215180110.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151215180110.jpeg)
Yep, you guys are smart and quessed correctly, I now have not three, but four different colors of Floquil Rail Brown.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151215180130.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151215180130.jpeg)
What is so difficult about keeping the color formula the same for all runs of paint?
C'MON MAN!
Progress, mon ami. Progress.
The last two are ROOF brown. I think the one on the left is closest to the "real" rail brown. The green one is for moldy rails in the humid bayou. ;D
Jeff
Tom
For what it's worth - I had the same problem and ended up throwing the last 3 bottles of floquil rail brown in the trash. Actually had to repaint half of the yard because the color was off. The judge will understand that I blamed Wayne Olson for grabbing the wrong paint before I realized how bad the color match was between bottles.
Here is what I'm using now - I have probably gone through a dozen bottles so far with no color change. Just a word of warning it doesn't cover as fast - may take two coats
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/18-151215193410.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/18-151215193410.jpeg)
Would mixing all the bottles together into one big batch help?
Quote from: Donato on December 15, 2015, 10:53:16 PM
Would mixing all the bottles together into one big batch help?
Can you safely intermix old Floquil and new Floquil together?
Also, the Badger/MicroMark battery operated paint stirrer is one of the great cheap painting/finishing tools!
dave
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on December 15, 2015, 06:43:20 PM
The last two are ROOF brown. I think the one on the left is closest to the "real" rail brown. The green one is for moldy rails in the humid bayou. ;D
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
The two on the right are very close to roof brown; however, the Floquil roof Brown is just a little bit darker. I do believe the original rail brown was more of a rust color and the humid bayou color will be used somewhere else on the layout. 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on December 15, 2015, 07:40:39 PM
Tom
For what it's worth - I had the same problem and ended up throwing the last 3 bottles of floquil rail brown in the trash. Actually had to repaint half of the yard because the color was off. The judge will understand that I blamed Wayne Olson for grabbing the wrong paint before I realized how bad the color match was between bottles.
Here is what I'm using now - I have probably gone through a dozen bottles so far with no color change. Just a word of warning it doesn't cover as fast - may take two coats
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/18-151215193410.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/18-151215193410.jpeg)
John,
Hey, the next time you decide to "trash" any more Floquil paint check with me first. I'll gladly be your "trash" receptacle for Floquil.
As far as using the Microlux paint, it is a good alternative but I don't have the time to apply two coats.
Tom ;D
Quote from: martin.ojaste on December 15, 2015, 10:40:34 PM
Amazing, were each of the rail bottles mixed up extremely well? I have seen settling of the pigments.
Martin,
Yes, all the paints were extremely well mixed prior to the photos being taken. The green color actually got lighter after the vigorous shaking. :'(
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on December 15, 2015, 10:53:16 PM
Would mixing all the bottles together into one big batch help?
Donato,
Mixing all the bottles can certainly be done. I have an update and will discuss it in my nest A&S post.
Tom ;D
Quote from: deemery on December 16, 2015, 02:40:33 PM
Quote from: Donato on December 15, 2015, 10:53:16 PM
Would mixing all the bottles together into one big batch help?
Can you safely intermix old Floquil and new Floquil together?
Also, the Badger/MicroMark battery operated paint stirrer is one of the great cheap painting/finishing tools!
dave
Dave,
Yes, old and new Floquil can be mixed as I've done it in the past.
The MicroMark battery powered mixer is a very handy tool.
Tom ;D
Floquil Rail Brown update:
In my first post on the four different Rail Brown colors, I've found four additional bottles of the color shown in the middle of the photo. I've posted it here for your convenience.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-151215180130.jpeg)
Since I had an abundance of this color, I used it on the rails.
Two of the newly discovered bottles were unused and the other two were partially used. I added a little thinner to both the used paints, mixed thoroughly and combined the paints into a slightly larger bottle. This will answer the questions of combining Floquil new and old paints.
The paints were brushed onto the rail and covered in one coat.
Now to find the Flouil Railroad Tie Brown paint. What do you think the possibility is I'll have the same issue with that color? :'(
Tom ;D
about 25.9854 percent.
Jim
What I meant was on my screen at least, the two on the right are labeled Roof Brown. In three languages. :D
Jeff
Quote from: jimmillho on December 17, 2015, 07:37:50 PM
about 25.9854 percent.
Jim
Jim,
You are probably correct, about 25.9 %.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on December 17, 2015, 09:52:21 PM
What I meant was on my screen at least, the two on the right are labeled Roof Brown. In three languages. :D
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
OMG, what a dummy I am. Just goes to show if you need glasses to read, WEAR THEM! And, that's in any language.
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
At least the Dr. can read the small print in all three languages.
Tom ;D
I keep thinking I'll post more of the 50+ new photos I have of the layout progress but just haven't had the time during the Holidays.
The updates are on the schedule, trust me, I'm a professional! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Oh, HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!
Happy New Year to El Prez & The Babe......... ;D 8) ;)
Happy New Year, Tom!
Quote from: jbvb on January 01, 2016, 09:47:36 AM
Happy New Year, Tom!
James,
Happy New Year to you as well. Don't forget to come by on your way down.
Tom ;D
Over the past several weeks I was able to get more work done to complete the top of the Ovalix.
I screwed the 2x2 blocks to the 1X4's prior to tapconing them to the wall. This is the North wall.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050116182223.jpeg)
Then they were tapconed to the wall.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050116182241.jpeg)
In the photo below you are looking at the west wall of the Ovalix. You can see there are nine loops on the Ovalix. The first loop trackage goes behind the Ovalix and then begins the upward climb of 1% grade with each loop. One loop is 26 feet. The train has to travel 260 feet to get to the top.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050116182257.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The South wall 1X4 is ready to be placed on the wall.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050116182317.jpeg)
I made sure the top level of the Ovalix was level. Being on the level is a good thing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050116182347.jpeg)
The Judge and I took a little time out to run the C&O passenger train up the Ovalix. It took almost 15 minutes at 30 mph.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050116182406.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I next glued and screwed the 2X2 blocks to outside of the Ovalix and made sure they were all level with the blocks on the 1X4's. Remember, being on the level is a good thing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050116182425.jpeg)
The support 1X3 was also added at this time.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050116182444.jpeg)
More this weekend time permitting and I don't melt Erieman's brass loco.
WOW Tom, the ovalix is really looking awesome. Did you build the whole thing, and then lay track? or did you lay the track as you built each layer? You got to be the Master bench work builder.
tremendous work ether way.
Sam
Tom, I am still looking for a word to describe your work, it looks so perfect.
8)
Quote from: ak-milw on January 05, 2016, 07:40:57 PM
Tom, I am still looking for a word to describe your work, it looks so perfect.
8)
I'm sure the judge has a word for it!
Tom
The Ovalix looks great! That was a lot of work.
4.3 scale miles of Ovalix? Wow! Are you going to allow 60 MPH on it, or only 30 MPH?
Wow, You must have used all the flex track in the USA.
Impressive, Tom!
Cheers, Mark.
Quote from: ollevon on January 05, 2016, 07:19:20 PM
WOW Tom, the ovalix is really looking awesome. Did you build the whole thing, and then lay track? or did you lay the track as you built each layer? You got to be the Master bench work builder.
tremendous work ether way.
Sam
Sam,
Thank you, very much appreciated. I built the Ovalix and laid the track as I went on each level. It was relatively easy to build but very time consuming. And, I'd like to add that had not Greg DeMayo done the CAD drawing for me there is no telling what it may look like.
Again, thanks very much for the comment and for stopping by.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ak-milw on January 05, 2016, 07:40:57 PM
Tom, I am still looking for a word to describe your work, it looks so perfect.
8)
Andy,
Thank you for the very kind words, much appreciated. It was a fun job working on the Ovalix and I'm very happy to be nearing the end as well.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on January 05, 2016, 07:45:54 PM
Quote from: ak-milw on January 05, 2016, 07:40:57 PM
Tom, I am still looking for a word to describe your work, it looks so perfect.
8)
I'm sure the judge has a word for it!
John,
Thanks for stopping by. The Judge's comment was, "Wow, this is just wonderful, people will be talkng about the Ovalix". No new words from the Judge.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on January 05, 2016, 07:48:47 PM
Tom
The Ovalix looks great! That was a lot of work.
John,
Thanks for the kind works and for stopping by, much appreciated. Yes, it was a lot of work but well worth it.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jbvb on January 06, 2016, 01:40:18 PM
4.3 scale miles of Ovalix? Wow! Are you going to allow 60 MPH on it, or only 30 MPH?
James,
The trip on the Ovalix takes a few minutes depending on the speed. Nothing over 30 on the controller. Of course, 30 on the controller is a differett speed depending on the loco and the number of cars and the type of cars. For instance, a Pacific is limited to 6 heavyweights unless we are double heading, then we can do with 9-10 heavyweights.
We've had two Proto 2000 GP units pull a 38 freight car consist up the Ovalix with no problem.
The possibilities are endless.
Tom ;D
Quote from: martin.ojaste on January 06, 2016, 02:03:59 PM
Wow, You must have used all the flex track in the USA.
Martin,
Thanks for checking in. Not quite all the track, just about 800 ft. to this point. All the ME code 83 track on the staging, second and Ovalix all came from the last layout. It's a good thing I never got around to doing a lot of ballast on the old layout.
Tom ;D
Quote from: mark dalrymple on January 06, 2016, 03:03:25 PM
Impressive, Tom!
Cheers, Mark.
Mark,
Thank you, very much appreciated. Thanks for checking the thread and following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 06, 2016, 09:33:14 PM
Quote from: ollevon on January 05, 2016, 07:19:20 PM
WOW Tom, the ovalix is really looking awesome. Did you build the whole thing, and then lay track? or did you lay the track as you built each layer? You got to be the Master bench work builder.
tremendous work ether way.
Sam
Sam,
Thank you, very much appreciated. I built the Ovalix and laid the track as I went on each level. It was relatively easy to build but very time consuming. And, I'd like to add that had not Greg DeMayo done the CAD drawing for me there is no telling what it may look like.
Again, thanks very much for the comment and for stopping by.
Tom ;D
Oh stop it.....you're making me blush. :-[ :-[ :-[ ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on January 07, 2016, 09:13:09 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 06, 2016, 09:33:14 PM
Quote from: ollevon on January 05, 2016, 07:19:20 PM
WOW Tom, the ovalix is really looking awesome. Did you build the whole thing, and then lay track? or did you lay the track as you built each layer? You got to be the Master bench work builder.
tremendous work ether way.
Sam
Sam,
Thank you, very much appreciated. I built the Ovalix and laid the track as I went on each level. It was relatively easy to build but very time consuming. And, I'd like to add that had not Greg DeMayo done the CAD drawing for me there is no telling what it may look like.
Again, thanks very much for the comment and for stopping by.
Tom ;D
Oh stop it.....you're making me blush. :-[ :-[ :-[ ;D
Greg,
No brag, just fact!
Tom ;D
I finished a little more on the Ovalix. I glued and screwed the cross braces for the third level decking.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090116180411.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090116180411.jpeg)
The rest of the third level cross braces look like the ones above so I'll skip those photos.
The next two photos show you how the third level bracing coming off the Ovalix joins the third level wall runners.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090116180351.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090116180351.jpeg)
The small piece of 3/8" 3 ply plywood sits on the Ovalix braces and the wall runner. The third level cross braces will be attached to the wall runners.
Continued in a few.
Here is a photo of a cross brace. I tired to use as much of the old lumber from the old layout as possible. You can see the cross brace was used in the past for other purposes.
Did I ever mention level is a good thing?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090116180435.jpeg)
Here is how the top of the outside of the Ovalix looks with the third level decking. It isn't screwed to the cross braces. I'm just giving you an idea of how it will look in a few weeks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090116180453.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090116180509.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090116180527.jpeg)
In the next few days, I'll show you what I have in mind for the area where the computer desk was located.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090116184229.jpeg)
WOW! Hope you didn't block the only exit. Looks impressive. Do you have an estimate on how long it will take for a consist to traverse the helix? Jim
Good Morning Tom,
The ovalix is looking awesome. Great idea. Nice slow grade. Trains are going to love it. Can't wait to it in operation. Keep up the great work. Remember, everyday is Saturday for us retired folks.
Frank / Erieman
Photos don't do that monster justice. It's an engineering marvel. Keep in mind it's the size of many of our small layout rooms by itself. Very interesting to see how Tom's building around it...like constructing an aircraft carrier around a nuclear reactor. ;D Definitely the nerve center of the layout.
John
No wonder I can't find any flex track at the hobby shop
I love the ovalix but I do have question now that I see it all together and notice that is only a single track. We may have discussed this before, but isn't this going to inhibit traffic between levels? Did you save room of a second track in the same spiral? Inquiring minds want to know how you intend to space trains going between the levels. Just asking. It looks like timing is going to be key in getting on and off the ovalix, but what do I know. You probably have this all thought out and my imagination is on the wane.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: jrmueller on January 10, 2016, 12:43:33 PM
WOW! Hope you didn't block the only exit. Looks impressive. Do you have an estimate on how long it will take for a consist to traverse the helix? Jim
Jim,
Thanks for checking in and for the kind words. Not to worry, I only blocked one door. I still have the main entrance on the north side. As far as the time it takes from the staging level right at the start of the 1% incline to the current "end of track" is about 17 minutes. That's at the required 30 MPH and 260 ft' of track. You certainly can go faster but then you won't be invited back! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) The trains waiting to go down will just have to wait on the green light.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on January 10, 2016, 01:05:41 PM
Good Morning Tom,
The ovalix is looking awesome. Great idea. Nice slow grade. Trains are going to love it. Can't wait to it in operation. Keep up the great work. Remember, everyday is Saturday for us retired folks.
Frank / Erieman
Afternoon Frank,
Thank you for the support and compliment, much appreciated. Yes, everyday is Saturday!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on January 10, 2016, 03:01:57 PM
Photos don't do that monster justice. It's an engineering marvel. Keep in mind it's the size of many of our small layout rooms by itself. Very interesting to see how Tom's building around it...like constructing an aircraft carrier around a nuclear reactor. ;D Definitely the nerve center of the layout.
John
John,
Thanks for checking in and posting a comment, very much appreciated. I'm very fortunate to have the space I have for the layout. The Judge calls it a piece of art. Not sure about art but it is a piece of conversation for sure.
Tom ;D
Quote from: John B on January 10, 2016, 03:41:32 PM
No wonder I can't find any flex track at the hobby shop
John,
Thanks for the comment but keep checking the hobby shop I'm sure I left some somewhere. ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Quote from: Erieman on January 10, 2016, 04:17:23 PM
I love the ovalix but I do have question now that I see it all together and notice that is only a single track. We may have discussed this before, but isn't this going to inhibit traffic between levels? Did you save room of a second track in the same spiral? Inquiring minds want to know how you intend to space trains going between the levels. Just asking. It looks like timing is going to be key in getting on and off the ovalix, but what do I know. You probably have this all thought out and my imagination is on the wane.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Nice speaking with you this afternoon, Florida time that is. We did indeed discuss single vs double track on the Ovalix. I decided to go with the one track. The trains will have to wait for the green light to enter the Ovalix to traverse between different levels. My way of slowing down Greg, he loves to highball.
Other than that I just wanted to add a little more operational moves for the railroad. Yes, I have it all figured out.
Tom ;D
I haven't forgotten my promise to load more photos of the new area but I got side tracked on doing ballast and we all know how fun and time consuming that task is. Hopefully some tonight for that.
Tom ;D
Here's a hint! Everyone should be able to figure it out.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120116160015.jpeg)
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 12, 2016, 04:01:05 PM
I haven't forgotten my promise to load more photos of the new area but I got side tracked on doing ballast and we all know how fun and time consuming that task is. Hopefully some tonight for that.
Tom ;D
Here's a hint! Everyone should be able to figure it out.
I FINALLY GOT IT!
You took the afternoon off to play bridge with The Babe and another couple! :D 8)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120116160015.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120116160015.jpeg)
Chip,
That is a classic one. You have a fantastic sense of humor and you are close. I was thinking a game of bridge with two decks. Or how about two cavities and a bridge. This is endless.
Thanks for checking in.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 13, 2016, 07:47:33 AM
Chip,
That is a classic one. You have a fantastic sense of humor and you are close. I was thinking a game of bridge with two decks. Or how about two cavities and a bridge. This is endless.
Thanks for checking in.
Tom ;D
Tom,
Truss me: with a little imagination, we could span most every subject offered here. ;) 8)
Chip,
Yes, you are correct. But hey, just one more.
Spandecks - railroad bridge span
Spandex - synthetic fiber with great elasticity
Tom ;D
Okay now, back to the build.
I'm hoping by now everyone knows what I intend to do with the area where I had the desk. I also plan on putting a roadway bridge in the same area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116172631.jpeg)
I removed the track and the plywood decking.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116172648.jpeg)
I then cut a curved section from the existing layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116172709.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I removed the track and then the decking from this area also.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116172724.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116172807.jpeg)
I then cut a new piece of plywood and used 1X4 blocks to support the new riverbed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116172833.jpeg)
The new riverbed is 4.5" above the staging level tracks and 5.5" below the second level tracks. this gives me a little area where I can have some sort of negative scenery on the second level.
Continued in a few.
In the above photo you may have noticed the insulated wiring under the new section of the layout. Two years ago I moved the wall switch from the wall by the door. The door is blocked off and the light switch couldn't be accessed behind the third level proposed scenery.
I cut a section of drywall from the wall socket and ran the wires out below the staging level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116181341.jpeg)
The wires were bundled and run under the staging level to the new wall switch area as I mentioned. The exposed wall switch was covered with a new cover plate.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116181359.jpeg)
The new wall switch area is just under the staging level bench work with easy access to the switches.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116181413.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I forgot to show these two photos of the area I removed from the second level in preparation of the new bridge.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116172746.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116172807.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I'll have to finish this posting another day. The Forum won't let me access my photo galleries. Not sure of the problem. :'(
Tom ;D
Okay, some internal server issue but I rebooted and now good to go.
I replaced the cork roadbed and then added the track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116181323.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116181323.jpeg)
I added the track from the bridge and then made the necessary adjustments to get the track on the roadbed and the bridge track level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116181259.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116181259.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Here is how it looks from the side and bird's eye view. The track is level and I've run several trains over the area with no problems.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116181501.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116181435.jpeg)
I still need to add the inner support rails and more little details.
Continued in a few.
Here is how it will hopefully look with the roadway bridge in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116185138.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116185200.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116185121.jpeg)
Thanks for following the progress.
Looks good! It'll be interesting to see with the abutments and rough scenery in place.
dave
I love the bridge Tom.
Tom, you got that done in a hurry, looks great.
8)
Tom,
That really looks like it'll be a "signature scene"...with the desk gone, I have to ask...why go with such narrow benchwork? I might have missed that post - you move pretty fast! :D
John
Quote from: Cuse on January 16, 2016, 10:04:00 AM
Tom,
That really looks like it'll be a "signature scene"...with the desk gone, I have to ask...why go with such narrow benchwork? I might have missed that post - you move pretty fast! :D
John
I think that's because the rest of us in the SBG are a bit wider than you and are going to need the extra room to maneuver. :D ;D :o
Neat Bridge :) :) :) :) :)
Jim
Tom,
Neat trestle bridge. I like the road next to the bridge as well. It reminds me of a bridge in Pittsburgh. Back many years ago, the old original bridges at the confluence of the rivers were torn down. One of the new bridges was not completed and had a barrier to prevent anyone from driving off the end. Well, that being said, some fool did just that, landing on the edge of the river upside down. He was fortunate to climb out of the car and hail a police car. Well, this event was the hottest time since sliced bread. The information was transmitted over the scanner wires and then by the disk jockey on KDKA who had a great sense of humor . He immediately put up a contest over the airwaves for a "Bridge Leaping"event the following weekend. Hundreds of people showed up to participate or to watch some idiot drive his car off the bridge. Great idea. Just thought you might want to a bit of humor on the bridge! The police were less than amused.
Frank / Erieman
I remember the Bridge to Nowhere and the Bridge Leaps.... That's now the bridge you take from the city over to the North Side baseball/football stadiums.
dave
Quote from: deemery on January 15, 2016, 07:24:02 PM
Looks good! It'll be interesting to see with the abutments and rough scenery in place.
dave
Dave,
Thanks for the kind words, much appreciated. I'll be starting the abutments and the roughed in scenery next week.
Tom ;D
Quote from: coors2u on January 15, 2016, 09:34:30 PM
I love the bridge Tom.
Dustin,
Thank you very much. It was a fun project and I hope to get the roughed in scenery started next week.
Thanks also for following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on January 16, 2016, 10:04:00 AM
Tom,
That really looks like it'll be a "signature scene"...with the desk gone, I have to ask...why go with such narrow benchwork? I might have missed that post - you move pretty fast! :D
John
John,
Hopefully this will be one of many signature scenes. I wanted more of the negative scenery and it won't be possible on the third level. The narrow space is to give me room for a reverse loop on the end of the second level.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ak-milw on January 15, 2016, 10:02:25 PM
Tom, you got that done in a hurry, looks great.
8)
Andy,
Thanks very much. I tend to get something done faster when I'm excited about it. I've had this scene in my mind for several months.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on January 16, 2016, 11:31:37 AM
Quote from: Cuse on January 16, 2016, 10:04:00 AM
Tom,
That really looks like it'll be a "signature scene"...with the desk gone, I have to ask...why go with such narrow benchwork? I might have missed that post - you move pretty fast! :D
John
I think that's because the rest of us in the SBG are a bit wider than you and are going to need the extra room to maneuver. :D ;D :o
Bob,
Hmm, you may have a point here.
Tom ;D ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on January 16, 2016, 04:09:41 PM
Neat Bridge :) :) :) :) :)
Jim
Jim,
Thanks Butty. It was an exciting project and only took a full day. 8) 8)
Tom ;D ;D
Quote from: Erieman on January 16, 2016, 05:31:17 PM
Tom,
Neat trestle bridge. I like the road next to the bridge as well. It reminds me of a bridge in Pittsburgh. Back many years ago, the old original bridges at the confluence of the rivers were torn down. One of the new bridges was not completed and had a barrier to prevent anyone from driving off the end. Well, that being said, some fool did just that, landing on the edge of the river upside down. He was fortunate to climb out of the car and hail a police car. Well, this event was the hottest time since sliced bread. The information was transmitted over the scanner wires and then by the disk jockey on KDKA who had a great sense of humor . He immediately put up a contest over the airwaves for a "Bridge Leaping"event the following weekend. Hundreds of people showed up to participate or to watch some idiot drive his car off the bridge. Great idea. Just thought you might want to a bit of humor on the bridge! The police were less than amused.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
As I mentioned before, this area has been on my to do list for several months. The roadway section was from the old layout and will need to be extended.
As one would expect, the police don't get amused over stunts like that.
I appreciate you stopping by.
Tom ;D
All the track on the second level is now painted. The rails were painted with Floquil Rail Brown and the ties were painted with Floquil Railroad Tie Brown. I follow Greoge Sellios' way of weatheing the track. When the railroad tie brown is still wet, I paint a few ties at random to simulate older weathered ties. You can see this in the photo below.
In the past I used Woodland Scenics ballast. WS ballast is some sort of crushed walnut shells or something like that.
For this layout I'm using Arizona Rock & Mineral Co. ballast. It's crush granite, rock or something better than walnuts shells. The ballast is about 50 complete finished. I'm using #138-2 ballast which is the CSX, SP and Wabash ballast. I also have several bags for the HO scale #105-2 Pennsylvania ballast. To be honest, I can't tell the difference between the two.
I pour the ballast into a small Dixie Cup, pinch one side to form a small pouring spout. I use the spout to help control the flow of the ballast to the track. Once on the track I use a 1/4" soft bristle brush to move or spread the ballast.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210116161006.jpeg)
When the ballast is in place, I use "wet" water and mist it on the ballast. My wet water is one pint of regular tap water and 5 drops of Kodak Photo-Flo 200. I then use a plastic pipette to glue the ballast in place. For the glue I use the Ready Mix Matte Medium from Scenic Express.
Continued in a few.
Here is a section on the layout with the ballast in place and glued.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210116161032.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210116161046.jpeg)
After the matte medium in dry, you'll notice little pieces of ballast on the ties as shown in the photo below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210116161106.jpeg)
I use my forefinger and lightly rub the inside of the rails and the tops of the ties to remove the pieces of ballast. The photo below shows the track after I rubbed the ties.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210116161121.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Again following George's method of track weathering, I apply rust to the outside of the rails and A&I to the inside of the rails.
For the rust, I use Floquil Rust in a 10-1 mixture of rust paint and thinner. Ten parts thinner to one part of rust.
For the insides, I use Hunterline's Weathering Mix. The mix I use is Creosote Black.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210116161154.jpeg)
The next photo is just an extra one with the ballast and without the weathering.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210116161137.jpeg)
Looking good MR. Tom. you only have a few more feet to go.
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on January 22, 2016, 07:06:56 AM
Looking good MR. Tom. you only have a few more feet to go.
Bill,
Thanks butty, much appreciated. I'll be happy to finish this project and move on to another. Appreciate you checking in and following along.
Tom ;D
Good Morning Tom,
The tie and ballast work looks great. The material from Arizona Rock is very finely crushed and "sits" well. I used this material on my neighbors layout and have been using on mine. I have tried the other materials including the crushed walnut shells, and nothing works as good as the Arizona Rock. And you did the right thing by getting all the material at the same time. As we all should know, rock colors change from batch to batch and the probability grows if you by it by the bag over a period of time. Looks Great. Keep up the great work. How about a pic of a train on the ballasted track?
Frank / Erieman
Maybe a ballast train? ;D Looks good. When you're finished there I have a few hundred feet you can ballast here.
Jeff
Tom,
The scene you are creating will certainly be a signature scene for the railroad and in a good location. You don't hear from me often, but when you do it is usually with questions and this is no different. Is the span being bridged, a flood plain, a flowing river, a dry river bed, or did I just miss the answer in the dialog?
Bob
Tom
The ballast looks good, just the right color.
Quote from: Erieman on January 22, 2016, 10:26:56 AM
Good Morning Tom,
The tie and ballast work looks great. The material from Arizona Rock is very finely crushed and "sits" well. I used this material on my neighbors layout and have been using on mine. I have tried the other materials including the crushed walnut shells, and nothing works as good as the Arizona Rock. And you did the right thing by getting all the material at the same time. As we all should know, rock colors change from batch to batch and the probability grows if you by it by the bag over a period of time. Looks Great. Keep up the great work. How about a pic of a train on the ballasted track?
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Yes, the Arizona Rock is a far superior product than the crushed shells. Looks better also. I'll get a picture up of a train on the track in the ballasted area.
As far as the color change, I believe it's possible to have color change in the ballast from the same rock.
However, I do have enough of the same ballast batch to finish the second level.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on January 22, 2016, 08:49:42 PM
Maybe a ballast train? ;D Looks good. When you're finished there I have a few hundred feet you can ballast here.
Jeff
Jeff,
Thanks for stopping by. A ballast train would look great wouldn't it. Unfortunately, I don't have one.
I would love to come out and help with your ballast but there is just one little problem. Your temp. is nothing more than sub-zero. To cold for this Florida Cracker.
Tom ;D
Quote from: RWL on January 22, 2016, 09:26:00 PM
Tom,
The scene you are creating will certainly be a signature scene for the railroad and in a good location. You don't hear from me often, but when you do it is usually with questions and this is no different. Is the span being bridged, a flood plain, a flowing river, a dry river bed, or did I just miss the answer in the dialog?
Bob
Bob,
Thanks for checking in and asking about the area. You didn't miss anything in the previous postings as I didn't really say what the area is going to be. It will be some form of a slow moving river of sorts. However, it will only be under the large bridge span and the abutments won't be in the water but on the land.
I will have one of the highway supports in the river.
Next time you are up this way give me a call. I'd like you to see what I've been up to.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on January 22, 2016, 09:55:38 PM
Tom
The ballast looks good, just the right color.
John,
Thanks, much appreciated. I'm happy with the ballast at this point in the layout build. Once the last little section of mainline is finished I'll start on the yard area.
Tom ;D
Looks great Tom...you're certainly on the move, as usual!
John
John,
Thanks for stopping by and yes, I've been busy and will continue to be for some time.
Tom ;D
I'd like to add this concerning the ballast. I was talking to Erieman, Frank Baker, and he mentioned that John Siekirk, S&S RR, was going to Arizona to visit. Frank took John to Arizona Rock and John was kind enough to pickup 15 bags of ballast for me. John fronted the money and when I met him at last years Expo I repaid John.
It was very gracious of John to do this for me and for Frank taking John to Arizona Rock. Also, it was Frank's suggestion that I buy several bags at a time in order to get the same basic color.
So, a big THANK YOU to Frank and John for their help in getting me the ballast.
The people on this forum are the BEST. I love this place.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on January 23, 2016, 06:38:47 PM
I'd like to add this concerning the ballast. I was talking to Erieman, Frank Baker, and he mentioned that John Siekirk, S&S RR, was going to Arizona to visit. Frank took John to Arizona Rock and John was kind enough to pickup 15 bags of ballast for me. John fronted the money and when I met him at last years Expo I repaid John.
It was very gracious of John to do this for me and for Frank taking John to Arizona Rock. Also, it was Frank's suggestion that I buy several bags at a time in order to get the same basic color.
So, a big THANK YOU to Frank and John for their help in getting me the ballast.
The people on this forum are the BEST. I love this place.
Tom ;D
Tom
I agree with you on the great people I have meet as a result of this forum. Your ballast along with the 5 - 5 gallon buckets of rock talus that I brought back from AZ really helped the Jeep with traction in the snow storms in the mountains on the way home and again on the way to the EXPO.
FYI - I have tried to call you a few times this week - I will try again next week. I have a question for you.
I finally got the yard tracks painted and weathered.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050216183407.jpeg)
Ballast in the yard is next. More on that later as I'm doing something different.
I started to install the guard rail on the bridge. The rail is code 83, same as the track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050216183421.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050216183438.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I needed to bring the track ballast up to the edge. I used blue painters tape to block the ballast.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050216183452.jpeg)
I then wet the ballast and applied a healthy amount of diluted matte medium to the area and let dry.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050216183512.jpeg)
And here is how it looks now.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060216180257.jpeg)
More in a few.
Remember this picture of the bridge area from the January 15 post? Well, the bridge has been in place since then and I'm not happy with it. Those of you that know me can guess what happened this afternoon. Yepper, the bridge is gone. Not all of it but I changed the span from the two on the left and one on the right to one on each side.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150116181501.jpeg)
New bridge section. I also think it looks much better and realistic.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060216180329.jpeg)
The extra bridge span took the track more up into the corner and caused me to reduce the curve from 36.5 to 34 inch radius. Diesels and small steamers liked it but not the Northern class 4-8-4 locos.
In the photo below you can see the now 34" radius curve. I even weathered it and then decided to remove it.
The black line to the left is the old 36.5" radius. Removing the one span will allow me to relay the raodbed and track back to the original radius of 36.5". Lesson learned.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060216180312.jpeg)
I should have it finished tomorrow or Monday at the latest.
Tom
This morning I removed the track and old roadbed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155543.jpeg)
I removed the old section where the bridge span met the plywood. I used this piece of plywood as a pattern for making the new section. I added 7" to the new section. The 7" is the length of the one bridge span.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155557.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155622.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I then glued some new roadbed in place on the old 36.5" radius curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155637.jpeg)
After all the new roadbed was in place and the glue dry. I used some medium sandpaper of a small block of 1X4 and leveled the top of the roadbed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155653.jpeg)
Did I ever mention that level is good?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155707.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The new roadbed is 36.5" radius and the old track is 34" radius. Much much better. I have no idea why I thought I could live with the 34" radius on this curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155721.jpeg)
Did I ever mention that level is good?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155737.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I cut the 1X4 block supports in half and added two for the road way.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155749.jpeg)
I cut some contractor's paper the width of the basin span.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155803.jpeg)
Okay, some fast forwarding here and the paper slope is in place and the bridge installed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155816.jpeg)
I think I mentioned level is good.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155836.jpeg)
Continued after a nice long Diet Pepsi break.
A good days progress is in the bank.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155915.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155927.jpeg)
Time to make it look a little better.
Continued in a few.
I screwed some Masonite/hardboard to the layout edge.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155944.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216155944.jpeg)
I used a Sharpie marker to mark the backside of the Masonite where the land fell. I used a saw to cut along the line and then screwed the Masonite back in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216160000.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216160000.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Here is how the finished panel/fascia looks. I cut a section off the bottom so I'd have access to the trains and track cleaning.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216160015.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216160031.jpeg)
I cut a section out of the other too.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216160046.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070216160059.jpeg)
A good days work. I love this hobby!
Looking nice!! It gets better day after day.
Bill
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on February 07, 2016, 05:08:31 PM
Looking nice!! It gets better day after day.
Bill
Bill,
Thank you Butty, much appreciated. I was on a roll today. I'm going to work on the road next. When ya'll are ready come on down.
Tom ;D
Tom
I am taking notes Tom, I have a big bridge project coming up fairly soon.
8)
Tom
It looks good - I think the change was a good move.
Let's hear it for the king of tear it out and do it better. 8) 8) 8)
very nice
Tom, I like the look of the banks. It is plaster clorh?
Quote from: ak-milw on February 07, 2016, 06:58:24 PM
I am taking notes Tom, I have a big bridge project coming up fairly soon.
8)
Andy,
Thank you, much appreciated. I'm glad you could get something out of this project. Thanks for stopping by.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on February 07, 2016, 07:18:15 PM
Tom
It looks good - I think the change was a good move.
John,
Much appreciated, thank you. I agree, it was a good move and certainly looks much better.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 07, 2016, 08:35:35 PM
Let's hear it for the king of tear it out and do it better. 8) 8) 8)
Hear, hear and even there. Thanks very much!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on February 07, 2016, 10:00:38 PM
very nice
Cuse,
Thank you kind sir. I appreciate you stopping by.
tom ;D
Quote from: martin.ojaste on February 07, 2016, 11:13:06 PM
Tom, I like the look of the banks. It is plaster clorh?
Martin,
Thanks for stopping by. The paper is nothing more than contractor's paper. They use the paper to walk on when a new house is mostly finished and they don't want to walk on the new carpet. I got it from Lowes.
Howard Zane showed me the paper method when he was getting ready to do a second video with Allen Keller.
I'll talk more about the paper in a later thread.
Tom ;D
Next is the installation of the highway bridge.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216115305.jpeg)
I added a new section to fit the bridge in order to get the proper length.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216115337.jpeg)
I couldn't match exactly the railings on the end section piece but I think it looks okay. I'll put a speed limit sign in front of it.
Continued in a few.
By the way, the highway bridge and the bridge supports came from the old layout. Here is how it looked on the old layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216120147.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216120204.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216120219.jpeg)
Diet Pepsi break time. More in a few.
As I mentioned, the supports were from the old layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216115324.jpeg)
I measured how much I needed to remove from the old support and used the Xacto razor saw and removed the unwanted portion. In the photo below you can see the original height and the one with a portion removed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216115352.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I used sandpaper to fine tune the correct height.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216115407.jpeg)
And the new support is in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216115422.jpeg)
I repeated the process for the other end.
More to follow.
I built two additional bridge supports for the center portion of the bridge. By the way, the bridge and supports are the Rix Products Early Highway Overpass.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216115501.jpeg)
I glued the poles to the top section (in the photo, the top section is on the bottom) of the support. I used the square to ensure all was level. I think I've mentioned in the past level is good.
I then placed the completed support section under the bridge where it will be located.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216115515.jpeg)
I then marked the location on the paper for the support.
Continued in a few.
Once in place, I raised the poles and pushed the top up against the bottom of the bridge ribs.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216115532.jpeg)
Once I made sure all was level and straight, I glued the poles in position.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216115551.jpeg)
Here is an overall view of the railroad bridge and the highway overpass.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080216115606.jpeg)
Good looking level job you got going there. 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Jim
I do recall hearing something about being level.
8)
This is the equipment that Tom uses to get level ..... but doesn't want us to know.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.merlinlazer.com%2Fshop_images%2FNA700_Kit2036.jpg&hash=b8b4c9dafdfd7aee48681078009f149b5b2acb02)
Tom, great technique --- great result!
Hey Tom.....whatever happened yo your AS?
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 09, 2016, 09:03:01 AM
Hey Tom.....whatever happened yo your AS?
Greg,
just in case Tom has forgotten where is AS is, I have it!. I am going to use it in a very special photo shoot later in the year. If anybody needs between now and October, have Tom call me with the info.
Frank / Erieman
Gents........
That is a lot of really trick equipment to attempt to prove that Tom is on the level here...........
My detector is going off ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Quote from: jimmillho on February 08, 2016, 08:02:47 PM
Good looking level job you got going there. 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Jim
Jim,
You know me, I have no choice but to level with everyone. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ak-milw on February 08, 2016, 09:14:36 PM
I do recall hearing something about being level.
8)
Andy,
Now I think you are leveling out! Thanks for checking in.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on February 08, 2016, 10:18:53 PM
This is the equipment that Tom uses to get level ..... but doesn't want us to know.
Donato,
Did you sneak in here and take a level picture of my level? My leveling secret is out.
Tom ;D
Quote from: martin.ojaste on February 09, 2016, 08:59:25 AM
Tom, great technique --- great result!
Martin,
Thanks for checking in, much appreciated. It was fun and great to see a plan come together.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 09, 2016, 09:03:01 AM
Hey Tom.....whatever happened yo your AS?
Greg,
Frank beat me to it. He's had my AS and my back ever since the new layout started. In fact the entire Saturday Butty Group has had my AS cover at one time or another. 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on February 09, 2016, 12:43:36 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 09, 2016, 09:03:01 AM
Hey Tom.....whatever happened yo your AS?
Greg,
just in case Tom has forgotten where is AS is, I have it!. I am going to use it in a very special photo shoot later in the year. If anybody needs between now and October, have Tom call me with the info.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for posting up. I can't wait on the pictures. Hope you are feeling much better. ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on February 09, 2016, 12:48:37 PM
Gents........
That is a lot of really trick equipment to attempt to prove that Tom is on the level here...........
My detector is going off ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Bob,
All this level talk has me a bit dizzy. My detector has been on overload all morning. My bubble may be a little off but I'm on the level. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Tom...
OK if you say so.................... But my detector is still sounding off ......
see ya
Bob
Quote from: bparrish on February 09, 2016, 01:06:53 PM
Tom...
OK if you say so.................... But my detector is still sounding off ......
see ya
Bob
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 09, 2016, 01:02:39 PM
Quote from: Erieman on February 09, 2016, 12:43:36 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 09, 2016, 09:03:01 AM
Hey Tom.....whatever happened yo your AS?
Greg,
just in case Tom has forgotten where is AS is, I have it!. I am going to use it in a very special photo shoot later in the year. If anybody needs between now and October, have Tom call me with the info.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for posting up. I can't wait on the pictures. Hope you are feeling much better. ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Feeling a little better. Spent some time in the train room working on the Lime company. If you need your AS back, let me know.
Frank / Erieman
Tom
The last time I saw your AS was at Howard Zane's place. It sure is a good thing Frank found it or is it saved it. I hope everyone is feeling better.
Thanks Frank.....I was getting a little worried that Tom had lost his AS. ;D ;D ;D
Don't you just love all the AS ing around???
Feeling a little better. Spent some time in the train room working on the Lime company. If you need your AS back, let me know.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
I don't need me AS but I'm glad you are feeling much better. A little train room visit always made me feel a little better.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on February 10, 2016, 08:22:49 AM
Tom
The last time I saw your AS was at Howard Zane's place. It sure is a good thing Frank found it or is it saved it. I hope everyone is feeling better.
John,
I forgot we took my AS to Howard's. That sure was a great trip.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 10, 2016, 09:02:16 AM
Thanks Frank.....I was getting a little worried that Tom had lost his AS. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
I knew all along where my AS was. Why are you, well, never mind.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on February 10, 2016, 02:06:29 PM
Don't you just love all the AS ing around???
Donato,
Yes, but I think we've milked this cow enough! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Okay, I relaid the track on the 36.5" radius and I'm much happier. I never should have changed it. The extra span forced it on me. It all looks much better now.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090216153119.jpeg)
I ran a train over the new curve and it stopped. I couldn't figure out what I did. Then it dawned on me I forgot to rewire the feeders.
The feeders on the left are for the mainline and the ones on the right are for the lift out.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090216153139.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I got a sheet of 2x2' one ply cardboard from Sam Flax Art Supply to make a pattern of the roadway.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090216153154.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090216153213.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090216153231.jpeg)
When I'm satisfied how it looks, I'll trace the pattern on a sheet of 2x2' two ply. The two ply is obviously thicker and better meets my need.
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090216153310.jpeg)
In the photo above you can see where the highway will cross the track and come out on the other side of the bookcase. Just kidding about the other side.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090216153310.jpeg)
I've been experimenting with some blue foam for a land form. I think for Florida/Southern Georgia, one layer will be better. The two layers just doesn't look right to me.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090216153325.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090216153340.jpeg)
I'll leave it in place and see if it doesn't grow on me. It may look better in a few weeks.
I think the foam looks ok.
8)
Uh,
Wouldn't the foam look better along a Florida beach? 8) ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 10, 2016, 02:09:58 PM
Quote from: Donato on February 10, 2016, 02:06:29 PM
Don't you just love all the AS ing around???
Donato,
Yes, but I think we've milked this cow enough! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
I think you're right!
(https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Q31_sG47akg/hqdefault.jpg)
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 10, 2016, 02:08:52 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 10, 2016, 09:02:16 AM
Thanks Frank.....I was getting a little worried that Tom had lost his AS. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
I knew all along where my AS was. Why are you, well, never mind.
Tom ;D
Oh brother..... ??? ::) :)
Quote from: ak-milw on February 10, 2016, 08:18:06 PM
I think the foam looks ok.
8)
Andy,
Thanks, I was thinking it is maybe to high. One layer instead of two. I think once I shave it down more it will work.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on February 10, 2016, 08:41:09 PM
Uh,
Wouldn't the foam look better along a Florida beach? 8) ;D
Chip,
Yes, you are correct. But that is white foam, did you notice this is blue? LOL! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Hi,
Tom, you made fantastic progress on your layout. The bridge scene is great and your helix is outstanding.
Thanks for sharing ,
Regards,Chris
Tom, you know best what will look right to you. But a 15' deep cut for the road and tracks as they approach a river of some size, 20-30 feet below the grade, doesn't seem unreasonable to me.
Quote from: Donato on February 10, 2016, 09:06:05 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 10, 2016, 02:09:58 PM
Quote from: Donato on February 10, 2016, 02:06:29 PM
Don't you just love all the AS ing around???
Donato,
Yes, but I think we've milked this cow enough! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
I think you're right!
Donato,
Now that's funny. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on February 11, 2016, 11:18:48 AM
Hi,
Tom, you made fantastic progress on your layout. The bridge scene is great and your helix is outstanding.
Thanks for sharing ,
Regards,Chris
Chris,
Yes, my friend, I've been very busy. But not as busy as you it seems. Your layout is looking fantastic. Thanks for the kind words regarding the bridge and Ovalix, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jbvb on February 11, 2016, 04:56:48 PM
Tom, you know best what will look right to you. But a 15' deep cut for the road and tracks as they approach a river of some size, 20-30 feet below the grade, doesn't seem unreasonable to me.
James,
I think you are correct and thanks for pointing that out to me. I think it's the blue color that has me stumped. I still need to shave it down and cut a small road through it for some "woodsy" effect.
By the way, I took a measurement and the HO scale height of the cut is only 14'. I believe it will work just fine.
Thanks for the input and your posting.
Tom ;D
Today I painted the new section of the bridge and the bridge supports. When the paint cures, I'll add the yellow strip and some additional weathering.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120216171406.jpeg)
Well, I don't really have any updates on the layout. I've devoted the months of February and March to strictly painting brass locos, one brass caboose and five brass log cars.
However, the Judge and I were having a conversation on our locomotive roster. We have ACL, SAL, FEC, PRR, SRR, L&N, IC, CB&Q, C&O, AB&C, S&A(Savannah & Atlanta), N.C. & ST.L., RF&P, Clinchfield and the FRISCO.
Our railroad is the Atlantic and Southern. The Judge says with all the different road names we should call it the Atlantic and Southern System.
We can then officially call the road the ASS line. 8)
Nuff said! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Nothing like putting your ASS on the line
8)
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 27, 2016, 07:57:45 PM
Well, I don't really have any updates on the layout. I've devoted the months of February and March to strictly painting brass locos, one brass caboose and five brass log cars.
However, the Judge and I were having a conversation on our locomotive roster. We have ACL, SAL, FEC, PRR, SRR, L&N, IC, CB&Q, C&O, AB&C, S&A(Savannah & Atlanta), N.C. & ST.L., RF&P, Clinchfield and the FRISCO.
Our railroad is the Atlantic and Southern. The Judge says with all the different road names we should call it the Atlantic and Southern System.
We can then officially call the road the ASS line. 8)
Nuff said! ;D ;D ;D ;D
At least everyone will be able to remember the name of the railroad. At least the abbreviation. ASS RR - I think it's a done deal. I think the S&S needs a special sorting spur for all the traffic heading to the ASS.
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 27, 2016, 07:57:45 PM
We can then officially call the road the ASS line. 8)
Nuff said! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Have you two been looking at my modeling "efforts"? :'(
Quote from: ak-milw on February 27, 2016, 08:11:09 PM
Nothing like putting your ASS on the line
8)
Andy,
I think I'm getting the hang of all this. MY AS hopper has been on the road for about four years now and my ASS RR has been on the line for what seems like forever.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on February 27, 2016, 08:47:23 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 27, 2016, 07:57:45 PM
Well, I don't really have any updates on the layout. I've devoted the months of February and March to strictly painting brass locos, one brass caboose and five brass log cars.
However, the Judge and I were having a conversation on our locomotive roster. We have ACL, SAL, FEC, PRR, SRR, L&N, IC, CB&Q, C&O, AB&C, S&A(Savannah & Atlanta), N.C. & ST.L., RF&P, Clinchfield and the FRISCO.
Our railroad is the Atlantic and Southern. The Judge says with all the different road names we should call it the Atlantic and Southern System.
We can then officially call the road the ASS line. 8)
Nuff said! ;D ;D ;D ;D
At least everyone will be able to remember the name of the railroad. At least the abbreviation. ASS RR - I think it's a done deal. I think the S&S needs a special sorting spur for all the traffic heading to the ASS.
John,
I'm having some A&S decals made up. The ASS Line is a fun idea but I'm keeping it just plain ole A&S RR. When I get a boxcar done in the A&S I'll send you one and the S&S RR.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on February 27, 2016, 10:10:47 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 27, 2016, 07:57:45 PM
We can then officially call the road the ASS line. 8)
Nuff said! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Have you two been looking at my modeling "efforts"? :'(
Chip,
No, I haven't. Do you have any pictures? Or is this an asinine idea? Oh boy, here we go again with the word game. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 27, 2016, 07:57:45 PM
Well, I don't really have any updates on the layout. I've devoted the months of February and March to strictly painting brass locos, one brass caboose and five brass log cars.
However, the Judge and I were having a conversation on our locomotive roster. We have ACL, SAL, FEC, PRR, SRR, L&N, IC, CB&Q, C&O, AB&C, S&A(Savannah & Atlanta), N.C. & ST.L., RF&P, Clinchfield and the FRISCO.
Our railroad is the Atlantic and Southern. The Judge says with all the different road names we should call it the Atlantic and Southern System.
We can then officially call the road the ASS line. 8)
Nuff said! ;D ;D ;D ;D
I like it.....it really appeals to my warped sense of humor. ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 28, 2016, 08:56:19 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 27, 2016, 07:57:45 PM
Well, I don't really have any updates on the layout. I've devoted the months of February and March to strictly painting brass locos, one brass caboose and five brass log cars.
However, the Judge and I were having a conversation on our locomotive roster. We have ACL, SAL, FEC, PRR, SRR, L&N, IC, CB&Q, C&O, AB&C, S&A(Savannah & Atlanta), N.C. & ST.L., RF&P, Clinchfield and the FRISCO.
Our railroad is the Atlantic and Southern. The Judge says with all the different road names we should call it the Atlantic and Southern System.
We can then officially call the road the ASS line. 8)
Nuff said! ;D ;D ;D ;D
I like it.....it really appeals to my warped sense of humor. ;D
It would, wouldn't it!
Tom ;D
Let me see if I understand this naming thing......my railroad has been called the Southern Division of the Atlantic & Southern RR, by Tom for some time. Now I guess it becomes a part of the Atlantic & Southern System, ASS. So I guess it should now be known as the Southern Atlantic & Southern System, SASS, or maybe The Southern Division of the Atlantic & Southern System, SaDASS.
This is mind boggling.
Jim
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 28, 2016, 08:49:28 AM
Quote from: S&S RR on February 27, 2016, 08:47:23 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 27, 2016, 07:57:45 PM
Well, I don't really have any updates on the layout. I've devoted the months of February and March to strictly painting brass locos, one brass caboose and five brass log cars.
However, the Judge and I were having a conversation on our locomotive roster. We have ACL, SAL, FEC, PRR, SRR, L&N, IC, CB&Q, C&O, AB&C, S&A(Savannah & Atlanta), N.C. & ST.L., RF&P, Clinchfield and the FRISCO.
Our railroad is the Atlantic and Southern. The Judge says with all the different road names we should call it the Atlantic and Southern System.
We can then officially call the road the ASS line. 8)
Nuff said! ;D ;D ;D ;D
At least everyone will be able to remember the name of the railroad. At least the abbreviation. ASS RR - I think it's a done deal. I think the S&S needs a special sorting spur for all the traffic heading to the ASS.
John,
I'm having some A&S decals made up. The ASS Line is a fun idea but I'm keeping it just plain ole A&S RR. When I get a boxcar done in the A&S I'll send you one and the S&S RR.
Tom ;D
Wonder if that boxcar will be a billboard one .... for:
(https://www.antiquesnavigator.com/ebay/images/2010/360330110249.jpg)
Quote from: jimmillho on February 28, 2016, 11:23:29 AM
Let me see if I understand this naming thing......my railroad has been called the Southern Division of the Atlantic & Southern RR, by Tom for some time. Now I guess it becomes a part of the Atlantic & Southern System, ASS. So I guess it should now be known as the Southern Atlantic & Southern System, SASS, or maybe The Southern Division of the Atlantic & Southern System, SaDASS.
This is mind boggling.
Jim
Jim,
I'm thinking it could be worse, or worse yet, it will! We'll keep your SASS in the South.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on February 28, 2016, 12:36:38 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 28, 2016, 08:49:28 AM
Quote from: S&S RR on February 27, 2016, 08:47:23 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 27, 2016, 07:57:45 PM
Well, I don't really have any updates on the layout. I've devoted the months of February and March to strictly painting brass locos, one brass caboose and five brass log cars.
However, the Judge and I were having a conversation on our locomotive roster. We have ACL, SAL, FEC, PRR, SRR, L&N, IC, CB&Q, C&O, AB&C, S&A(Savannah & Atlanta), N.C. & ST.L., RF&P, Clinchfield and the FRISCO.
Our railroad is the Atlantic and Southern. The Judge says with all the different road names we should call it the Atlantic and Southern System.
We can then officially call the road the ASS line. 8)
Nuff said! ;D ;D ;D ;D
At least everyone will be able to remember the name of the railroad. At least the abbreviation. ASS RR - I think it's a done deal. I think the S&S needs a special sorting spur for all the traffic heading to the ASS.
John,
I'm having some A&S decals made up. The ASS Line is a fun idea but I'm keeping it just plain ole A&S RR. When I get a boxcar done in the A&S I'll send you one and the S&S RR.
Tom ;D
Wonder if that boxcar will be a billboard one .... for:
(https://www.antiquesnavigator.com/ebay/images/2010/360330110249.jpg) (https://www.antiquesnavigator.com/ebay/images/2010/360330110249.jpg)
Donato,
Hmmm, the possibilities.
Tom 8) 8)
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 28, 2016, 01:49:58 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on February 28, 2016, 11:23:29 AM
Let me see if I understand this naming thing......my railroad has been called the Southern Division of the Atlantic & Southern RR, by Tom for some time. Now I guess it becomes a part of the Atlantic & Southern System, ASS. So I guess it should now be known as the Southern Atlantic & Southern System, SASS, or maybe The Southern Division of the Atlantic & Southern System, SaDASS.
This is mind boggling.
Jim
Jim,
I'm thinking it could be worse, or worse yet, it will! We'll keep your SASS in the South.
Tom ;D
At our ages, the're all heading south. ;D
I'm sure glad we got the naming thing cleared up. Time to get back to building a railroad.
The CB&Q didn't get quite that far south. :)
Jeff
Quote from: S&S RR on February 28, 2016, 08:30:33 PM
I'm sure glad we got the naming thing cleared up. Time to get back to building a railroad.
Me too! Enough already!
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on February 28, 2016, 08:42:35 PM
The CB&Q didn't get quite that far south. :)
Jeff
Jeff,
The Atlantic and Southern has leased three Burlington diesels and 11 Zepher cars. With the increase in local traffic, the A&S now has a Florida Zepher. 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Hey, remember me? Yep, I'll be back after the EXPO. Over the past few months I've been painting my derriere off on a few pieces of brass.
I need to clean my back shop work area off.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260316185756.jpeg)
Structure building area needs to be clean up as well.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260316185813.jpeg)
More in a few.
While working on the brass locos, I've even become very lazy on letting "crap" build up on the layout. All the layout and track areas will be cleaned up as well prior to the EXPO.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260316185837.jpeg)
When I get back I want to jump right in on the layout work and not have to take the time to clean it up.
See ya'll after the EXPO.
Tom ;D
Funny how everything turns up on unfinished layout areas.
Maybe while everyone is gone, I'll try to clean up the Train Room.
Jim
Quote from: ak-milw on March 26, 2016, 07:56:16 PM
Funny how everything turns up on unfinished layout areas.
Andy,
It happens more than I want it to.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on March 26, 2016, 09:52:14 PM
Maybe while everyone is gone, I'll try to clean up the Train Room.
Jim
Jim,
Thanks, I'll leave the key under the mat.
Tom ;D
Tom,
Your Train room looks a lot cleaner than mine. how about taking a picture looking from the bookcase into the room so you can see both sides of the room. I would like to see as much of the total room as possible. Just asking. Yes. I'm in the train room, trying to wake up. The Easter luncheon was a bit too much. Need something to wake me up - how about scenery?!!!
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: Erieman on March 27, 2016, 03:21:50 PM
Tom,
Your Train room looks a lot cleaner than mine. how about taking a picture looking from the bookcase into the room so you can see both sides of the room. I would like to see as much of the total room as possible. Just asking. Yes. I'm in the train room, trying to wake up. The Easter luncheon was a bit too much. Need something to wake me up - how about scenery?!!!
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
The room is getting clearer by the day. I'll get the photo for you tomorrow evening. I still need to clean off the layout first. Today I spent cleaning up the workbench area.
I've already eaten two bunny ears. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
As I mentioned to Frank above, I spent today cleaning up the two work areas.
The back shop area - all rolling stock and passenger car repairs, brass loco work and decaling.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270316161049.jpeg)
Structure building, painting and weathering of structures.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270316161106.jpeg)
Over view of both areas.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270316161120.jpeg)
Looks good Tom. It'll look even better next weekend when there'should a bag of goodies from the EXPO sitting on it. :D
Quote from: ReadingBob on March 27, 2016, 04:35:59 PM
Looks good Tom. It'll look even better next weekend when there'should a bag of goodies from the EXPO sitting on it. :D
Bob,
Yea, you bet! Maybe a new structure or two, some Joey Picard backdrops, and the list goes on and on.
Tom ;D
Do you really think a "bag" of goodies will be enough......??? At the very least he will need one of these .....
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimageshotfrogus.blob.core.windows.net%2Fcompanies%2FPODS-Denver-Moving-and-Storage_21778092%2Fimages%2FPODS-Denver-Moving-and-Storage_21778092_97036_image.jpg&hash=4cb2bf2821704c070379331a138b7bd2510530aa)
Tom
That is one neat looking work area. I hope you remember where you put everything.
Tom, I feel your pain. I finished my diorama and spent the next few hours cleaning up ready to get back to finding excuses for not doing anything more on the layout.
Quote from: S&S RR on March 28, 2016, 09:31:43 PM
Tom
That is one neat looking work area. I hope you remember where you put everything.
John,
Thanks, me too! I did find two Xacto knives when I cleaned up.
Tom ;D
Quote from: martin.ojaste on March 28, 2016, 10:28:08 PM
Tom, I feel your pain. I finished my diorama and spent the next few hours cleaning up ready to get back to finding excuses for not doing anything more on the layout.
Martin,
It only takes a few hours to get the work areas all messed up but a half a day or more to clean up! 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Tom............
Note to self............. stop cleaning and keep building ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Quote from: bparrish on March 29, 2016, 04:58:59 PM
Tom............
Note to self............. stop cleaning and keep building ! ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Bob,
I took your advice. The cleaning is over and the build continues.
Tom ;D
While at the Expo last week I spent some time with Joey Ricard of Trackside Scenery. He will be doing all 100+ feet of my backdrops.
We exchanged several emails today and I sent him an information sheet along with 24 photos of the area to be covered.
I'll keep ya'll posted.
Tom ;D
I forgot to add his site.
www.tracksidescenery.com
Tom ;D
Tom, did everything make it to Florida in one piece?
Quote from: Raymo on April 04, 2016, 08:35:51 PM
Tom, did everything make it to Florida in one piece?
Dan,
Yes, it did. Thank you very much for all you did. The restaurant you took us to on the first night was very good. I enjoyed the baked Haddock.
Tom ;D
Great! I've always have enjoyed the food there.
Hi there.
It´s always crazy how things can mess up within minutes.....and it lasts for decades to clean it up....I always start to clean up things when I need one of those things hidden somewhere on the layout. You´ll search for hours and you are knowing the point you have used it the last time....or the other point..... or the other.....you didn´t find it....sit down in front of your workbench and there it pops up....... what the hell... who has it put there....and you know somewhere in the last corner of your brain that you are the only one who use those things.....Do you know those moments,too ;) ;)
But your cleaning looks nice...
Regards,Chris
Quote from: Twist67 on April 05, 2016, 10:23:11 AM
Hi there.
It´s always crazy how things can mess up within minutes.....and it lasts for decades to clean it up....I always start to clean up things when I need one of those things hidden somewhere on the layout. You´ll search for hours and you are knowing the point you have used it the last time....or the other point..... or the other.....you didn´t find it....sit down in front of your workbench and there it pops up....... what the hell... who has it put there....and you know somewhere in the last corner of your brain that you are the only one who use those things.....Do you know those moments,too ;) ;)
But your cleaning looks nice...
Regards,Chris
Chris,
Hey, thanks for stopping by. I agree with everything you've stated. I've found things that were once lost and I've lost things that were once found. All in the name of cleaning up. Go figure.
Tom
Last year at the Scranton Expo, Jeff Grove introduced me to Joey Ricard of Trackside Scenery.
www.tracksidescenery.com
It took me all of last year to get ready for his backdrops. We have been working together since this years Boston Expo on the backdrops for the Atlantic and Southern RR.
Here is a look at where and what we are doing.
This is the river scene behind and at river bed level at the double bridge area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070416171533.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Here is a look at the Bascule bridge area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070416171548.jpeg)
See, I've placed a bunch of my Expo goodies in the river bed. 8) 8) 8)
Continued in a few.
Here is a look at how the road will look. The road is behind the Delwin's Boat and Net Storage. You see Jimmy D's Bakers Country store on the right. There actually are areas in Florida where the distance hills look like this from higher elevations.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070416171603.jpeg)
Tom ;D
The backdrops look great, Tom. I was just thinking about doing the same thing with one of my bridges/valleys. Even went to their site and then I see how great it looks with your bridge.
Jeff
Looks great Tom and it was nice meeting you at the Expo.
Wow. That's going to be an amazing addition to the layout.
John
Tom,
That looks Awesome.
Jim
Hi Tom,
That Backdrop looks fantastic. Those are awesome scenes. ;)
Regards,Chris
Looking good Tom..... 8)
Very cool! Jim
Just the right finishing touch.
Tom,
Wow! absolutely fantastic work. Man what can one say. I'm a fan as always. Thanks for sharing.
Thanx Thom...
Looks great Tom. I love the depth it gives to the layout.
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on April 07, 2016, 08:01:51 PM
The backdrops look great, Tom. I was just thinking about doing the same thing with one of my bridges/valleys. Even went to their site and then I see how great it looks with your bridge.
Jeff
Jeff,
Thank you and thanks for stopping by. I've looked at many different backdrops and decided Joey Ricard would get my business. Quite a bit of work goes into each section of the backdrop. The backdrops are layered in foreground trees, intermediate distance trees and finally background trees. The three photos are merged giving the background a 3D affect.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twopoint2 on April 07, 2016, 08:49:47 PM
Looks great Tom and it was nice meeting you at the Expo.
Jim,
Thank you, much appreciated. It was a pleasure meeting you and your wife at the Expo.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on April 07, 2016, 09:03:40 PM
Wow. That's going to be an amazing addition to the layout.
John
John,
Thanks, I can't wait to see it all come together.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on April 07, 2016, 10:22:35 PM
Tom,
That looks Awesome.
Jim
Thanks SBG Jimmy, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on April 08, 2016, 07:18:54 AM
Hi Tom,
That Backdrop looks fantastic. Those are awesome scenes. ;)
Regards,Chris
Chris,
Much appreciated. Just wait it gets better.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on April 08, 2016, 08:42:17 AM
Looking good Tom..... 8)
Greg,
Thanks, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jrmueller on April 08, 2016, 10:01:46 AM
Very cool! Jim
Jim,
Thanks, I hope to have them up when you return to the Sunshine State.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on April 08, 2016, 10:47:01 AM
Just the right finishing touch.
Donato,
They are very nice and you'll be very surprised to see all the others.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on April 08, 2016, 10:53:33 AM
Tom,
Wow! absolutely fantastic work. Man what can one say. I'm a fan as always. Thanks for sharing.
Thanx Thom...
Thom,
Thank you, much appreciated. Thank you for all you've done for us while we were in Boston. I thoroughly enjoyed all our conversations. Can't wait to get back.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on April 08, 2016, 01:35:14 PM
Looks great Tom. I love the depth it gives to the layout.
John,
I appreciate you stopping by. The 3D look is simply amazing.
Tom ;D
Upon my return from the Boston Expo. I started right back in on the layout. One minor irritation has bugged me for the past few months. I just didn't like how the trains looked coming out of baker's Curve to the cutoff to the Ovalix.
As soon as the train came out of the curve is entered the #6 left hand turnout.
I removed 6 1/2 ft. of track and cork roadbed. I added a 6" section of straight in front of the turnout. See photo below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090416141507.jpeg)
New roadbed section.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090416141528.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The black line in the next two photos show you the original curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090416141543.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090416141559.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Adding the six inches, also moved the track six inches closer to the wall. This was necessary to maintain the 36" radius.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090416141559.jpeg)
In addition, I've been having some issues with the turnout as well. I did a thorough inspection of the turnouit and found the stock rail and switch points were out of gauge.
They weren't out that much but just enough for some trains to constantly derail. The derails occured at random times but enough to get my attention.
I made the decision to replace the turnout. However; the ballast had already been glued in place. I didn't want to removed the cork roadbed along with the turnout so this is what I did.
First a look at the new track and old turnout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090416191024.jpeg)
I used a #11 Xacto blade and carefully cut along the outside edge of the ties. I used the Dremel cut off disk and cut the turnout rails 1/2" from the soldered rail joiners. I then carefully removed the turnout leaving the outside ballast in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090416141650.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090416141705.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I then unsoldered the turnout rails and rail joiners. I cleaned the old ballast from the center.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090416141813.jpeg)
The new and in gauge turnout was installed and new rail joiners were solder to the existing stock rails on the mainline.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090416141827.jpeg)
The white you see under the turnout is a very this piece of paper covering the hole so the new ballast doesn't fall through to the staging level.
Tom.
that´s a nice solution for your problem with the new curve. You´ve also done it right with changing the turnout. If something doesn´t work right, change it....Keep it going.
Regards,Chris
Quote from: Twist67 on April 11, 2016, 01:36:07 PM
Tom.
that´s a nice solution for your problem with the new curve. You´ve also done it right with changing the turnout. If something doesn´t work right, change it....Keep it going.
Regards,Chris
Chris,
Thank for stopping by. The turnout had to go it was bad and I got tired of trying to make adjustments. should have done it a long time ago.
Tom ;D
Looks good Tom. Do you paint the track and ties and what ballast type and size is being used?
Quote from: Twopoint2 on April 11, 2016, 05:42:34 PM
Looks good Tom. Do you paint the track and ties and what ballast type and size is being used?
Jim,
Thank you for the kind words. I paint the rails with Floquil Rail Brown and the ties with Floquil Railroad Tie Brown. The Floquil paints are no longer available. I purchased mine several years ago and have mulitible bottles of each color they made. Craft Store paints work just as well.
In the past I've used the crushed shell ballast sold by Woodland Express. Of course they fail to tell you their ballast is made from crushed nut shells.
I'm now using Arizona Rock & Mineral Ballast. I use HO scale No. 105-2 in the 9 oz. bags. It only comes in 9 oz. bags. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
No. 105-2 is Pennsylvania Railroad Light Gray. It's very close to the actual light gray ballast CSX uses. Arizona Rock does make a CSX light gray but I think it's the same as the Pennsylvania ballast.
Either way, I'll weather the ballast after is has been glued and dry for a week. I use the Hunterline Creosote Black between the rails and 70% Thinner to 30% Floquil Rust wash for the outside rails.
Hope this gives you what you need.
Tom ;D
Tom....
I was helping a modeler some years ago with ballasting and using a children's medicine to drizzle dilute white glue over the shaped ballast. It tried to float. I had never seen that as I use a sand mix from the Brunau sand dunes insouthern Idaho. It scales out right for HO and has a great color mix for western granite. I was confounded about the floating until I discovered it was an organic material. Note to self ...........
See ya
Bob
Quote from: bparrish on April 11, 2016, 08:08:50 PM
Tom....
I was helping a modeler some years ago with ballasting and using a children's medicine to drizzle dilute white glue over the shaped ballast. It tried to float. I had never seen that as I use a sand mix from the Brunau sand dunes insouthern Idaho. It scales out right for HO and has a great color mix for western granite. I was confounded about the floating until I discovered it was an organic material. Note to self ...........
See ya
Bob
The (inorganic) rock pumice floats...
dave
Dave....
But what is WS using? I thought it was crushed walnut shells or something.
Thanx
Bob
Quote from: bparrish on April 12, 2016, 10:00:27 AM
Dave....
But what is WS using? I thought it was crushed walnut shells or something.
Thanx
Bob
I think that's right.
dave
I think that's what Tom referred to 5 posts back. :o
Carry on
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 11, 2016, 06:34:12 PM
Quote from: Twopoint2 on April 11, 2016, 05:42:34 PM
Looks good Tom. Do you paint the track and ties and what ballast type and size is being used?
Jim,
Thank you for the kind words. I paint the rails with Floquil Rail Brown and the ties with Floquil Railroad Tie Brown. The Floquil paints are no longer available. I purchased mine several years ago and have mulitible bottles of each color they made. Craft Store paints work just as well.
In the past I've used the crushed shell ballast sold by Woodland Express. Of course they fail to tell you their ballast is made from crushed nut shells.
I'm now using Arizona Rock & Mineral Ballast. I use HO scale No. 105-2 in the 9 oz. bags. It only comes in 9 oz. bags. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
No. 105-2 is Pennsylvania Railroad Light Gray. It's very close to the actual light gray ballast CSX uses. Arizona Rock does make a CSX light gray but I think it's the same as the Pennsylvania ballast.
Either way, I'll weather the ballast after is has been glued and dry for a week. I use the Hunterline Creosote Black between the rails and 70% Thinner to 30% Floquil Rust wash for the outside rails.
Hope this gives you what you need.
Tom ;D
Following up on Tom's comments on Ballast, I would like to add that when purchasing ballast for your railroad, buy enough to do it all at one time. These folks are typically Mom & Pop operations. As such, they do not attempt to maintain a color continuity which can result in some really horrible changes in ballast color on your layout. I have found that out the hard way. I recommend purchasing the quantity you need and putting it into one big bucket, then mixing everything together. This will keep color variations to a minimum. I started using High Ball ballast years ago, only to find that each time the company was sold, the new owner was finding rock some place different. Eventually the color consistency was really far off. Arizona Rock grinds their rock like the rest of the manufacturers but each time they go out and get more rock, there is the potential for a color variance. Not cool, unless you want it that way. Just saying.
Frank / Erieman
And, to follow up on Frank's follow up. I took Franks's advice and purchased 20 bags of the ballast from AR&M. All the same color. It is advice definitely worth taking and following.
Tom ;D
Bob and Dave,
Not sure what kind of nut shells the nuts at WS are using. All I know is what I said which isn't much. 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D ;D ;D
I forgot to mention that I used all 20 bags on the second level. Well, actually 19 bags but I have about 8 feet left to do.
Tom
The other side of the coin is .... the prototype railroads don't ballast every linear mile at the same time, hence there are variations of color. So in the model world, variations are prototypical, as long as it is not nuts.
The mixed nuts in this thread are beginning to drive me nuts. Actually, that will be just a short, gimme' putt. 8)
Quote from: RWL on April 12, 2016, 04:16:00 PM
The other side of the coin is .... the prototype railroads don't ballast every linear mile at the same time, hence there are variations of color. So in the model world, variations are prototypical, as long as it is not nuts.
Bob,
You are correct. Even in the 20 bags I have there is a very slight variation in some of the bags. It seems that not all rocks are the same color even from the same area.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on April 12, 2016, 04:45:15 PM
The mixed nuts in this thread are beginning to drive me nuts. Actually, that will be just a short, gimme' putt. 8)
Chip,
Mixed nuts are a good thing, right? I mean look at this forum - nuff said! ;D ;D ;D ;D Gimme putts or gimme nuts, it all the same to me.
Tom ;D
I mentioned I've been working with Joey Ricard of Trackside Scenery. It's time to get my walls ready. I'm using Masonite for the base of the photo backdrops.
I didn't want to waste a large section of Masonite so I used the river bed cut out and glued it to a section of 12" X 96" Masonite.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171404.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416174712.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171517.jpeg)
The section is now in position. It's not a perfect match but will do when scenery is applied around the photo.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171538.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Corner view.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171553.jpeg)
I'm using Loctite All Purpose Adhesive to "stick" it to the walls. It won't be coming off. My heirs will have to worry about it when the time comes. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171607.jpeg)
More in a few.
The West wall is now finished. Here is a long view of the Masonite base.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171624.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171641.jpeg)
Sure is a LONG view.
Quote from: ak-milw on April 12, 2016, 07:56:36 PM
Sure is a LONG view.
Andy,
The view is SHORT but the distance is 36 ft. ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8) 8)
(https://nuts.com/images/auto/801x534/assets/491013ba59220b0c.jpg)
Quote from: Donato on April 12, 2016, 09:04:27 PM
(https://nuts.com/images/auto/801x534/assets/491013ba59220b0c.jpg) (https://nuts.com/images/auto/801x534/assets/491013ba59220b0c.jpg)
Oh, another group forum photo.
Tom ;D
That Donato sure has a sense of humor, love it.
I finally got 98% of the ballast finished. I still need to weather the ballast in the second level yard area but that is the easy part.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171658.jpeg)
The short section of siding track is still loose. It'll be set after the Trackside Scenery photo backdrop is in place and the building location is adjusted.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171712.jpeg)
Speaking of 'nuts'...
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.asomf.org%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F12%2FDec1944_101stLetter-780x1024.jpg&hash=101b218e45d0de7ac12d07601d343f0f5e8fb482)
dave
Dave,
When I read the letter today as well as many years ago, I believe it to be the best ever response to any request/demand.
Wonderful letter. Makes you proud to be an American in spite of the current POTUS!
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 14, 2016, 12:01:17 PM
That Donato sure has a sense of humor, love it.
I finally got 98% of the ballast finished. I still need to weather the ballast in the second level yard area but that is the easy part.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171658.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171658.jpeg)
The short section of siding track is still loose. It'll be set after the Trackside Scenery photo backdrop is in place and the building location is adjusted.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171712.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171712.jpeg)
Looks great Tom - You sure have room for some structures.
Looking good as always Tom. What's the rectangle cutout about half way down for?
Andy,
Much appreciated. The hole is for the FSM Brownsville Station. This one is a Reading Bob structure painted in the Atlantic and Southern RR colors.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150416154617.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150416154631.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150416154644.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150416154657.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150416154713.jpeg)
Quote from: S&S RR on April 14, 2016, 07:20:18 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 14, 2016, 12:01:17 PM
That Donato sure has a sense of humor, love it.
I finally got 98% of the ballast finished. I still need to weather the ballast in the second level yard area but that is the easy part.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171658.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171658.jpeg)
The short section of siding track is still loose. It'll be set after the Trackside Scenery photo backdrop is in place and the building location is adjusted.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171712.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120416171712.jpeg)
Looks great Tom - You sure have room for so structures.
John,
Thanks, very much appreciated. Yes, plenty of room!
Tom ;D
Thanks for the explanation Tom, it fits perfect.
Quote from: ak-milw on April 15, 2016, 11:11:00 PM
Thanks for the explanation Tom, it fits perfect.
Andy,
You are welcome. I appreciate you following along with all the progress.
Tom ;D
I mentioned on the forum this morning that I received Joey Ricard's photo backdrop in the mail.
I'd like to start on a section this afternoon but I first need to find some spray adhesive and a small squeegee.
Report to follow later today.
I'll be very interested in your techniques/results with the backdrops, Tom, as I'm considering "making the leap" soon.
Jeff
Track work looks great Tom, ill be watching.
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on April 17, 2016, 11:59:00 AM
I'll be very interested in your techniques/results with the backdrops, Tom, as I'm considering "making the leap" soon.
Jeff
Jeff,
Thanks for checking in. I hope to have an update this afternoon but I need to do a few things first. I'm extremely pleased with how the photo backdrop turned out. Joey is the consummate professional when doing the photos. Note: I'm using consummate as an adjective and not a verb. 8) 8) 8)
He's very easy to work with and constantly kept me updated on each step of the process. I'm one happy camper.
Tom ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: Twopoint2 on April 17, 2016, 12:03:11 PM
Track work looks great Tom, ill be watching.
Jim,
Thank you, very much appreciated. It's always good to know the work looks acceptable to others.
Tom ;D
Joey sent the photo backdrops in two large tubes.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416124448.jpeg)
Tube 1 was for the "A or East side" and tube "B or the West side".
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416124501.jpeg)
More in a few.
I opened tube 1 to check the backdrop photos. Inside, I also found a list of the corresponding photo backdrops.
The list marks the location of the backdrop on the walls.
I also want to mention that Joey separated each set of photos with paper. This was great and let me removed the photos one at a time.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416124359.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416124359.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416153036.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416153036.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416124323.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416124323.jpeg)
Here is a look at two of the backdrop photos.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416124518.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416124518.jpeg)
I purchased a "clean" squeegee and a can of Super 77 spray adhesive from Ace Hardware.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416153053.jpeg)
I was gong to cut the red handle in half when I realized the handle actually unscrews from the squeegee.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416153108.jpeg)
I placed section A7 up against the wall for a look see.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416153139.jpeg)
The road location was a perfect fit.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416153122.jpeg)
Time to put up a photo backdrop from Trackside Scenery.
I watched Joey's Youtube videos on how best to install the backdrops. Since this was the first time I ever used actual photo backdrops, I was a little bit intimidated to get started. But get started I did.
I sprayed the adhesive on the Masonite backdrop. I very carefully aligned the edge of the photo to the right edge and slowly rolled it out. As I did, I used the squeegee to flatten the photo on the Masonite.
Every thing went as planned and it helped to watch Joey's video first.
Here is the Judge's Atlantic and Southern, old #7, with a new paint job in front of the newly and first installed backdrop.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416153201.jpeg)
That's a whole lot of scenery in two tubes. Game on!!
John
I installed two other short sections. The double bridge and the one to the right. Here is an overall look at the newly installed backdrops on the Atlantic and Southern RR.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416153216.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416153231.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170416153247.jpeg)
The three sections took me a little over an hour. I was careful to get these aligned properly so the rest of the sections will go just as smoothly.
Quote from: Cuse on April 17, 2016, 04:05:01 PM
That's a whole lot of scenery in two tubes. Game on!!
John
John,
Game on for sure. I'm finished for the day but will do more during the week. I appreciate you checking in.
Tom ;D
Evening Tom,
Wow what a difference the backdrop makes; really adds a tremendous amount of depth to the scenes and will look even better once you have the foreground scenes done as well.
Excellent, and I will continue to follow along with your A&S rebuild, albeit lurking most of the time but enjoying your developments and thanks for sharing your exploits,
All the best,
--Paul
Tom,
Trying to learn......
In the first two photos above, is there a reason you didn't "cove" or put a piece of Masonite or styrene in the corner bent to match the radius of the curve of the tracks in front of the corner?
I certainly AM NO trying to be critical! I'm trying to understand your thought/design process.
Thanks.
WOW, looks great Tom!. I need to get down there and see it in person.
Bill
It looks great Tom, really like the 3D effect.
Just couldn't wait could ya..... ;D
Tom,
The new backdrop looks great!
Doug
Tom,
Like I was telling Frank the other day, wholly cow batman! Everything looks really awesome. This is turning out to be another one of those-"this is the way you want to do it" layouts! Great looking backdrops from Joey, it's looks good Tom. Can't say enough. Have fun boss! Thanx Thom...
Quote from: PaulS on April 17, 2016, 07:29:33 PM
Evening Tom,
Wow what a difference the backdrop makes; really adds a tremendous amount of depth to the scenes and will look even better once you have the foreground scenes done as well.
Excellent, and I will continue to follow along with your A&S rebuild, albeit lurking most of the time but enjoying your developments and thanks for sharing your exploits,
All the best,
--Paul
Paul,
I'm very pleased with the backdrops. Joey did an excellent job on the printing. They do add a sense of depth to the layout and will look even better with some supporting foreground scenery.
Thanks for checking in.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on April 17, 2016, 07:31:01 PM
Tom,
Trying to learn......
In the first two photos above, is there a reason you didn't "cove" or put a piece of Masonite or styrene in the corner bent to match the radius of the curve of the tracks in front of the corner?
I certainly AM NO trying to be critical! I'm trying to understand your thought/design process.
Thanks.
Chip,
Great question my friend. And, please be critical, this is how we all learn. I've never been offended by any comments I've received.
The corners are that way by design. By curving the backdrops, I'd loose about 3-4 feet of actual real estate for some foreground scenery. Curving the backdrop would have looked really good but but I think you'll like what I have in mind for that area. You'll have to wait a month or so first.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on April 18, 2016, 03:38:04 AM
WOW, looks great Tom!. I need to get down there and see it in person.
Bill
Bill,
Thanks Butty, come on down. We'll have some lunch at the Bones while you are here.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ak-milw on April 18, 2016, 07:29:50 AM
It looks great Tom, really like the 3D effect.
Andy,
Thanks, much appreciated. I love the effect as well. These are really nice photo backdrops.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on April 18, 2016, 08:17:08 AM
Just couldn't wait could ya..... ;D
Greg,
Thanks, but since you thought the samples were actual backdrops, I'll say these are actually samples! ;D ;D ;D ;D
I tried to wait but couldn't. The Judge thought I'd be doing the backdrops yesterday as well. I was going to wait until today but well, you see I couldn't.
Tom 8)
Quote from: Onewolf on April 18, 2016, 08:50:00 AM
Tom,
The new backdrop looks great!
Doug
Doug,
Thanks, much appreciated. I'm very pleased with the results.
Also, I enjoyed our visit last Saturday. I got your PM and will get you a head count.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on April 18, 2016, 08:58:55 AM
Tom,
Like I was telling Frank the other day, wholly cow batman! Everything looks really awesome. This is turning out to be another one of those-"this is the way you want to do it" layouts! Great looking backdrops from Joey, it's looks good Tom. Can't say enough. Have fun boss! Thanx Thom...
Thom,
Hey, much appreciated. Joey did a superior job on the photo backdrops and they really look fantastic in virtual reality. For those living in Longwood it means they look good in person.
I thank you for the kind words and thanks for checking in.
Tom ;D
What can I say that hasn't already been said about the backdrops. They look fantastic. When the foreground scenery is in place it's going to be fantastic! :o :o :o I can't wait to see them. :D :D :D
Tom,
I'm with Bob, awesome pics of the backdrop. Are you done yet? More pictures this afternoon please.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: ReadingBob on April 18, 2016, 10:32:25 AM
What can I say that hasn't already been said about the backdrops. They look fantastic. When the foreground scenery is in place it's going to be fantastic! :o :o :o I can't wait to see them. :D :D :D
Bob,
Thanks for the support on the backdrops. All the credit goes to Joey Ricard and his fantastic photo skills with the backdrops.
Tom ;D
Frank,
Thanks for checking in and commenting on the backdrops. They are wonderful and look great in person.
Hopefully, I'll have a picture or two this afternoon.
Tom ;D
Okay, here goes. I had a college poly sci prof who came in one day and said, "Okay, I have a lot to cover today so pay attention." Yes, I'm saying the same thing here.
I'm also going Hollywood on the thread for the next several posts. I'm calling it "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly".
I'll start with the good.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416150422.jpeg)
The trees look 3D and how cool is the stream/river? Thank you Joey Ricard! ;D ;D ;D
Continued in a few.
Now for the bad. The Masonite shifted on me as it dried. Remember I used Loctite glue to attach the Masonite to the wall so there is no fixing it without a major overhaul of the Masonite. That ain't happening. Here is the shift.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416150440.jpeg)
This almost ruined my day but then I went into "save your butt" mode.
My concern was to make sure the vertical edge of the photo backdrop stayed level or perpendicular to the base line.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416150454.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416150730.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
In the next photo you can see the photo backdrop is level. However, If I continued this line, the backdrop will be off two inches from the base line. In other words, the further I go to the left the higher the photo backdrop will go.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416150752.jpeg)
And, finally here is The Ugly! In order to maintain a level photo backdrop to the base line, I'll need to make an adjustment to the next 96" section of the backdrop.
Oh yes, The Ugly.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416150806.jpeg)
I need to drop the photo down 3/8" and maintain the level from here. Keep in mind Joey makes the backdrops to fit flush with each other on each end. This won't happen here.
NOTE: This is a problem with the Indian and not the bow and arrow. Joey isn't responsible for any of this. My bad all the way. However, I did fix the problem.
If there is any good news from this, my blunder, it will be that the top of the sky really can't be seen from the isle and hidden from the eyes of curious visitors.
Continued in a few.
I went ahead and glued the backdrop in place 3/8" lower than the other one. You can see in the next photo by dropping it 3/8" the trees don't line up. I also had to overlap it a fraction as the vertical on the left photo didn't match the vertical on the right.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416150822.jpeg)
In the grand skeem of things, this is but a little bump in the scenery. I'll either place a water tank in front of the trees or cover it with a building flat.
In the next photo, you can see the difference at the bottom right of the base line. Dropping the scenery backdrop the 3/8" gets me back on line.
On a side note, look how fantastic Joey's backdrop looks in the photo below. The trees just pop right out at ya!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416150837.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Here is a look at the 3/8" lowered backdrop section.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416151342.jpeg)
And, it's level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416150909.jpeg)
Time for a Diet Pepsi and or water break.
More later this afternoon.
Two of the sections of the West wall were 8' in length. I took my time and worked 1 ft. at a time. I sprayed and little, squeegeed a little and so on until the 8' section was finished.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416150926.jpeg)
Here's how the second 8' section looks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416150854.jpeg)
See what I meant by the back drop going up as I moved to the left. This is only 1/2 inch compared to the 2 1/2" I was originally looking at. This is the corner section.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416150943.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I'm using 1" blue foam to cover the difference in the base line and the backdrop.
BEFORE:
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416151240.jpeg)
AFTER:
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416151255.jpeg)
The blue foam will have some foreground trees and scenery to cover Tom's shifted Masonite.
Continued in a few.
I can say with satisfaction I have now finished the West second level side of the layout with the photo backdrops.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416151327.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416151342.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416151400.jpeg)
All told time wise it took me about three hours to add the photo backdrop.
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416151416.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416151430.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416151448.jpeg)
I must have a famous layout as I have a Danny Raymond truck on the layout. 8)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180416151505.jpeg)
It's probably more like, I have one of the famous Raymo trucks on my layout. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Un-freaking believable!
Look out Mother Nature, there's a new player in town!
I'll second that. I gotta get me some of that! :)
Jeff
Quote from: BandOGuy on April 18, 2016, 05:22:42 PM
Un-freaking believable!
Look out Mother Nature, there's a new player in town!
Chip,
Thanks for stopping by. Mother Nature and Joey Ricard, what a dynamic duo. Of course, let's not forget Mrs. J. Ricard. 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on April 18, 2016, 05:38:19 PM
I'll second that. I gotta get me some of that! :)
Jeff
Jeff,
Thanks for the support. Go get you some, the backdrops are almost 3D with being 3D!
Tom ;D
Beautiful backdrops Tom, they add so much to the layout.
Quote from: Janbouli on April 18, 2016, 06:13:07 PM
Beautiful backdrops Tom, they add so much to the layout.
Jan,
Thanks for the kind words, I only installed them. Joey Ricard made them. It really give the layout a much better look and I can't wait to get started on the supporting scenery.
Tom ;D
Tom you must be very pleased with how this is coming out (including the nice save !!) and how much depth this is added to the layout already ... Awesome stuff !!
And cudos to Joey for his artwork on pulling these together for you.
Have fun,
--Paul
Awesome.........Just one concern----Are you going to do a Subway background on the lower level for us vertically challenged people ?
Jim
Tom,
that is looking freaking awesome. A total new look for the layout.
Regards,Chris
Quote from: PaulS on April 18, 2016, 06:53:25 PM
Tom you must be very pleased with how this is coming out (including the nice save !!) and how much depth this is added to the layout already ... Awesome stuff !!
And cudos to Joey for his artwork on pulling these together for you.
Have fun,
--Paul
Paul,
I'm very pleased with the backdrops. Once the scenery is added and with some flats in front it will be wonderful.
Joey did a fantastic job on the photos. I very fortunate to have his work on the layout.
Thanks for checking in.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on April 18, 2016, 08:36:21 PM
Awesome.........Just one concern----Are you going to do a Subway background on the lower level for us vertically challenged people ?
Jim
Jim,
Thanks for stopping by and for the support. To answer your question, NO, no subway on the lower level. Even for you vertically challenged folks. Wait, the subway idea may have some merit.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on April 19, 2016, 02:57:33 AM
Tom,
that is looking freaking awesome. A total new look for the layout.
Regards,Chris
Chris,
Thanks for the kind words of support on the photo backdrops. They changed the entire look of the layout and trains.
Tom ;D
This morning I started to play with some of the blue foam for a scenery base. I'll start in this corner.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190416132409.jpeg)
I previously glued two 1" pieces together as I couldn't find any of the 2" pink foam. You may have seen this piece of foam from other shots of the layout. It also came off the old layout. I think I glued them together 3 years ago. Anyway, I cut it to fit this area.
I'm wanting a look of some elevated real estate in this corner. I'm planning on an old dirt road that goes up from the track and down in the distance. I'll have a ditch on each side with a dirt side road leading to one or two old houses on the hill.
I started by drawing the lines for the initial cut.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190416132424.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I cut out the road area and sanded the sides to see how it would possibly look.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190416132438.jpeg)
I widened the road area by removing more of the foam.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190416132452.jpeg)
When I started cutting and sanding the foam, I realized I would have been better off to have just glued the top piece on the bottom as added pieces.
More in a few.
Oh, do the cutting outside as it does create a bit of a mess.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190416132508.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190416132605.jpeg)
Fast forward and here is how it looks after an hour of sanding and carving.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190416132620.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190416132546.jpeg)
The Campbell Scale Models Abandoned house is just way out of scale for the corner. I'll need to scratch build the houses.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190416132635.jpeg)
Tom,
Great progress photos, keep them coming !
Quote from: tom.boyd.125 on April 20, 2016, 03:52:35 AM
Tom,
Great progress photos, keep them coming !
Tom,
Thank you and thanks for following along. I have a few more for you.
Tom ;D
Over the past ten months, the Judge and I have been having the TCS WOW sound decoders installed in the brass locos.
In the past I've just test run the loco and put it in the display case for later use. I don't want brass locos sitting around the layout as I continue work on it. I've noticed that when I did run a loco, a few of the decoders were defective and needed to be returned. This has been a major pain in the rear.
The decision was made to put all the brass with WOW sound decoders on the layout and let them just idle for a few days during the time the DCC system was on.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230416173348.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230416173403.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The locos were idle, sound on but not moving, for a few days. Out of all these, I found two that needed to be adjusted, one headlight failed and one had no short whistle.
All the above can be fixed without replacing the decoders which is a pain in the rear. Did I mention the pain in the rear? Yes, I did and it is.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230416173418.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230416173433.jpeg)
Not a stinky diesel in sight!!
dave
Quote from: deemery on April 23, 2016, 07:00:00 PM
Not a stinky diesel in sight!!
dave
How do you know , maybe they're Volkswagens in disguise ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: deemery on April 23, 2016, 07:00:00 PM
Not a stinky diesel in sight!!
dave
Dave and Jan,
Thanks for following along, much appreciated. All the stinky diesels were on the storage tracks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416081407.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416081442.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416081459.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416081512.jpeg)
Not Storage Tracks......Think "SUBWAY" ;) ;) ;) ;)
Jim
Tom
Great pictures! I copied a couple of them and put them in my "Honey I'm really not out of control file" - for possible future S&S RR board meetings". The layout is really looking great!
Hiding the diesels is a good idea :-)
dave
Quote from: jimmillho on April 24, 2016, 11:30:50 AM
Not Storage Tracks......Think "SUBWAY" ;) ;) ;) ;)
Jim
Butty Jim,
Yes, it certainly looks they are in the subway. Maybe I should have thought of that and installed some columns in the "Subway" during construction.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on April 24, 2016, 12:01:18 PM
Tom
Great pictures! I copied a couple of them and put them in my "Honey I'm really not out of control file" - for possible future S&S RR board meetings". The layout is really looking great!
John,
Thanks, much appreciated. The locos are now back in the display cases and safe from any mishaps during future construction.
Tom ;D
Quote from: deemery on April 24, 2016, 03:11:16 PM
Hiding the diesels is a good idea :-)
dave
Dave,
Prior to the DCC craze, I referred to diesels as "diseaseils". Now I have more than I need to count!
Thanks for the comments, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
I decided to start the scenery at the double bridge area. First I needed to fix a few things. When I installed the photo backdrops, I cut away some of the real estate to get the photo in.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416154801.jpeg)
I cut a piece of construction paper and glued it in place against the backdrop.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416155230.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I also filled in the gaps between the layout and fascia.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416155217.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416155245.jpeg)
I used the hot glue gun to fill in the and seal the bottom of the backdrop and the slope.
I then sealed the paper with full strength Elmer's White Glue. When dry, I'll add the ground goop and set the rivers edge.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416155302.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416155319.jpeg)
Tom,
You don't want to call that area "down below", "Subway".
Knowing what a stickler you are for detail, you'd drive yourself nuts lettering and posting all the little "Mind The Gap" signs.
Oh. Wait. That's for 00 gauge and you're doing HO.
Forget it. I never said anything.
PS. Maybe you should call the SD area Australia: down under and forgotten by all accept those that live there. 8)
Quote from: BandOGuy on April 24, 2016, 04:23:12 PM
Tom,
You don't want to call that area "down below", "Subway".
Knowing what a stickler you are for detail, you'd drive yourself nuts lettering and posting all the little "Mind The Gap" signs.
Oh. Wait. That's for 00 gauge and you're doing HO.
Forget it. I never said anything.
PS. Maybe you should call the SD area Australia: down under and forgotten by all accept those that live there. 8)
Chip,
You are a funny guy. ;D ;D ;D I think I'll just stick with the "lower level staging area". It sounds better and I don't feel the need to install any support columns.
Bagman is down under and I wouldn't want to offend him by installing the subway down under. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Good idea, besides if you were to really make it "down under", the trains would have to hang down from underneath the shelves....and that would be hard to do keeping them on (under) the tracks....unless you had something like the old Lionel "magne traction".
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tandem-associates.com%2Flionel%2Fpictures%2Facc310_ident_magnetraction.jpg&hash=6ff9bcfac6399395234f0995d90de99b79b432d1)
Donato,
Ah, the Lionel Magne-Traction.
It works on HO as well.
Tom
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416200411.jpeg)
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 24, 2016, 08:05:55 PM
Donato,
Ah, the Lionel Magne-Traction.
It works on HO as well.
Tom
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416200411.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416200411.jpeg)
Wow - Tom what a great way to utilize space.
Quote from: S&S RR on April 24, 2016, 08:17:56 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 24, 2016, 08:05:55 PM
Donato,
Ah, the Lionel Magne-Traction.
It works on HO as well.
Tom
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416200411.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416200411.jpeg)
Wow - Tom what a great way to utilize space.
Uh, does this mean you have to re-do the ovalix?
Tom,
Only thing that came to mind after reviewing the last photo was an old song by The Yardbirds - Over, Under, Sideways, Down.... :D
Tommy
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 24, 2016, 08:05:55 PM
Donato,
Ah, the Lionel Magne-Traction.
It works on HO as well.
Tom
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416200411.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240416200411.jpeg)
Tom's modeling Australian railroads now?
dave
John, Chip, Tom and Dave,
Thanks for checking in on the upside down photo. Now, back to the layout build. 8) 8)
Tom ;D ;D ;D
Today I spent a few hours on the layout. The glue on the slope under the double bridge dried over night and now I'm working on building up the river bank under the bridges.
Good friends and members in good standing of the Saturday Butty Group, Bill and Kris Cutler (JennsyJ1), gave me some Fusion Fiber from True Scene Modeling. Bill and Kris are the owners of the Pennsy layout I did a photo thread on a year back.
http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=313.0
The scenery on their Pennsy is stunning and a great majority of the ground cover base is this material. Over the past year I've been following along with what Kris has been doing with the "fusion fiber". I've asked many questions of Bill and Kris about the material. Well, today I busted my cherry and started the scenery process on the A&S RR using fusion fiber as a base.
And, I do want to say this product was introduced on the old forum and I was less than impressed. However, I'd be a bit mendacious if I told you I wasn't impressed with what Bill and Kris have done using it.
www.truescene.com
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250416181115.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
In the photo above, you can see they gave me a baggie of green fusion fiber and a bag of white. The green was from the earlier material True Scene sold. The white is how it comes now.
The instructions say that any water base acrylic, craft or Tempera paint can be used to color the fiber. I used Woodland Scenics Earth Undercoat #C1229 to color mine.
I mixed, per the instructions, 50/50 warm water and the fiber. I added the Earth color prior to adding the fiber. I stirred and got a putrid looking brownish green color. Or is it a greenish brown?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250416181135.jpeg)
I let it sit for about 30 minutes and it looked like ABC stuff. For you young folks, ABC is "Already Been Chewed" and refused.
Continued in a few.
The rest is pretty simple. I spread it on the paper scenery following my river bank line. It is very easy to use and also very slippery when wet. No, Chip, I didn't need to post a "Slippery When Wet" sign.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250416181148.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250416181204.jpeg)
Left river bank finished.
More in a few. Ya'll know what time it is!
Okay,
I have the very cold Diet Pepsi so I can continue.
The rest of the fusion fiber application went just as smooth. I applied it to the right side and up the bank.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250416181220.jpeg)
Here is a water level look at the river bank now that the fiber has been added. It gives the rivers edge some depth.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250416181234.jpeg)
And hear is how it will look with the roadway bridge in place. Keep in mind, I have several other steps to make this scene look, hopefully, as good as Bill and Kris' scenery.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250416181248.jpeg)
Tom
Looking good Mr. Tom! You will get even more creative as you go along. The backdrop is beautiful. When you get the rocks and vegetation added it will be a great scene. Can't wait to see it completed.
Bill & Kris
Looks very natural Tom, I take it, it only looks shiney because it is still wet.
The banks are looking good Tom.
I think I walked under that bridge a long tine ago. 8) 8) 8) 8)
Jim
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on April 25, 2016, 07:35:34 PM
Looking good Mr. Tom! You will get even more creative as you go along. The backdrop is beautiful. When you get the rocks and vegetation added it will be a great scene. Can't wait to see it completed.
Bill & Kris
Bill & Kris,
Thanks SBG's, much appreciated. I really like the Fusion Fiber stuff. I ordered three more lbs. of the stuff.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on April 26, 2016, 09:03:33 AM
The banks are looking good Tom.
Greg,
Thanks very much. I appreciate you checking in. I'm getting very close to doing some real scenery on the A&S RR.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on April 26, 2016, 10:33:05 AM
I think I walked under that bridge a long tine ago. 8) 8) 8) 8)
Jim
Jim,
As you know when I was on the Midnight shift, we routinely found at least 2-4 felons a night under bridges like this one. Were you one of the ones we nabbed? ;D ;D ;D ;D
Just kidding, I know you were home repairing trains.
Tom 8)
Yesterday and this morning I was able to get more of the Fusion Fiber ground base down. When it dries, it will be much darker.
I also added the other two smaller bridge supports for the roadway overpass.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140516181706.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140516181720.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140516181740.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140516181757.jpeg)
This new application will take a few days to dry. When dry, I'll start on the river banks and water. That promises to me a lot of fun.
Tom
You are back moving right along. Looks good.
Tom,
This will be a nice looking scene ! ;)
Tommy
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 14, 2016, 06:15:18 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on April 26, 2016, 10:33:05 AM
I think I walked under that bridge a long tine ago. 8) 8) 8) 8)
Jim
Jim,
As you know when I was on the Midnight shift, we routinely found at least 2-4 felons a night under bridges like this one. Were you on of the ones we nabbed? ;D ;D ;D ;D
Just kidding, I know you were home repairing trains.
Tom 8)
Fishing, Officer, I was just Fishing. :o :o :o :o
Jim
Quote from: S&S RR on May 14, 2016, 07:35:13 PM
Tom
You are back moving right along. Looks good.
John,
Thank you and thanks for stopping by. This layout build is like the Wheels of Justice. They are slow, but they do turn! ;D ;D
Tom
Quote from: tom.boyd.125 on May 15, 2016, 01:11:23 AM
Tom,
This will be a nice looking scene ! ;)
Tommy
Tommy,
Thanks very much. I can't wait to get some actual scenery down in this area.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on May 15, 2016, 11:55:27 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 14, 2016, 06:15:18 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on April 26, 2016, 10:33:05 AM
I think I walked under that bridge a long tine ago. 8) 8) 8) 8)
Jim
Jim,
As you know when I was on the Midnight shift, we routinely found at least 2-4 felons a night under bridges like this one. Were you on of the ones we nabbed? ;D ;D ;D ;D
Just kidding, I know you were home repairing trains.
Tom 8)
Fishing, Officer, I was just Fishing. :o :o :o :o
Jim
Yea buddy sure. Get your bag and blanket, The County Jail has reserved a bunk just for you! Oh, leave the fishing pole, you won't need it.
LT.
I was able to get a little more done on the diesel repair building, er, lubritorium.
I used Evergreen Scale Models .060" (1.5mm) thick Sheet Styrene for the floor.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230516173743.jpeg)
I placed the edge against the track and marked where the cut needed to be made.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230516173756.jpeg)
More in a few.
After 30 minutes or so, I had the floor pieces cut and it place. I still need to scribe some concrete expansion lines in and then it will be painted a concrete color.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230516173812.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230516173825.jpeg)
Tomorrow evening I'll cover the roof installation.
Tom ;D
I had a little of the Fusion Fiber left over so I started to build the banks on the Tahope River.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260516185917.jpeg)
I just remembered I need to add the fascia prior to going any further on this side.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260516185932.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Back to the double bridge area. These are the colors I chose to simulate the color of the water. These are Golden Brand, Fluid Acrylics.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260516185947.jpeg)
I started by coloring the banks with the Raw Umber.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260516190002.jpeg)
I blended a few of the colors and painted the river bottom.
NOTE: The actual color of the river bottom is much much darker than the photo shows. Keep in mind this is only the first of many coats to be blended.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260516190021.jpeg)
I then added a few stones to the banks and filled in around the stones with Medium Earth from Scenics Express.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260516190036.jpeg)
I decided to let all this dry prior to adding more.
Tom,
That is really cool the way you have the river blending into the backdrop.
Tom
This is going to be a great scene. I love scenes with depth.
Another great tutorial. Keep it up. Phil
Up a lazy river.........
Jim
Quote from: jimmillho on May 27, 2016, 01:42:21 PM
Up a lazy river.........
Jim
by the old mill run.....
Looking good Tom, Can't wait to see it finished. Plus what everyone else has said!!
Bill
Coming along nicely Tom. I love to see scenery on your layout again.
John
Tom
I hope your feeling better - time in the layout room is the only pain management system that works for me.
Take care,
Quote from: sdrees on May 26, 2016, 07:58:13 PM
Tom,
That is really cool the way you have the river blending into the backdrop.
Steve,
The river scene worked out great. Thanks for stopping by.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on May 26, 2016, 08:57:12 PM
Tom
This is going to be a great scene. I love scenes with depth.
John,
Thanks, I'm really looking forward to having this scene finished in the next week. I need to keep moving.
Tom ;D
Quote from: KCS Trains on May 27, 2016, 11:16:22 AM
Another great tutorial. Keep it up. Phil
Phil,
Thank you, much appreciated. I'm happy you are getting something out of the build.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on May 27, 2016, 01:42:21 PM
Up a lazy river.........
Jim
Jim,
In this case it will be down the lazy river. Something I can't afford to be for the next 14 months.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 27, 2016, 03:12:17 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on May 27, 2016, 01:42:21 PM
Up a lazy river.........
Jim
by the old mill run.....
Greg,
You and Jimbo have to much time on your hands.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on May 27, 2016, 04:06:58 PM
Looking good Tom, Can't wait to see it finished. Plus what everyone else has said!!
Bill
Bill,
Thanks very much, I appreciate you stopping by. I hope to have it finished within the week.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on May 28, 2016, 07:40:40 AM
Coming along nicely Tom. I love to see scenery on your layout again.
John
John,
I thank you for stopping by and checking in. I need to get more scenery on the layout. It's been 2.5 yrs. since I removed the old layout.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on May 28, 2016, 09:19:42 AM
Tom
I hope your feeling better - time in the layout room is the only pain management system that works for me.
Take care,
John,
Thanks for checking in. I feel much better now but around lunch time today I was wondering if I would have the weekend to work on the layout. I have some great pain meds.
Tom ;D
Pain Meds? What ever happen to the door knob and string?
Quote from: tct855 on May 28, 2016, 03:33:09 PM
Pain Meds? What ever happen to the door knob and string?
The door knob and string still work. It's the after the door knob and string the meds are for. 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
I doubt anything will be level or straight on the layout with the pain meds. The scenery will look like something by Andy Warhol as well. ;D
Jeff
P.S. No power nor hand tools (including xactos) while on the pain meds. :o
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on May 28, 2016, 06:02:24 PM
I doubt anything will be level or straight on the layout with the pain meds. The scenery will look like something by Andy Warhol as well. ;D
Jeff
P.S. No power nor hand tools (including xactos) while on the pain meds. :o
I was quite the good boy yesterday, all I did was lurk on the forum and watch college baseball most of the day. Today; however, I'm not on any meds. ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Way to go Tom.....just say no to the drugs and you'll be able to get back in the shed and remember what you need to do! ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 29, 2016, 09:36:21 AM
Way to go Tom.....just say no to the drugs and you'll be able to get back in the shed and remember what you need to do! ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
The meds are saved for another time but for now, I'm back in the saddle.
Tom ;D
Tom,
In the future, you should go see an Australian dentist for any head pain. Thanx Thom...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KnB7qx3LKIw
The layout is looking terrific Tom. I need to swing on by one of the these days and check it out in person. I love the way the foreground scenery is blending in with those fantastic looking backdrops you got. :D
Quote from: tct855 on May 29, 2016, 10:06:08 AM
Tom,
In the future, you should go see an Australian dentist for any head pain. Thanx Thom...
Thom,
I do admit to a little craziness, but I'm not certified like the guy in the beer commercial.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on May 29, 2016, 10:13:30 AM
The layout is looking terrific Tom. I need to swing on by one of the these days and check it out in person. I love the way the foreground scenery is blending in with those fantastic looking backdrops you got. :D
Bob,
Thanks very much, I appreciate your support. I'm working in the double bridge and will have an update after this post to you. Blending the scenery to Joey's photo backdrops is easy.
Come on by anytime as I still have the siding we bought from George.
Tom ;D
I added a little more dirt to the river banks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260516190107.jpeg)
I wet the dirt with matte medium and moved on to the upper slopes.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260516190122.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I painted Elmer's White glue on the slopes and spread some Woodland Scenics Earth on the glue.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260516190204.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260516190219.jpeg)
After repeating the process on the right side, I let the glue dry for a day.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260516190251.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260516190238.jpeg)
Once the earth glued to the base, I used a soft brush to sweep up the excess.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140403.jpeg)
Here is what the slope looks like with all the excess earth up/removed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140420.jpeg)
More in a few.
Working from the wall out, I then added some green ground cover.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140438.jpeg)
To give it a little more texture, I added some clump ground cover to first layer of green cover.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140500.jpeg)
I then added some dark green clump foliage for the third layer.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140516.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Once satisfied with the look, I used the matte medium to glue the foliage in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140530.jpeg)
I then very lightly sprinkled on some earth color of ground cover and applied more matte medium.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140544.jpeg)
I then added a little lighter green/yellow ground cover to the top of the wet matte medium.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140558.jpeg)
Break time, and certainly time for a Diet Pepsi.
I then blended the foreground scenery with the photo by adding a couple of trees and some additional clump foliage.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140621.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140621.jpeg)
I need to put something here at the bottom. I'll think about it for a few hours.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140635.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140635.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140649.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140649.jpeg)
More in a few.
I applied another coat of matte medium to the upper slope area and added some medium course dirt from Scenic Express.
I used a Dixie Cup to apply the dirt. The dirt will represent the area under the bridge where nothing grows.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140721.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140734.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I then added a little green turf down the middle to represent where the grass grows from the little amount of sun that gets to the area between the two bridges.
You can also see where the matte medium is starting to dry.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140752.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140811.jpeg)
I'd like to add here that you shouldn't be concerned how your scenery looks at this stage. It only matters what it looks like when finished.
To be continued later this afternoon.
Okay, this space can handle a tree.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140829.jpeg)
I have a few hundred to choose from. The good thing about removing an old layout is that you have plenty of stuff to choose from for the new layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140843.jpeg)
I added scenery to the left side as well.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140900.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Again, I tried to blend the scenery in the foreground with the backdrop background.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140915.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140930.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516140955.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516141011.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516141027.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516141041.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516141054.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516141109.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516141127.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516141142.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516141156.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516141211.jpeg)
Now, I need to get the water in the river.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516141239.jpeg)
But first I need to clean up all the scenery mess.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290516141226.jpeg)
I just realized I reached the 1000 picture mark for the thread.
Tom ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Very impressive Tom.
What a scene Tom , absolutely fantastic. But there is one small thing that bothers me , maybe yourself too , the shadows of the bridge on the backdrop. I don't have a ready solution , but maybe some here have suggestions, or maybe it isn't that noticeable in real life.
Wonderful execution Tom....as always....
Tom:
All I can say is WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The eye level photos especially look very real. Keep up the fantastic work.
Karl
Quote from: jrmueller on May 29, 2016, 06:11:05 PM
Very impressive Tom.
Jim,
Thank you very much, I really appreciate you posting your thoughts.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on May 29, 2016, 06:30:34 PM
What a scene Tom , absolutely fantastic. But there is one small thing that bothers me , maybe yourself too , the shadows of the bridge on the backdrop. I don't have a ready solution , but maybe some here have suggestions, or maybe it isn't that noticeable in real life.
Jan,
Thanks, much appreciated. Yes, there is a shadow but the sun constantly shines from the opposite direction casting the shadow. And, actually with both bridges in place it doesn't show to a great extent.
I'll blame this one on the constant sun from the East. ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on May 30, 2016, 09:56:35 AM
Wonderful execution Tom....as always....
Donato,
Thanks, I think. Does that mean I killed it, or as in, I nailed it? LOL! I appreciate you checking in.
Tom ;D
Quote from: postalkarl on May 30, 2016, 03:47:26 PM
Tom:
All I can say is WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The eye level photos especially look very real. Keep up the fantastic work.
Karl
Karl,
Thanks very much, I appreciate you posting a comment. The eye level is great against Joey's photo backdrops.
I have more eye level coming within the next hour.
Tom ;D
I added a little scenery to the left of the double bridges and in front of the photo backdrop. I started by painting full strength Elmer's White Glue on the surface. This section is about 19 inches long.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516170840.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516170855.jpeg)
I then dumped some Woodland Scenics Earth color turf on the glue. I used a soft brush to spread the turf across the glue.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516170911.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516170929.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
After about an hour, I started using other scenery material to layer the grasses and shrubs.
I then added some trees and applied a top coat of matte medium to glue it all in place.
This is how it looked this morning.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516170947.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171002.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171035.jpeg)
More in a few.
The Babe and I went to Lowe's and got more layout material. On the way back we passed Danny Raymond (Raymo) taking a load of Comfort Coal to town of Tahope.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171110.jpeg)
About that time a Seaboard freight train came by and stopped. I think they were surprised to see trees and grass on the plywood prairie. The Babe and I got out to way our greeting to the Engineer. I think it was the Judge in the cab of #4031.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171124.jpeg)
We were just about ready to get back in the car when Raymo turned up again.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171137.jpeg)
I had no trouble blending the scenery. When you have some of Joey Ricard's fantastic photo backdrops, it makes scenery easier still to add.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171151.jpeg)
Tom,
Awesome work my friend. I had to go back a couple of times to see what you added. It is really blending nicely. At this rate you should be done by Christmas. Ho-Ho, I didn't say which Christmas. All kidding aside, this is looking marvelous. Keep up the great work.
I do see the seam in the last picture. How about a nice weeping willow to cover it. A pine would also work great. And I like your "Woodie" . Wagon, that is!
Frank / Erieman
Fantastic. You make it look so easy. I'm amazed at how the trees on the backdrop look 3D in the pictures from above.
Jeff
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 30, 2016, 05:39:10 PM
The Babe and I went to Lowe's and got more layout material. On the way back we passed Danny Raymond (Raymo) taking a load of Comfort Coal to town of Tahope.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171110.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171110.jpeg)
About that time a Seaboard freight train came by and stopped. I think they were surprised to see trees and grass on the plywood prairie. The Babe and I got out to way our greeting to the Engineer. I think it was the Judge in the cab of #4031.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171124.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171124.jpeg)
We were just about ready to get back in the car when Raymo turned up again.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171137.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171137.jpeg)
Tom, your layout really helps the appearance of my vehicles. ;D
Hi Tom, you made fantastic progress on that fine scenery work. All is coming together very nice.
Love that scene.
Regards,Chris
I had a great visit with ACL Tom yesterday morning. He sure has been moving along with the layout rebuild, lots going on. I know one thing for sure, the saying about pictures do not give a subject justice is very true in this case. The river and bridge area really looks great, and he is not even completed this area!
Get that plywood cut Tom, before the afternoon rains show up.
Bill
Quote from: Erieman on May 30, 2016, 06:46:08 PM
Tom,
Awesome work my friend. I had to go back a couple of times to see what you added. It is really blending nicely. At this rate you should be done by Christmas. Ho-Ho, I didn't say which Christmas. All kidding aside, this is looking marvelous. Keep up the great work.
I do see the seam in the last picture. How about a nice weeping willow to cover it. A pine would also work great. And I like your "Woodie" . Wagon, that is!
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks, very much appreciated. I certainly would like to be done by Christmas, we'll see. This Christmas anyway!
I didn't have a weeping willow but I did add another few trees to the area and one to cover the seem.
Hope you are having a wonderful time in New York.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on May 30, 2016, 06:49:13 PM
Fantastic. You make it look so easy. I'm amazed at how the trees on the backdrop look 3D in the pictures from above.
Jeff
Jeff,
Thank you, I appreciate your kind words. Actually, it is easy. The backdrop makes all the difference and the foreground trees really make it look 3D. Having Joey Ricard, www.tracksidescenery.com (http://www.tracksidescenery.com), do the photo backdrop has made all the difference in the look of the layout. Best scenery decision I've ever made.
Tom ;D
Raymo,
Thank you for the kind words on the layout. I think you got it all wrong though, your vehicles make my layout look much better.
Thank you sir.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on June 01, 2016, 09:04:32 AM
Hi Tom, you made fantastic progress on that fine scenery work. All is coming together very nice.
Love that scene.
Regards,Chris
Chris,
I really appreciate you stopping by for a look see. Your kind words will keep me going on more, hopefully, fine scenery.
The scene is great. Raymo's vehicles make it look great.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on June 01, 2016, 04:06:50 PM
I had a great visit with ACL Tom yesterday morning. He sure has been moving along with the layout rebuild, lots going on. I know one thing for sure, the saying about pictures do not give a subject justice is very true in this case. The river and bridge area really looks great, and he is not even completed this area!
Get that plywood cut Tom, before the afternoon rains show up.
Bill
Bill,
Thank you Butty! I had a lot of fun yesterday and I'm happy to have you see the layout and all the changes going on. I'm getting renewed interest in scenery now that I see some progress on my part. It's been almost four years since I've done any scenery.
Also, thank you very much for the help in getting the plywood. I did get it all cut prior to the monsoon.
Tom ;D
The Judge was over this morning and we tested five diesels with new WOW sound installed.
While he was here, I had him look at the new tree line and give me second pair of eyes. I added three new trees to the area left of the double bridge.
BEFORE:
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300516171110.jpeg)
AFTER:
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010616184148.jpeg)
It looks much better with the added trees.
I agree; that area will be popular with your LP railfans.
Tom, you are making me a believer in Joey's backdrops. I'm seriously looking at these and I like the way you added trees to the foreground to better blend the backdrop in. Keep up the good work. Phil
Quote from: jbvb on June 02, 2016, 10:42:10 AM
I agree; that area will be popular with your LP railfans.
James,
Thank you, I do feel that the LP railfans will be pleased.
Tom ;D
Quote from: KCS Trains on June 02, 2016, 01:25:55 PM
Tom, you are making me a believer in Joey's backdrops. I'm seriously looking at these and I like the way you added trees to the foreground to better blend the backdrop in. Keep up the good work. Phil
Phil,
Thank you. The backdrops from Joey have really helped the layout look more realistic. As I said, best decision I've made concerning the layout and scenery.
Joey is easy to work with and the backdrops are easy to install.
Tom ;D
The next area to get a scenery make over is the area to the right of the double bridge. In this area I plan to have two maybe three little Florida cracker house in a wooded area off a dirt road. The Florida cracker houses will need to be scratch built but that will be relatively simple.
The area on the layout is know as Eaton's Curve. As in Judge Eaton. The elevation is a little over two inches above the track. In Florida we call this a sand hill.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020616164427.jpeg)
As you can hopefully see, I've already cut in the dirt road, ditches and the approach to the houses.
The track on Eaton's Curve hasn't been ballasted as yet. I used blue painters tape to cover the track.
I don't want any "Oops, or Ut Ohs" during the scenery addition.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020616164441.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020616164459.jpeg)
I'm using DAP brand Vinyl Spackling to cover the blue foam. According to the DAP people this stuff is Heavy Duty, Resists Cracking and is Easy to Sand. Well, I'll report back to ya'll on that. Notice it "Resists Crackikng". I can hear the little spackles telling each other during the drying process to "Resist cracking"! It doesn't say it won't crack but it resists cracking.
Yep, I fell off the truck yesterday.
Anyway, here is the proof.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020616181135.jpeg)
More in a few.
The sand hill is now covered in "Cracking resistant" spackle.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020616164519.jpeg)
Also, I should be able to sand and paint in five hours time after application. I won't as I don't plan or staying and watching it resist cracking.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020616164536.jpeg)
Now, on to sand hills. Erieman says he has never heard of sand hills. Well, Florida doesn't have any mountains we can call mountains. We do; however, have sand hills.
In the photo below you can see what I'm referring to. The photo was taken by a friend when he was visiting an area between Lake City, Florida and Live Oak, Florida. back in 1961.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020616164722.jpeg)
The sun faded purple ACL E6A is passing through a sand hill. Notice the hill to the left of the loco and the level ground to the right. In the rear right of the photo you can see the hill slopes down to the right in the photo.
Now you know what our sand hills look like.
More in a few.
Since the trackage in the photo is located in a part of north central, Florida you will notice the color of the dirt. It is a rusty brown. Some may think is is actually clay, as in good old Georgia clay.
It is and it isn't clay. It's a combination of both the color of clay and Florida sand/dirt. Clay is a mineral with various amounts of iron, the iron giving it the rusty color. So what appears to be clay in Florida is actually iron colored sand/dirt.
In the photo below we have another faded purple E6A, #505 in north Florida just south of Georgia. You can see the sand hill is in fact Georgia clay and appears to be hard packed on the slope.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020616164753.jpeg)
Now, aren't you glad you asked? 8) 8)
Tom ;D ;D ;D
Most impressive Uncle Tommy,
I like the idea of using spackle on the blue foam. Seems like it would be easier to control the application over using plaster. Of course, for proper erosion of the hillside you could always pour some "Diet Pepsi" on the landscape. That will melt anything....
;D ;D ;D
Hi,
Tom,
you made again nice work on those sand hills.....I found the same crackle restintant spackle over her on German Amazon ;)
Regards,Chris
Since their "cracker" houses, shouldn't you use "cracker" Spackle? ;D
Jeff
Quote from: bruce.oberleitner on June 02, 2016, 10:34:28 PM
Most impressive Uncle Tommy,
I like the idea of using spackle on the blue foam. Seems like it would be easier to control the application over using plaster. Of course, for proper erosion of the hillside you could always pour some "Diet Pepsi" on the landscape. That will melt anything....
;D ;D ;D
Cousin Brucie,
How are you? It's been a long time. I miss you on the forum. Certainly hope all is well with you.
Using the spackle was an experience and besides I wanted to try it with scenery. Diet Pepsi is to valuable a resource to waste on some simple erosions. And, they said, "Maxwell House coffee was good to the last drop". Obviously "they" never tried a Diet Pepsi.
Cousin Brucie don't be a stranger.
Regards and Best Wishes my Friend,
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on June 03, 2016, 09:40:59 AM
Hi,
Tom,
you made again nice work on those sand hills.....I found the same crackle restintant spackle over her on German Amazon ;)
Regards,Chris
Chris,
Thanks very much, I appreciate the support.My spackle did in fact crack.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on June 04, 2016, 07:18:48 AM
Since their "cracker" houses, shouldn't you use "cracker" Spackle? ;D
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
Good one! I did in fact use "craker" spackle as the spackle did crack. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Well, I said I would report on the "resistant cracking" spackle. It did crack but was no big issue. I just filled it by finger painting some spackle in the cracks.
I have lots to report but I first need to upload, crop, reload the photos.
I should be back in about an hour.
Tom ;D
Gents...
Depending on the area being plastered in.............
Here is an old sheet rock mudder trick............ Works for them as most stuff is flat...
Take a coarse sponge and wet it. Then wipe down the area that has small cracks. The sponge will plow up the surface and park it in the cracks.
There is something about sheet rock mud that takes a while to really kick off. This trick works for about the first two days after application. After that it's not so good.
see ya
Bob
Quote from: bparrish on June 04, 2016, 02:19:04 PM
Gents...
Depending on the area being plastered in.............
Here is an old sheet rock mudder trick............ Works for them as most stuff is flat...
Take a coarse sponge and wet it. Then wipe down the area that has small cracks. The sponge will plow up the surface and park it in the cracks.
There is something about sheet rock mud that takes a while to really kick off. This trick works for about the first two days after application. After that it's not so good.
see ya
Bob
Bob,
Thanks for dropping by and posting a comment. I've used Drywall mud in the past and wanted to try the spackle. I've actually used the mudder sponge trick when I installed drywall in the man cave/layout room.
Comparing the two, I'd have to give a nod to the drywall mud. However, either one will work at it will all be covered.
Thanks again for the post.
Tom ;D
I choose to use Northeastern Scale Lumber for the construction of the two cracker houses. The 1/16" clapboard is what I'm using for the walls.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616142925.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616142925.jpeg)
I drew a house pattern on the back side of the clapboard.
I'm building two different styles for the houses. This one has an offset roof with and attic window centered below the roof peek.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616142940.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616142940.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616142956.jpeg)
Fast forward and the two houses have been cut out of the clapboard. I still need to cut in a few windows and a door.
Both houses will be set on blocks and off the ground.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143012.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143029.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143046.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Now for some scenery.
I wanted to try something different in adding scenery. If it works we all benefit and if it doesn't then ya'll benefit (learning not to follow me) while I rip it all out. :'( :'( :'(
I started by painting the spackle with Golden's Yellow and Burnt Umber Light Acrylics. I combined the two colors with 80% Yellow Ochre to 20% Burnt Umber Light.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143104.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143116.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143131.jpeg)
I'll be using a combination of Scenic Express Fine, Medium and Course dirt.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143147.jpeg)
I painted while glue on the spackle and then used a Dixie cup to apply the dirt. For the slope I used the fine dirt.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143201.jpeg)
Continued after a Diet Pepsi break. 8)
Tom
You have been busy - Looking great!
Quote from: S&S RR on June 04, 2016, 03:44:40 PM
Tom
You have been busy - Looking great!
John,
Yes, I have been very busy of late. You know building an Empire requires all the time we can afford. ;D ;D
Thanks for stopping by and checking in.
Tom 8)
You can see in the next two photos that simply sprinkling on the dirt, the coverage isn't 100%
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143220.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143255.jpeg)
I solved this problem by using the dirt at the bottom of the slope. I used a 1 inch soft bristle brush and pulled the dirt up onto the slope to cover the area where I could still see the white glue.
The result is as seen below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143239.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
As you can see, the glue absorbs the dirt and the glue appears as a wet spot.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143311.jpeg)
I continued to pull the dirt up against the glue/wet spot.
Now it's starting to look good and the erosion shows.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143328.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I moved to the corner and followed the same process as before for adding the dirt.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143343.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143357.jpeg)
I went back to the left side of the sand hill and applied a coat of white glue to the blue foam. I then used the course dirt to cover the white glue. Keep in mind, I'm using the dirt as a base coat and also for the sand hill dirt. Grasses, weeds and etc. will be added later.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143414.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I then painted some white glue on the small area shown below and added some Woodland Scenics earth turf to the area.
The seem in the photo backdrop will be covered with a tree.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143443.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143443.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143501.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143501.jpeg)
You need to understand that the second coat of dirt I pulled up the slope is loose on the surface. To secure the dirt I applied a liberal amount of Matte Medium (Scenic Express) to the area as shown below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143519.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143519.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143428.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143428.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
We aren't finished yet. Now that the Matte Medium has been added, I repeated the process of sprinkling the dirt and drawing it up the slope.
I'll let this dry over night and let you know how it looks in the morning, er, maybe tomorrow afternoon.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143428.jpeg)
By the way, here are some of the different scenery materials and colors I use on the layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143532.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143546.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040616143617.jpeg)
I use the same Scenic Express dirt. I think it dries a darker shade than it goes on. I usually sprinkle more on top to lighten it up. I'll be interested to see how your's dries.
Jeff
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on June 04, 2016, 08:22:19 PM
I use the same Scenic Express dirt. I think it dries a darker shade than it goes on. I usually sprinkle more on top to lighten it up. I'll be interested to see how your's dries.
Jeff
Jeff,
The dirt does dry slightly darker when dry. However, I've found that I can use a soft brush to "dust" the dirt back to the unglued color. I just dip the brush in the dry dirt and lightly brush it on. I'll have photos of it later this afternoon.
I think I know where you are going with the interest in drying. The dirt has a tendency to pull the glue apart causing small cracks in the dirt after drying. I have a solution for this as well. Photos later this afternoon.
If this isn't your interest in the drying let me know so I'll be able to talk about it later.
Tom ;D
I've only built a couple of dioramas with the dirt, The Empire is still scenery free. :-[ My main concern was the darker color. I'll have to try the brush technique you describe as well. Thanks for the info.
Jeff
Moving at a nice clip as always Tom. I'd like to come see it in person soon.
Looks great!
John
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on June 05, 2016, 07:50:22 AM
I've only built a couple of dioramas with the dirt, The Empire is still scenery free. :-[ My main concern was the darker color. I'll have to try the brush technique you describe as well. Thanks for the info.
Jeff
Jeff,
The dirt does change color ever so slightly for me. I've been able to get it back to "out of the jug" color by a few simple steps. I'll cover them in a few minutes after this post.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on June 05, 2016, 08:34:15 AM
Moving at a nice clip as always Tom. I'd like to come see it in person soon.
Looks great!
John
SBG John,
Thanks for the support my friend. You are welcome to come by anytime. I'll be here all day tomorrow and after 12PM all Tuesday afternoon. You know where I'll be and how to get in.
See you soon.
Tom ;D
I've used the Scenic Express dirt in the past so I knew what was to come when the glue under the dirt thoroughly dried.
When I apply the dirt over white glue, the dirt has a tendency to draw the glue apart and there by leaving a few cracks in the dirt.
See below photos.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050616173420.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050616173403.jpeg)
Also, Dr. Jeff expressed a concern the dirt changes color, ie, darker than the dirt prior to it being glued in place.
In the two photos above you can see the dark color verses the lighter brown. I brushed the area where the dirt is lighter and not the darker area. The darker color doesn't bother me that much but it can be changed.
Continued in a few.
In the photo below, you can see a few cracks in the dirt. To me this looks natural and occurs in Mother Nature. Let's call this a little erosion crack.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050616173435.jpeg)
To remove the crack, here is what I did.
I sprinkled on some of the fine dirt at the bottom of the affected area. I then used a soft bristle brush to pull up the dirt onto the cracks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050616173450.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050616173504.jpeg)
This is a photo of the same area. You can see the erosion cracks are filled in and the darker color is also gone. Basically you could say I dry brushed the dirt after the glue thoroughly dried.
The darker spots in the eroded area is light shadow.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050616173531.jpeg)
The cracks can also be covered with weeds of some sort of other type grass. In the photo below you can see weeds growing on the slope and the eroded cracks in the dirt/clay.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020616164753.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020616164722.jpeg)
This area is really coming along Tom. I agree that mother nature doesn't like to work with one color of dirt. I have been using chalks to get more variation. Same process as you are using with the brush and real dirt, but I add streaks of slightly different colors. I have also been collecting dirt that is different colors to help with this effect.
This really is turning out quite nice. I can't wait to see it up close and personal. My calendar is quite full between now and mid July but I'd like to squeeze in a visit one of these days to check it out. :D
Quote from: S&S RR on June 05, 2016, 10:29:22 PM
This area is really coming along Tom. I agree that mother nature doesn't like to work with one color of dirt. I have been using chalks to get more variation. Same process as you are using with the brush and real dirt, but I add streaks of slightly different colors. I have also been collecting dirt that is different colors to help with this effect.
Thanks John,
Appreciate your thoughts on the subject. I've not tried the chalks on the dirt but sounds like it would work.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on June 06, 2016, 11:26:58 AM
This really is turning out quite nice. I can't wait to see it up close and personal. My calendar is quite full between now and mid July but I'd like to squeeze in a visit one of these days to check it out. :D
Bob,
Thank you Butty, much appreciated. The Judge and I are here every Saturday, well, the calendar Saturday anyway.
I'm here on Thursday nights. Pretend you are going to bowling and come on down. You are welcome anytime.
Tom ;D
I've been up to my bench doing scenery the past two days. I'll have an update tomorrow or Wednesday evening at the latest.
Tom 8)
Tom, personally I like the cracks in the dirt because they do occur in nature, especially if it is really dry. At the end of the day, when applying scenery you may get some nice effects that you didn't anticipate, but like and keep as is. That's ok. Phil
Quote from: KCS Trains on June 07, 2016, 02:01:35 PM
Tom, personally I like the cracks in the dirt because they do occur in nature, especially if it is really dry. At the end of the day, when applying scenery you may get some nice effects that you didn't anticipate, but like and keep as is. That's ok. Phil
Phil,
Thanks for stopping by and posting a comment. I like the cracks as they appear natural to me and I also think they look good. I was just showing everyone how to cover them if they desired. Mine are open and will stay that way.
If I didn't say this already, I was really great meeting you at this years EXPO.
Tom ;D
I've finished about 93% of the scenery on Eaton's Curve. As soon as I can get all the photos ready to post, I'll post a photo update. Hopefully I can do it this afternoon.
Stay tuned to this channel. LOL!
Tom 8)
Some of the scenery extras I use are from Mother Nature vs. Woodland Scenics/Scenic Express.
The photo below shows some ground up oak leaves and stems from the yard.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184429.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184429.jpeg)
This next product is sort of from Mother Nature by way of Midwest Cork. I sanded the cork and kept the shavings. It makes great forest rot and looks good. Combined with the leaves it looks very natural.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184444.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184444.jpeg)
I will sometimes use the sawdust from Masonite. I also makes great ground cover. No photo of the Masonite saw dust.
Continued in a few.
After applying the initial ground turf, I sprinkle on some of the cork shavings or cork saw dust.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184516.jpeg)
I then add the oak leaf mix. By adding these two by products, I get a nice textured ground surface.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184534.jpeg)
I then start building the forest with super trees by Scenic Express.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184549.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
In the next photo you can see where I've added many more foreground trees around the photo backdrop.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184606.jpeg)
The two open areas are where the two Cracker Houses will be placed.
I moved on to the next sand hill and painted some white glue on the top. I then piled some Woorland Scenics Earth Fine Turf in the middle and spread it out over the white glue.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184623.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184640.jpeg)
More in a few.
When the glue dried, I saturated the area with matte medium and started planting more trees against the photo backdrop.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184656.jpeg)
While the second sand hill was drying I planted some corn for the Cracker House folks. Notice there is no access to the corn field. You see, the Cracker's don't have the owner's permission to use his land for their garden.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184801.jpeg)
While the turf was drying and the corn growing, I turned to the dirt road.
Continued in a few.
The dirt road was built pretty much the same as the sand hills. I used the vinyl spackling over the blue foam. I again used white glue to paint the road and then sprinkled on the Fine Scenic Express dirt.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184714.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184840.jpeg)
I put the dirt on heavy and let the glue absorb what it could.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184858.jpeg)
More in a few.
I let the glue dry over night. I then used a soft bristle brush to remove the excess dirt. In some places the glue didn't hold or I just missed the area the first time.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184915.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616184915.jpeg)
I used an long plastic dropper to apply some diluted matte medium on the road and then applied a second coat of dirt. I let this dry over night and the below photo is how the road looks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616185032.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616185032.jpeg)
After drying over night, you can still see a few wet areas.
Tom,
Wow!, very realistic modeling. I like the overall modeling scene. Keep working hard, it pays off in about 50 years. ha. you go girl! Thanx Thom...
Tom,
It is looking very nice. I like it.
Tom....wonderful work, wonderful tutorial, wonderful layout (did I leave out anything?)......just WONDERFUL.
doing a great job of blending into that backdrop. Very nice!
John
Tom, It was a pleasure to meet you as well at the EXPO. Again, I really like the way you set up your tutorials. I can easily follow and I'm picking up a lot of great ideas. Thanks for sharing. Phil
Quote from: tct855 on June 07, 2016, 08:02:46 PM
Tom,
Wow!, very realistic modeling. I like the overall modeling scene. Keep working hard, it pays off in about 50 years. ha. you go girl! Thanx Thom...
Thom,
Thank you for the kind words my friend. It was great talking with you last night. I'm still hard at it and I wish I had 50 more years.
Tom ;D
Quote from: sdrees on June 07, 2016, 08:07:51 PM
Tom,
It is looking very nice. I like it.
Steve,
Thank you, very much appreciated. It looks better every time I look at it. I still need to do much more to get it where I feel it should be and how it should look.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on June 07, 2016, 09:25:46 PM
Tom....wonderful work, wonderful tutorial, wonderful layout (did I leave out anything?)......just WONDERFUL.
Donato,
I think its wonderful that you stopped by to check it all out. Thanks very much for stopping by and posting a comment. That was wonderful of you! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8) 8)
Quote from: Cuse on June 08, 2016, 07:46:24 AM
doing a great job of blending into that backdrop. Very nice!
John
Butty John,
Thank you, I appreciate your support. It is starting to look like a layout once again.
Tom ;D
Quote from: KCS Trains on June 08, 2016, 01:46:49 PM
Tom, It was a pleasure to meet you as well at the EXPO. Again, I really like the way you set up your tutorials. I can easily follow and I'm picking up a lot of great ideas. Thanks for sharing. Phil
Phil,
Thank you for the very kind remarks and for following along. I'm happy to share any and all tips, techniques, etc. I have.
Tom ;D
As you can see, I continued to add more trees to the three areas. I find it best to work on one section and move to the next. This way while working on the other section, I can look at what I've done and let the overall scene in that section grow on me. I'll see a tree that doesn't fit, remove it and replace it with a larger, smaller or different color tree.
This four foot section of the three sand hills has taken me 2 and a half days up to this point and I'm still adding details.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193445.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193503.jpeg)
The bushes or undergrowth on the corner in the next photo are simply broken limbs from the super trees. i don't throw any small branch or broken tree limb away. As you can see they make great small bushes or wild shrubs.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193522.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
So far, I've planted 78 trees on the three sand hills. I stopped counting the smaller stuff I planted at 214 bits and pieces of trees. It doesn't take long to fill a forest but it does take many trees.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193538.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193603.jpeg)
In the next photo you can see the right edge of sand hill #2 and the left edge of hill #3. Notice the road in the distance? When I add my road (hopefully in the next few days) I'll blend the road into the backdrop.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193624.jpeg)
More in a few.
I've added more shrubs, broken trees limbs, to the front edge of the middle sand hill.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193643.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193718.jpeg)
Here is a different angle view of the first hill and the edge growth.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193732.jpeg)
More in a few.
Tom, nice job on reforestation, the trees blend right into the backdrop perfectly. Can't tell where one stops and the other starts.
Here is a view of the dirt road. Notice how it goes down in the back and fades into the backdrop? When viewed it gives the appearance of going off in the distance. At least that was my intent. You be the judge here. I like it but it doesn't mean it looks the same to others. I believe this would be referred to as forced perspective.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193750.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193807.jpeg)
Well, I see the Langford's are going down the dirt road. They have no idea it stops at the bottom of the tree line. ;) ;)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193824.jpeg)
Quote from: ak-milw on June 08, 2016, 06:54:59 PM
Tom, nice job on reforestation, the trees blend right into the backdrop perfectly. Can't tell where one stops and the other starts.
Andy,
Thank you for the kinds words and support. This has really got my juices flowing again. I haven't done any scenery for quite some time.
Tom ;D
Yep, I knew they had to turn around.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193841.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193841.jpeg)
From here on out, I'll just add many photos of the overall area of the three hills. I still need to add the road, add more scenery, add two track crossings, etc. Oh yes, and finish the two scratch built Cracker houses.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193855.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193855.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193911.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193911.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193928.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193943.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616193956.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070616194010.jpeg)
Filling up nicely, one of the main reasons I didn't cove my corners, more land.
Tom,
Now that we are back from New York, I can take a good look at your progress on a bigger screen. Absolutely awesome. The backdrop and the foreground foliage make a beautiful scene. Very impressive indeed. The dirt and ground foam match the scene exceptionally well. It takes a long time to put in scenery. I know! Beautiful job my friend.
Frank / Erieman
Tom,
I'm going to copy cat Frank! Ditto... Thanx Thom...
Can't wait to see it in person.
Jim
No surprise Butty, Looks good! I know your having fun.
Bill
Quote from: ak-milw on June 08, 2016, 08:47:06 PM
Filling up nicely, one of the main reasons I didn't cove my corners, more land.
Andy,
Thanks for stopping by. I coved the corners on an old layout and lost quite a bit of room. Cliff Powers, Magnolia, Alabama & Gulf doesn't cove his corners for the same reason. Below is one of his corners.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100814152158.jpeg)
Quote from: Erieman on June 08, 2016, 10:42:02 PM
Tom,
Now that we are back from New York, I can take a good look at your progress on a bigger screen. Absolutely awesome. The backdrop and the foreground foliage make a beautiful scene. Very impressive indeed. The dirt and ground foam match the scene exceptionally well. It takes a long time to put in scenery. I know! Beautiful job my friend.
Frank / Erieman
Afternoon Frank,
Thank you for the kind words on the scenery. It has been great fun to get back in to it. As you know, scenery does take time if you want it to look natural.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on June 08, 2016, 10:49:15 PM
Tom,
I'm going to copy cat Frank! Ditto... Thanx Thom...
Thom,
I'll copy you in the "ditto" thanks. 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on June 08, 2016, 11:12:05 PM
Can't wait to see it in person.
Jim
Butty Jim,
Come by anytime. You know where I'll be. If not, I'll be right back.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on June 09, 2016, 05:07:36 AM
No surprise Butty, Looks good! I know your having fun.
Bill
Butty Bill,
Thanks, much appreciated. This corner is going to be one of many focal points on the layout.
Tom ;D
I've been working on the Cracker houses and the main highway around Eaton's Curve. I should have something to report and show later this afternoon or evening.
Tom ;D
I thought I'd share a little Florida Cracker history. You've read about my Cracker Houses I'm scratch buildling. They are called cracker houses as they are small like crackers.
Also. a Cracker is a white native born Floridian, usually with pre-civil war ancestry. Sometimes used in a derogatory manner by other ethnic groups.
Florida cowboys are also called crackers as they use their whips to heard the cattle and scare gators. The whip makes a "crack" when used and thus the cowboys are referred to as Crackers.
//www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gXq73MRKmM
Smile why you call me Cracker, stranger.
//www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTDNYqdXro4
I started adding the highway next to the track at Eaton's Curve. I purchased some 1/8" cardboard from Sam Flax Art Supplies and I'm using this as the highway.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616145914.jpeg)
I marked on the plywood the width of the road. I then painted full strength white glue on the plywood and set the heavy stock cardboard in place. You'll want to add weights to hold it down. As the glue is a water base glue, the cardboard will separate if it's not held in place until the glue dries. As you can see I've used everything I could find to hold mine down.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616145928.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616145958.jpeg)
Looks like I forgot the kitchen sink.
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616150012.jpeg)
This is the best use I can think of for my cell phone and speaker.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616145943.jpeg)
This morning I removed all the assortments of weights. Everything was level and flat.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616150029.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
According to FDOT, the distance between concrete highway expansion joints is 8-12 ft. In HO scale this seemed a little to close so I went with the A&S RR standard of 15 ft. between the joints. I used a pencil to mark the joint lines on the cardboard.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616150147.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616150133.jpeg)
FDOT also states that an expansion joint was down the middle. I didn't do this joint as the yellow/white line down the middle would cover it anyway.
I forgot to show this next photo. This is prior to the expansion joint pencil lines.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616150118.jpeg)
Tom.......
Interesting stuff about crackers........... BUT ! ! ! !
I'm not sure I would want to walk into a Florida bar and call some guy a cracker.
Might just start a fight.
I was in enough of those while in the navy. There was always someone who had to say something not nice about some marine's sister ! ! !
see ya
Bob
In drawing the lines/joints, I used a square to get the correct angle on the roadway in relation to the edge.
Once all the lines were drawn, I used the square to hold on the line and scribe the joint lines.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616150204.jpeg)
This next trick isn't mine as Howard Zane showed me this on one of my many visits to his wonderful layout.
To seal the cardboard from moisture and prep for painting, I painted on full strength white glue on the top and sides of the cardboard. This seals the cardboard highway and protects it as I add scenery to the edges.
Don't worry how it looks while you are applying the glue. The glue will dry clear and seeks it own level on the cardboard.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616150221.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616150235.jpeg)
Tomorrow I should you what the road looks like after the glue has dried.
Quote from: bparrish on June 10, 2016, 03:48:17 PM
Tom.......
Interesting stuff about crackers........... BUT ! ! ! !
I'm not sure I would want to walk into a Florida bar and call some guy a cracker.
Might just start a fight.
I was in enough of those while in the navy. There was always someone who had to say something not nice about some marine's sister ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Bob,
A native Floridian can do it. If you came down and did it to someone it may cause trouble. I had a guy the other day ask me if I was a Florida Cracker and I replied, "Yes, and da-n proud of it." Basically he was asking if I was born in Florida. ;D ;D ;D ;D
My Babe cracks the whip on me all the time. Honey due stuff and not the S&M stuff. ??? ???
Tom 8) 8)
Geez Tom! You're much better than Wikipedia.....!!!! ;D
Quote from: Donato on June 10, 2016, 04:33:08 PM
Geez Tom! You're much better than Wikipedia.....!!!! ;D
Donato,
Thank you sir, we at the A&S RR aim to please. :P
Tom ;D
Tom....
I can't resist a cheap shot at downtown Idaho. You mentioned FDOT for specifications on your highway.
Any time the Idaho Department Of Transportation does something stupid....... Which is actually pretty often.
I'm forced to remark....
"How do you spell idiot with only one I?" IDOT
Actually there is a county highway district in Ada County also. The only such entity in the entire country. They don't get along with anyone, state or city. It's a good ole boys club.
See........... there is a plus for living in Idaho.
see ya
Bob
Reading Bob, (Master Builder Mr. Butts) uses Northeastern Scale Lumber Flamingo Glue on his models. He was kind enough to give me a bottle and small applicator bottle to try. I'm using the "pink" glue on the two Fl. Cracker houses.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616165316.jpeg)
All the doors and windows are cut out. The walls are braced with scale 8x8's. Notice I didn't cut any window holes in the back wall of house #2. The rear of this house can't be seen from any angle on the layout. If John Siekirk comes down and usees the selfie camera stick, then you won't see the windows that aren't there. 8) 8)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616165329.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Quote from: bparrish on June 10, 2016, 04:53:45 PM
Tom....
I can't resist a cheap shot at downtown Idaho. You mentioned FDOT for specifications on your highway.
Any time the Idaho Department Of Transportation does something stupid....... Which is actually pretty often.
I'm forced to remark....
"How do you spell idiot with only one I?" IDOT
Actually there is a county highway district in Ada County also. The only such entity in the entire country. They don't get along with anyone, state or city. It's a good ole boys club.
See........... there is a plus for living in Idaho.
see ya
Bob
Bob,
That's a great IDOT story. WE in Fl. refer to the FDOT as F-----g Department of Transg-----s. They don't know what they want to be!
I'll probably be suspended for that one. :'( :'(
Tom 8)
The corner trim of 4X4's were added next.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616165347.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616165402.jpeg)
You want to get a good tight corner fit.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616165426.jpeg)
I'm looking for a certain paint look on the two houses so I chose to apply the A&I stain first.
I'm using Hunterline weathering mix, Creosote Black.
I want a dirty finish look. For the first application, I applied a very light coat of wash. The key here is to get the unpainted wood darkened without warping the walls. When this dries a second coat will be added.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616165446.jpeg)
You can see that only after a few minutes the stain is beginning to dry.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100616165500.jpeg)
This is coming along great Tom! :D :D :D
Feel free to call me a cracker too as long as you preface it with 'coal'. :D
Coal Cracker
A resident of Northeastern Pennsylvania, especially the Anthracite region roughly between Reading and Scranton
Yuengling! Diet staple of coal crackers
Butty Coal Cracker,
Thanks for kind words and support. Thank you for the Flamingo glue, I like it.
Cracker Tom ;D
Tom
Looking good - you are moving right along. And once again you proved that a Model Railroader can never have enough weights. Or clamps too!
I opted not to post my cracker comment as I don't want to join Tom in the corner. :-X
Quote from: S&S RR on June 10, 2016, 09:06:05 PM
Tom
Looking good - you are moving right along. And once again you proved that a Model Railroader can never have enough weights. Or clamps too!
John,
Thanks for stopping by. I think I need even more weights. They do come in handy especially when you need them.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on June 11, 2016, 10:02:02 AM
I opted not to post my cracker comment as I don't want to join Tom in the corner. :-X
Chip,
I agree. We should probably let this one die a fast death.
Tom ;D
Once I had the two coats of Hunterline Creosote Black A&I stain on the walls, I set themn aside to dry overnight.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130616155959.jpeg)
I used Floquil Reefer White and dabbed the paint on the walls. I then dipped the brush into some clean thinner and blended the white paint into the walls.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130616160013.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130616160030.jpeg)
More in a few.
The two house will not be foreground structures so I didn't add any nail holes. I will add one final light coat of Hunterline Light Gray A&I to the walls when the finished.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130616160045.jpeg)
I made two porch frames out of scale 4x4's and added them to the front of the houses. I made them the width of the house and came out from the house five HO scale feet.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130616160100.jpeg)
The two porch frames were glued directly to the front of the houses just below the door opening.
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130616160117.jpeg)
The roof decking was cut from plain cardboard. I cut each house roof decks to fit the particular house.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130616160131.jpeg)
In the next photo you can also see the proch decking already in place. I forgot to take a photo of the porch being constructed. I stained scale 2X6's and glued them in place on the porch. The roof was added next.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130616160146.jpeg)
Here is a quick little pictorial of the two Cracker Houses.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140616115549.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140616115603.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140616115616.jpeg)
After the houses are finished, I'll need to finish the scenery around the houses. Just imagine all the junk I can put in the yards, old cars/trucks and all the other "yard art" these folks display. :-[ :-[
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140616115629.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140616115645.jpeg)
Tom
Good morning Tom,
The cracker houses are looking great. Can't wait to see all the junk you put here and there. That is going to make the scene really pop. Great job my friend.
Frank / Erieman
As memory serves me after MANY years of being away from the Panhandle (Pensacola, thank you Uncle Sam), you don't need to do much detail work on the windows. Not sure how you model missing glass and oiled butcher paper in HO gauge, but I'm sure you'll find a way.
Looking good, sir!
Tom,
I am catching up to this thread, the shacks look great, especially sitting on piers with enough room for the hound to cool off during the day. You might consider a Swamp Cooler for one of the windows if the inhabitants were affluent enough to afford one. You have certainly captured the south with this scene!
Bob
T~,
Love the layout progress. I like following how each scene progress'. Keep at it my friend and get'er done!!! T...
Tom...
You need to find blue tic hounds for under the porch.
See ya
Bob
Tom,
What will the rental costs be on those 2 new additions ? Daily, weekly, or monthly rates ? Can't wait to make a reservation to visit ... ;)
Tommy
Quote from: Erieman on June 14, 2016, 02:04:18 PM
Good morning Tom,
The cracker houses are looking great. Can't wait to see all the junk you put here and there. That is going to make the scene really pop. Great job my friend.
Frank / Erieman
Afternoon Frank,
Thanks for stopping by and for the kind words, much appreciated! I'm still looking for the rest of all my detail parts I boxed three years ago. Christmas one day for sure.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on June 14, 2016, 05:50:30 PM
As memory serves me after MANY years of being away from the Panhandle (Pensacola, thank you Uncle Sam), you don't need to do much detail work on the windows. Not sure how you model missing glass and oiled butcher paper in HO gauge, but I'm sure you'll find a way.
Looking good, sir!
Vettelover,
Oh my, my great grandmother had oiled butcher paper in one of the windows. I still remember that stink! I think she used the paper the meat was wrapped in. Broken glass isn't a problem to model. I have the windows ready but not in the houses yet.
Tom ;D
Quote from: RWL on June 15, 2016, 07:16:45 PM
Tom,
I am catching up to this thread, the shacks look great, especially sitting on piers with enough room for the hound to cool off during the day. You might consider a Swamp Cooler for one of the windows if the inhabitants were affluent enough to afford one. You have certainly captured the south with this scene!
Bob
Bob,
Thanks for the kind words of support, much appreciated. The hound will definitely be around or under the house. Maybe "Ole Blue" will be on the front porch.
I have a couple swamp fans from Dakra but I need to find them. The swamp fan I had when I was growing up was wrist powered and they gave them out at church.
I need to add the out house, a couple of old rusty cars and other cracker junk.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on June 15, 2016, 07:42:01 PM
T~,
Love the layout progress. I like following how each scene progress'. Keep at it my friend and get'er done!!! T...
Thom,
Much appreciated. I hope you are wearing your khaki pants my friend. I'm still at it to get'er done.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on June 16, 2016, 01:46:30 AM
Tom...
You need to find blue tic hounds for under the porch.
See ya
Bob
Bob,
I do have two hound dogs, If I can only find them. 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: tom.boyd.125 on June 16, 2016, 02:53:14 PM
Tom,
What will the rental costs be on those 2 new additions ? Daily, weekly, or monthly rates ? Can't wait to make a reservation to visit ... ;)
Tommy
Tommy,
I'll put you on the reservation list. However, just so you know, these won't be "happy huts". I have other shacks for "per the minute rental" :-[ :-[
Tom ;D
I thought I'd share a technique I do when spreading the ballast. Maybe everyone does it, I'm not sure. In any event if you have done ballast in the past and had it move all over the place, try this. I'll ballast this three foot section. Shown is only 14 inches though.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616184748.jpeg)
I'm using Arizona Rock and Mineral ballast. I pour some ballast into a small dixie cup. I fill the cup about 3/4 full. I then pinch the lip to form a small "V" in the rim. I then pour some ballast down the middle and on each side.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616184802.jpeg)
I then use a soft brush to spread the ballast along the middle and sides.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616184815.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
This next technique really gets the ballast down between the rails and makes the ballast look more natural. Only my humble opinion here.
I use my small finger and run it along the top of the ties next to the rails.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616184830.jpeg)
I use my index finger and run it down the middle.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616184845.jpeg)
The vibration from my fingers "settle" the ballast nicely between the ties. The ballast settles on the sides as well giving the ballast a nice even balanced look.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616184859.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Wet water is used to wet the ballast and then diluted matte medium is used to secure the ballast in place. Here is how it looks when dry.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616184859.jpeg)
Notice the little "floaters" on the ties? I use my fingers in the same manner as mentioned above to remove the floaters.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616184919.jpeg)
The ballast is nice and even and just below the ties.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616185026.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616184956.jpeg)
The Judge suggested that perhaps a dirt/sandy road could be added to the right of the highway. This dirt road will in theory lead to the fishing camp on the Suwannee River. This is where the Bascule bridge is located.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616185011.jpeg)
I used the DAP spackle for the base of the road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616185039.jpeg)
I glued some basic ground foam and turf on each side of the dirt road. This will be the base for my scrub bushes on each side of the dirt road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616185113.jpeg)
Tom,
Not that it needs to be spoken, but here it is: One should always listen to what the Judge says... even if it's modeling. ha. I think it's a good idea adding the dirt road. Thanx Thom...
As an after thought, I wanted to mention how I add the wet water to a small section without wanting to "spray" the wet water all over the same area.
I use a plastic pipette to apply the wetting solution. It isn't rocket science but it does work.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616185058.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160616185058.jpeg)
After the area is wet, Matte medium and scenery are added.
Quote from: tct855 on June 16, 2016, 07:22:35 PM
Tom,
Not that it needs to be spoken, but here it is: One should always listen to what the Judge says... even if it's modeling. ha. I think it's a good idea adding the dirt road. Thanx Thom...
Thom,
Well, on this occasion I did listen as it is a great idea. Some of his others weren't so great. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
T~,
Are we still talking modeling? ha. T...
Quote from: tct855 on June 16, 2016, 07:25:56 PM
T~,
Are we still talking modeling? ha. T...
Yes, of course. Tongue in cheek here however. The Judge is the official Ticket Agent for the Atlantic and Southern so he does have a voice of sorts.
TEL 8)
Yesterday, I was playing around with the new camera and was trying my hand at forced perspective of a scene.
Here I have a Pennsy 2-8-0 consolidation.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200616192548.jpeg)
Here I have an ACL 0-6-0 switcher.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200616192602.jpeg)
What do you think?
Looks good, you should look for some small (O Scale) item to place in the foreground.
dave
Quote from: deemery on June 20, 2016, 08:55:18 PM
Looks good, you should look for some small (O Scale) item to place in the foreground.
dave
Dave,
Thanks for stopping by and posting your thoughts.
Actually, I was kidding! The loco in the first photo is an On30 which runs on HO track. The second loco, the little switcher is an HO scale NWSL 0-6-0. It was the very first brass loco I painted way back in October 1979.
And, it still has the original paint job.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200616192617.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200616192617.jpeg)
You didn't fool us....(well, maybe some of us)!!!!
Tom,
I haven't done it myself, but what if you put a mirror at the end of the road to make it look like the road continues. I've read about the use of mirrors in this regard and I invite other comments on the use of mirrors. Now we only need smoke!! (Get it???) Phil
Darn.....you got me and I've even run that loco..... :-[
Quote from: Donato on June 21, 2016, 02:21:33 PM
You didn't fool us....(well, maybe some of us)!!!!
Donato,
Thanks for stopping by. Could have fooled me said he!
Tom ;D
Quote from: KCS Trains on June 21, 2016, 02:33:10 PM
Tom,
I haven't done it myself, but what if you put a mirror at the end of the road to make it look like the road continues. I've read about the use of mirrors in this regard and I invite other comments on the use of mirrors. Now we only need smoke!! (Get it???) Phil
Phil,
Great question and comment. I actually have an answer as to why there is no mirror at the end of the road. The end of the road can be viewed by the visitor straight on. So, that person would see themselves in the mirror.
When I carved the road in the blue foam, I made it crest at the driveway of the cracker houses. The road continues down and away to the right giving the impression the road disappears to the right behind the hill.
I appreciate the thought and you stopping by.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210616173958.jpeg)
Quote from: GPdemayo on June 21, 2016, 03:03:35 PM
Darn.....you got me and I've even run that loco..... :-[
Greg,
I love ya butty but you are just to easy!
Tom ;D
One of the things I needed was a guard rail of sorts between the track and the highway. I didn't like any of the commercial ones sold by Walthers or others I saw. That meant I had to come up with a scratch built one.
I decided to go with scale 8X8 posts. The 10X10's were just to big and the 6X6's didn't look appropriate either.
According to FDOT (we don't need to go here as we've already solved that one) the guard rail posts are 27 inches high. Well, phooey, I just made mine 3 feet.
I painted the 8X8's with full strength Floquil Reefer White and set them aside to dry. When dry, I cut the in five scale feet sections. I measured two scale feet from the bottom of each post and scored each side. I then shaved the corners at the line and below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210616173821.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I then took a 3/32 drill bit and measured two scale feet from the tip. I rolled a small piece if blue painters tape around the drill bit. More on this later.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210616173833.jpeg)
I measured every scale 7 feet and made a black mark with the marker.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210616173753.jpeg)
I remeasured once again to make sure I had all the marks an equal 7 scale feet apart.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210616173808.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I then drilled the holes in the plywood using the black marks as my guide. The reason I used the blue tape on the drill bit so I would only drill down two HO scale feet.
I then took two of the posts and inserted them into two of the holes. The shaved corners gave me a snug fit and I could make adjustments if needed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210616173847.jpeg)
Also, by marking the posts at the scale two foot, I was only able to push the post into the plywood that length leaving the three feet above the plywood.
More in a few. Diet Pepsi time.
I removed the two posts and made 39 others for a total of 41. I then made, from the top of each post, a mark at the 1 and 2 inch. I used a #66 drill bit and drilled two holes in each post.
I inserted one post in each hole drilled into the plywood.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210616173903.jpeg)
I used K&S Precision Metals .032 (.61mm) music wire and pulled the wire through each post. After just using the wire in the top hole, I realized this wire was to big and out of scale.
I then used Detail Associates #2506 .019" diameter brass wire. This was easily pulled through each hole and proved to be/appear correct.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210616173917.jpeg)
This gave me the guard rail I envisioned. I removed the brass wire and painted it with full strength Floquil Old Silver. When the wire dries, I'll insert it back into the post.
More on the guard rail tomorrow.
Also today I used Canopy Glue for glass in a few windows for the Cracker houses. The windows and doors were install.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210616173930.jpeg)
These Crackers even got a new outdoor bathroom. Both families share this one. I bet that is a great deal of fun for all involved.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210616173943.jpeg)
I should have an update on what I've been doing on the A&S RR later this afternoon or tomorrow evening.
Thanks to all who are following.
Tom ;D
When working on the layout, 8-10-12+ hours goes pretty quickly. However, the work seems to not go as fast as the time.
Over a period of two days, the Judge and I installed 24 wall brackets in about 7 hours.
These brackets will support the outside third level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616162723.jpeg)
For Frank Baker, Erieman, here is a long view of the room not including the ovalix or the crew lounge. The length is just over 39 feet.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616162738.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Today I spent the better part of 9 hours working on the scenery and highway around Eaton's Curve.
I only had one jar of Floquil Concrete. I was going to use it on the highway but didn't want to use in just for the highway. In checking my other Floquil colors, I found I had four bottles of Canadian National Gray #17. I guess CN had many color shades of Gray. The #17 isn't the Floquil number.
The CN Gray was brushed on full strength.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616162823.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616162823.jpeg)
Howdy Doody says it Diet Pepsi time Girls and Boys. Now, if I can find Clarabell the Clown, he has all my DP's.
Back in a few.
I forgot to mention that the CN Gray #17 is a very close match in color to the concrete.
Also, this morning and this afternoon I was able to add more trees, bushes, weeds, etc. to the Eaton's Curve area. I also finished the highway guard rails. Here are a few pictures with no narrative showing the guard rail and the newly added scenery.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616162839.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616162853.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616162908.jpeg)
More in a few.
Here's a decent view of the highway. I still need to add the center line, grease and oil stains and of course vehicles.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616163007.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616162926.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I spent a few hours on the dirt road. The dirt is down and the scenery between the dirt road and the track is finished. I still need to add the scenery between the dirt road and the layout edge. The scene is about 70% finished.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616163032.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616163101.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616163115.jpeg)
Lovin' the whole Scene Tom.
Great scene Tom. I especially love the guardrail and the truck. Thumbs up on Eaton's Corner!
John
Neat. I like the dirt road the best. And the guardrail. And the truck. And the... ;D
Jeff
Tom,
The scene is looking great. The guardrail really add character to it. Nice job.
The scene looks absolutely wonderful Tom! ;D ;D ;D
For what it's worth (and it's a little late) I have at least one unopened jar of Floquil Concrete. You're welcome to it if you need it for future development. I may have more if I dig around my stash. :D
Tom,
Simply marvelous. You are doing a magnificent job, my friend. Thank you for the long shots. Looking really awesome. I can see why you are in their 10-12 hours a day. Keep up the beautiful work.
Frank / Erieman
Tom,
As usual, I'm gonna have to copy cat Frank again to cut down on all the typing of the same thoughts. ha. Thanx Thom...
What can I add to what's been said, great scenes Tom.
Atta boy Tom..... 8)
OH Wow, an "atta boy" from Greg. I find no way to top that!!!!
I also have a couple of unopened bottles of Floquil Concrete. (and mine are closer than Reading Bob's)
Jim
Tom, I am SPEECHLESS!!! :o
That is a very impressive little scene Tom.
Tom ....Just love it !
Tom, that´s awesome........... Fantastic work.
Regards,Chris
Very nicely done my friend. Great work!
Quote from: S&S RR on June 27, 2016, 02:37:58 PM
Very nicely done my friend. Great work!
first go get a mirror...
!krow taerG .dneirf ym enod ylecin yreV
Quote from: Donato on June 28, 2016, 02:21:10 PM
Quote from: S&S RR on June 27, 2016, 02:37:58 PM
Very nicely done my friend. Great work!
first go get a mirror...
!krow taerG .dneirf ym enod ylecin yreV
Donato volunteered to help me design my empire. The only drawback is, so far we've gotten everything bass ackwards. ::)
Quote from: ak-milw on June 24, 2016, 07:24:16 PM
Lovin' the whole Scene Tom.
Andy,
Thank you, very much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on June 24, 2016, 07:29:37 PM
Great scene Tom. I especially love the guardrail and the truck. Thumbs up on Eaton's Corner!
John
John,
Thanks very much. The guard rail was not easy but appears to be well worth the effort. Eaton's Curve is coming along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on June 24, 2016, 07:35:49 PM
Neat. I like the dirt road the best. And the guardrail. And the truck. And the... ;D
Jeff
Jeff,
Thanks, appreciate you stopping by. And thanks. And thanks. And thanks again! ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Quote from: sdrees on June 24, 2016, 07:36:05 PM
Tom,
The scene is looking great. The guardrail really add character to it. Nice job.
Steve,
Thanks very much. I appreciate the support. It has been fun. I think the guard rail really sets the scene.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on June 24, 2016, 07:43:28 PM
The scene looks absolutely wonderful Tom! ;D ;D ;D
For what it's worth (and it's a little late) I have at least one unopened jar of Floquil Concrete. You're welcome to it if you need it for future development. I may have more if I dig around my stash. :D
Butty Bob,
Very much appreciate your support. I won't take your last bottle of concrete but if you find another one, I'll be your huckleberry.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on June 24, 2016, 10:41:18 PM
Tom,
Simply marvelous. You are doing a magnificent job, my friend. Thank you for the long shots. Looking really awesome. I can see why you are in their 10-12 hours a day. Keep up the beautiful work.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thanks for stopping by and posting your support of Eaton's Curve. It seems scenery never gets finished. I'm always finding a place for a bush, tree, or something scenery related.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on June 24, 2016, 11:20:38 PM
Tom,
As usual, I'm gonna have to copy cat Frank again to cut down on all the typing of the same thoughts. ha. Thanx Thom...
Thom,
Thank you sir, much appreciate you stopping by. I have more coming in the next few weeks.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on June 25, 2016, 06:54:11 AM
What can I add to what's been said, great scenes Tom.
Jan,
Your support is very much appreciated. I believe little scenes make the entire layout. Just ask Mr. Sellios. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on June 25, 2016, 08:31:08 AM
Atta boy Tom..... 8)
Butty Greg,
Thank you very much my friend.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on June 25, 2016, 11:11:00 AM
OH Wow, an "atta boy" from Greg. I find no way to top that!!!!
I also have a couple of unopened bottles of Floquil Concrete. (and mine are closer than Reading Bob's)
Jim
Butty Jim,
Yes, Greg really came out of his shell for the last post. All posts are encouraging.
I'll buy the concrete if you want to sell. However, you may want to just give it away. ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on June 25, 2016, 12:16:14 PM
Tom, I am SPEECHLESS!!! :o
Donato,
Okay, I won't say anything either. 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) Well, thanks very much anyway. ;D ;D
Tom :P
Quote from: coors2u on June 25, 2016, 12:43:35 PM
That is a very impressive little scene Tom.
Dustin,
Good to see you my friend. Thank you for the encouragement, very much appreciated. It has been fun.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Amagic41 on June 25, 2016, 11:23:38 PM
Tom ....Just love it !
Ken,
I just love that you "Just love it"! Thanks very much.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on June 27, 2016, 10:09:34 AM
Tom, that´s awesome........... Fantastic work.
Regards,Chris
Hey Chris,
I appreciate your support and thanks for checking in on the thread.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on June 27, 2016, 02:37:58 PM
Very nicely done my friend. Great work!
John,
Thank you very much appreciated. I keep finding more to do and it seems I'll never get finished.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on June 28, 2016, 02:27:52 PM
Quote from: Donato on June 28, 2016, 02:21:10 PM
Quote from: S&S RR on June 27, 2016, 02:37:58 PM
Very nicely done my friend. Great work!
first go get a mirror...
!krow taerG .dneirf ym enod ylecin yreV
Donato volunteered to help me design my empire. The only drawback is, so far we've gotten everything bass ackwards. ::)
Chip,
That's okay, just build it in the mirror. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
This past Saturday, meaning four Saturdays ago, the Judge asked me to give him a refresher course in using Canopy Glue for window glass.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616151208.jpeg)
Tom ;D
I finally finished the two cracker Houses. I still need to add a window fan or two and some rockers on the porch. All those little details are in one of the boxes under the layout but I haven't found the correct box as yet.
Reading Bob gave me a bottle of Gallery Glass Simulated Liquid Leading. I used this to add the tar pitch around both chimneys.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152546.jpeg)
I'm going to back up a little here and mention something I won't do again. For the roofing on the houses, I used very fine sandpaper to represent the rolled roofing. I cut the sandpaper into scale 3 foot widths.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616162754.jpeg)
I then spray painted them with Floquils UP Harbor Mist Gray.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240616162808.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I couldn't find my two sided tape for applying the roofing pieces. Instead of being patient and getting more, I just used white glue to glue the sandpaper on the roof panels.
The glue curled the sandpaper and made it very difficult to apply. I won't do this trick EVER AGAIN. The two sided tape would have worked but the glue wasn't a great idea. I mean it's acceptable for the cracker houses but I don't like the result. By the way, the misaligned rolled roofing is by design.
Live and learn for the next build.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152600.jpeg)
I did find a small dog for the front porch. I think it is a Campbell Figures dog.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152617.jpeg)
Here are a few pictures of the finished houses.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152631.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152647.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152704.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152720.jpeg)
It's time to leave Eaton's Curve for a few weeks and move to another area.
The next area I plan on completing is the area to the left of the double bridge.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152735.jpeg)
Lots of work to be done in this area. I need to add a road across the tracks, add more guard rail between the track and highway, scenery and more scenery, ant the list goes on and on.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152749.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152802.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The white two story structure is a kit Jimmy D. sells. The structure is Bigger Baker's Country Store.
http://railroadkits.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1&products_id=23&zenid=153fef20a7217f98435a7bf6ded80b38
I built this kit and did a thread for Jimmy on the old forum.
http://www.kitforums.com/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=4682
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152817.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152832.jpeg)
More in a few.
I plan to kitbash FOS Varick Frieght Co. for the new area I'm working on.
I won't be using it as a flat though. I'll be adding a larger side wall with a great looking sign. Stay tuned for that.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152903.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280616152849.jpeg)
I plan on a separate build thread for Varick Frieght.
STEAM ON EATON'S CURVE.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290616190401.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290616190415.jpeg)
Tom .....
I must have been lost that day. I don't recall being in my truck at Eaton's curve.
Maybe it was too much of that whacky tabacy.
But if you say so.
See ya
Bob.
Quote from: bparrish on June 29, 2016, 10:36:36 PM
Tom .....
I must have been lost that day. I don't recall being in my truck at Eaton's curve.
Maybe it was too much of that whacky tabacy.
But if you say so.
See ya
Bob.
Bob,
Did you loan your truck to anyone? I was sure it was you. 8) 8) 8)
I guess my eyes aren't what they used to be. Or I saw what I wanted to see. ;D ;D
Nice truck either way.
Tom ;D ;D
Tom ...
I can't loan it out as no one else could get it started. And the if they did they would not survive the rock crusher no syncro transmission. It acts one way when cold and another when it warms up. So much for 140 weight gear oil. When cold no amount of double clutching is helpful.
It's amazing any of the car makers survived the early days. Customer satisfaction was not in the equation. If it moved it was good enough. My model A is even crazier to start but once going is really easy to drive. That's why there are so many left.
I make my wife crazy because even our modern car I use my left foot for braking. Left over from my model T days. Three pedals and none were for the gas.
I'll be watching out for myself at Eaton's. If I get there before I return, keep me there till I get back.
See ya
Bob
Bob,
Growing up I had an old 38 Chevrolet sedan. It also was hard to start with the floor board starter. It was a ruff ride as it had the old knee action shocks. The greatest thing I can say about it was the fact it had a huge back seat which of course was the perfect spot at the drive-in movie. 8) 8) 8)
Tom
One of the things I did a couple of weeks ago was to deconstruct my FSM Cartwrights Machine Shop diorama. When I built it I had grand plans and built every kit to George's instructions. Well, this is a northern structure and I want to use it in the south.
I don't need the water wheel or trestle. Plus the structure needs repair and the diorama base is big, bulky and too heavy. I just want the building and the details.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010716184251.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010716184303.jpeg)
More in a few.
I started by dripping small amounts of water on the scenery and letting the water leach up to the structure.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010716184315.jpeg)
I let it sit a few minutes while the water softened the glue and scenery. I used a #17 Xacto blade to "dig" up the scenery.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010716184327.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010716184346.jpeg)
More in a few.
I worked my way around the structure until I was back to the starting point.
I then removed all the loose scenery material. I used the Xacto #17 blade to gently "cut" the glue under the walls.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010716184401.jpeg)
I then used a small sharp chisel to carefully and gently lift Cartwrights.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010716184413.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010716184425.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The building was removed from the diorama base.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010716190416.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010716190426.jpeg)
The loading docks were saved with just a little bit of damage that can be repaired.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010716190440.jpeg)
Later ins the thread I'dd discuss how I removed the metal wall casting from the resin water.
I've got much more finished on the layout and was going to show some progress photos. However, please bare with me until tomorrow.
I'm just to tired to do any more this evening.
Tom ;D
Jan,
Yes, I did get some rest. I had an officer who worked for me on the midnight shift. We called Cookie Monster. He was big and ate cookies all night.
Thanks for stopping by.
Tom ;D
I needed to make a paved area for Varick Freight and have it be shared with the office staff of Sinners Mill.
I started with an old piece of cardboard. The cardboard came from Sam Flax Art Supply and is 24" X 24".
The cardboard was test fitted on the location of the two structures.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183039.jpeg)
After some additional test fitting I came up with a piece I was satisfied with.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183056.jpeg)
The Judge wanted to help so I let him supervise, after all he is the A&S RR Ticket Agent.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183111.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I then marked the cardboard where it crosses the track. I cut the cardboard on the west side of the rail.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183127.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183141.jpeg)
I then outlined the cardboard on the plywood with a black marker.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183159.jpeg)
More in a few.
I then painted white glue inside the black lines. The cardboard pattern was then placed over the glue and weighted down over night.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183215.jpeg)
I then added the paved area to the east of the track. Once the paved area was glued in place, I painted the white glue over the cardboard the same way I did with the highway. This can be viewed earlier in the thread.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183229.jpeg)
After letting the white glue cover on the paved area dry over night, I painted it with Floquil CN Gray.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183244.jpeg)
More in a few.
Referring to the photo above, notice the space between the paved area and the rail? I used a scale 4 X 8 piece of strip wood and cut the paved area so the strip wood would fit between the rail and cardboard.
I then stained a few pieces of the scale 4 X 8 strip wood with Hunterline Weathering Mix - Sepia Brown.
www.hunterline.com
I cut the 4 X 8's to fit between and outside the rails.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183258.jpeg)
Diet Pepsi break time. Back in a few.
This is a little cross over from the Varick Freight build. I mentioned I was going to cover the concrete base of the sign with scenery material.
I stared by painting white glue on the area to be covered.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183318.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183318.jpeg)
I used various broken limbs and tree branches from broken Scenic Express Super Trees and placed them on the glued area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183402.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183402.jpeg)
I also added some scenery material between the track and the edge of the structure.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183332.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183332.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Here is how the scenery blends from the ground up the side of the concrete area of the sign.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183415.jpeg)
I added some basic ground cover to the small triangle shaped area. I cut 39 more guard rail posts and planted them between the road and track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183347.jpeg)
I added more scenery and a few more trees to the rear of Varick's Frieght.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183429.jpeg)
Nothing else to show for today. More tomorrow if I get the time.
Thanks for the comments and for following along.
Great looking scene! Glad to see the Judge was at least having a beverage! :D
Very nice Tom, after watching you, you make a guy want to just pack it all in.
That is a great looking scene, even with the Judge supervising.
First chance I get I will bring you the 2 Tons (bottles) of Concrete. Fat chance you will ever get to pay for it :o :o :o :o
Jim
Progress on the A&S & Bill doing a bang up job of supervising.....looking good Tom. 8)
Quote from: Raymo on July 09, 2016, 07:29:29 PM
Great looking scene! Glad to see the Judge was at least having a beverage! :D
Dan,
Thank you, much appreciated. The Judge is still recovering from the trip to Scranton! 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ak-milw on July 09, 2016, 09:09:09 PM
Very nice Tom, after watching you, you make a guy want to just pack it all in.
Andy,
Aw shucks, you make me blush! :-[ Thanks very much!
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100716192347.jpeg)
Quote from: jimmillho on July 09, 2016, 09:23:25 PM
That is a great looking scene, even with the Judge supervising.
First chance I get I will bring you the 2 Tons (bottles) of Concrete. Fat chance you will ever get to pay for it :o :o :o :o
Jim
Jim,
Thanks, I'll certainly take you up on the offer. Payment or not.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 10, 2016, 08:51:04 AM
Progress on the A&S & Bill doing a bang up job of supervising.....looking good Tom. 8)
Greg,
Many things have been done since your last visit. See you on Wednesday. And, thank you.
Tom ;D
Today, I got a very good 8+ hours in on the layout.
Much work was done adding more guard rails, highway work including striping, more signs and much more scenery. I even started a small scratch build of a track side shanty.
Hopefully photos to follow tomorrow.
Tom ;D
Tom,
The build is great, the color, the detailing, the sign and for me especially the corbels and upper sheathing, that came out wonderful. It is something not done that often unless it is in the directions and the parts are in the box, nicely done. The location is equally as good, I like the position in relation to the track, not on top of it and not down the road. To all of that I have a question.
You have added bush and bramble to the trackside of the building and it ends right at the corner. I realize the unkempt property is all due to the dispute between the building owner and the local landscaper, but ... . Would that unbridled foliage not continue around the foundation to the east side of the building?
Just a question.
Bob
Tom,
Remember "when" a long time ago, on a railroad far, far away. Someone came up with the beer can rail car. Since you're such a Diet Pepsi fan, perhaps you should think about building one for your layout? My 2 ¢ worth. Thanx Thom... You know since you have so much time to kill on your layout, it should help pass the time better for yah. ha.
Quote from: RWL on July 10, 2016, 08:04:41 PM
Tom,
The build is great, the color, the detailing, the sign and for me especially the corbels and upper sheathing, that came out wonderful. It is something not done that often unless it is in the directions and the parts are in the box, nicely done. The location is equally as good, I like the position in relation to the track, not on top of it and not down the road. To all of that I have a question.
You have added bush and bramble to the trackside of the building and it ends right at the corner. I realize the unkempt property is all due to the dispute between the building owner and the local landscaper, but ... . Would that unbridled foliage not continue around the foundation to the east side of the building?
Just a question.
Bob
Bob,
Thank you for the very nice compliment, much appreciated. In response to your question. Yes, it would continue on around the structure. Erieman, Frank baker, and I were discussing that very thing yesterday. I have already added the bramble under brush as well an one more tree to the rear. Picture to follow later this evening.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on July 10, 2016, 10:20:31 PM
Tom,
Remember "when" a long time ago, on a railroad far, far away. Someone came up with the beer can rail car. Since you're such a Diet Pepsi fan, perhaps you should think about building one for your layout? My 2 ¢ worth. Thanx Thom... You know since you have so much time to kill on your layout, it should help pass the time better for yah. ha.
Thom,
You are one funny guy. The problem with a DP car is that the cargo is to valuable to trust to any railroad. I would be concerned that a bit of "leakage" may occur and the railroad workers would be to "DP buzzed" to continue working.
Now, if you believe all that come on over for a cold Diet Pepsi for your own buzz.
Tom ;D
I pulled out my scenery cart and finished the dirt road at Eaton's curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161303.jpeg)
I added some vehicle ruts and weeds down the middle. I also added some bramble brush on the left.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161229.jpeg)
I also added the stop sign.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161245.jpeg)
More in a few.
The bramble and bushes on the side of Varick Freight were also added to the rear.
Before:
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080716183429.jpeg)
After:
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716160954.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161021.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I added road striping yesterday to the highway. I used a product called KwikStripe by Great Planes. The smallest width it comes in is 1/16". It is 6 inches in HO scale. A little wide but just call it scene compression. Besides it is my railroad and I'm not changing it. ;D ;D ;D ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161108.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161054.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161132.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
You may have also noticed that I added about four more feet of guard rail. I counted all the posts I needed to line the entire highway. I used 127 white posts to complete the guard rails.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161037.jpeg)
Brass wire was used on the first two sections of guard rail I installed around Eaton's Curve. You may remember I mentioned painting it with Floquil Old Silver. When I threaded the brass sire through the holes in the post the paint stripped off in some spots. I had to go back and touch up the silver paint.
On the two new sections of guard rail I used .025 music wire for the steel cable in running through the posts.
It comes "cable gray" and worked much better and faster than the brass wire. And, it looks better.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161327.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161346.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I forgot to add these pictures to the road section.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161149.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161205.jpeg)
Tom...
Thanx for the latest photos. Didn't see my truck so I guess it is back out in my garage.
Did you fill it before you brought it back ? ? ?
see ya
Bob
Quote from: bparrish on July 11, 2016, 05:48:30 PM
Tom...
Thanx for the latest photos. Didn't see my truck so I guess it is back out in my garage.
Did you fill it before you brought it back ? ? ?
see ya
Bob
Bob,
I still have the truck. I'll fill it when I bring it back, if ever. 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
I don't know Tom, I think the striping is way out of wack. I think you should tear it all out and start over.
(kidding)
The whole curve is coming together very nicely.
This area on your layout is looking really nice Tom. The guardrail adds so much to the scene.
Wow.
That whole section is looking fantastic. I like the look of that dirt road very much... vegetation, roads etc.... it´s awesome.....
Great work.
Regards,Chris
Quote from: Twist67 on July 12, 2016, 01:48:33 AM
Wow.
That whole section is looking fantastic. I like the look of that dirt road very much... vegetation, roads etc.... it´s awesome.....
Great work.
Regards,Chris
Ditto that. I was thinking of saying the exact same thing about that dirt road. The entire corner looks terrific! :D
Looks great Tom. Very realistic right-of-way!
John
Quote from: ak-milw on July 11, 2016, 08:27:01 PM
I don't know Tom, I think the striping is way out of wack. I think you should tear it all out and start over.
(kidding)
The whole curve is coming together very nicely.
Andy,
Much appreciated, thanks very much. Whew, you had me worried for a second or two. 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: sdrees on July 11, 2016, 10:53:02 PM
This area on your layout is looking really nice Tom. The guardrail adds so much to the scene.
Steve,
Thanks for the support on the scenery. The guardrail was a little trickie and tedious but very well worth the effort.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on July 12, 2016, 01:48:33 AM
Wow.
That whole section is looking fantastic. I like the look of that dirt road very much... vegetation, roads etc.... it´s awesome.....
Great work.
Regards,Chris
Chris,
Your very kind remarks are much appreciated. The dirt road was actually an after thought. A friend suggested I add the dirt road.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on July 12, 2016, 06:51:02 AM
Quote from: Twist67 on July 12, 2016, 01:48:33 AM
Wow.
That whole section is looking fantastic. I like the look of that dirt road very much... vegetation, roads etc.... it´s awesome.....
Great work.
Regards,Chris
Ditto that. I was thinking of saying the exact same thing about that dirt road. The entire corner looks terrific! :D
Butty Bob,
Thanks very much. You need to come on by soon and see the whole scene. Especially Eaton's Curve.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on July 12, 2016, 06:56:31 AM
Looks great Tom. Very realistic right-of-way!
John
Butty John,
Very much appreciate your kind words of support. Stop by when in the neighborhood and see it in virtual reality.
Tom ;D
Last year Reading Bob built the FOS Yard Office #2 for me. I've now decided where I'm going to use it. However, it is built on a one inch piece of Gator Board.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716164624.jpeg)
It would be unrealistic for me to place it on the layout and then build up the scenery around it. One other option is to cut a hole in the plywood and lower it to track level. Removing it totally from the Gator Board is not an option I wanted to use either.
I came on the thought of cutting it off the Gator Board. Yep, you read it correctly - cut it off the board.
The Yard Office has several LEDs installed. So I first took the roof off and pulled the wires up through the bottom of the structure.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716164456.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716164511.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I then used my razor saw and cut the Gator Board off just under the hard top layer.
I hope Reading Bob isn't watching this. :P :P
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716164525.jpeg)
The task was much easier than I thought it would be. Only took me five minutes. Easy peasy!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716164539.jpeg)
Now it sits on the original top piece and no scenery or pieces came off. I must be the Flamingo Glue holding it all in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716164556.jpeg)
More in a few.
I drilled and new hole in the bottom for the wires.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716164610.jpeg)
Now I can place it on the layout and blend in the scenery to match what Reading Bob has on the small diorama.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716164639.jpeg)
Kids, don't try this at home. I'm a professional. Well, maybe a little nuts as well.
Wow, quite a difference.
I may get over there for a little bit on Saturday.
I will tell you why then.
Jim
Quote from: jimmillho on July 12, 2016, 08:10:16 PM
Wow, quite a difference.
I may get over there for a little bit on Saturday.
I will tell you why then.
Jim
Jim,
See you Saturday. All other SBG's are welcome to show up as well.
Tom ;D
:) I'm really looking forward to seeing the little yard office settled into it's new home on the A&S. :) I wasn't worried when I saw you cutting the gator board down to size. ::) ;) :)
Oh boy Tom.....just when Bob got his eyeballs fixed, you go and post pictures cutting up one of his great builds. I hope he didn't have a coronary. ;D
An elegant solution, Tom. Glad the structure survived intact.
Jeff
Quote from: ReadingBob on July 13, 2016, 07:25:25 AM
:) I'm really looking forward to seeing the little yard office settled into it's new home on the A&S. :) I wasn't worried when I saw you cutting the gator board down to size. ::) ;) :)
Bob,
Hey, I wasn't worried either when I did it. Especially after the fact. Then I wasn't worried.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 13, 2016, 08:14:39 AM
Oh boy Tom.....just when Bob got his eyeballs fixed, you go and post pictures cutting up one of his great builds. I hope he didn't have a coronary. ;D
Greg,
You know me, always willing to thrill. I waited so he could really see what I was doing. LOL! Besides, I cut the base and not the build. Sorry, Butty, couldn't resist.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on July 13, 2016, 09:24:24 AM
An elegant solution, Tom. Glad the structure survived intact.
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
Thanks for the support. I shouldn't tell you just how close I came to cutting the hole in the plywood. Very close.
Tom ;D
Yesterday afternoon I decided to start installing the back drop on the East and South walls.
For the short piece of backdrop that its behind the bookshelf, I first removed the Masonite/hardboard.
In the picture you can see where it used to be.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120716164141.jpeg)
Hey, at least its a picture. We all love pictures don't we?
Of course, I became very engaged in what I was doing and forgot to take a couple of pictures of how I glued the back drop to the Masonite. I was going to say "excited" but some forumite would make some comment. So, I just became engaged to what I was doing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120716164154.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120716164231.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Now for the East wall sections. The East wall has 6 different backdrop sections. Due to the 3M adhesive being extra tacky/sticky I used some white paper to lay on the layout top to keep the adhesive off the track and plywood.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120716164245.jpeg)
The paper is what Joey Ricard rolled the backdrop in to keep them separated.
After installing the first short section, I used a 12 inch level to make sure it was straight and level so the next piece would be a perfect fit.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120716164259.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120716164312.jpeg)
More in a few.
Next came the Bascule Bridge area of the backdrop.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120716164341.jpeg)
Here is how the water looks on the backdrop.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120716164328.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120716164645.jpeg)
Today, I had the Judge and Greg, both members in good standing of the Saturday Butty Group, over to help with the rest of the backdrop installation.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130716154901.jpeg)
Now I must say that for months Greg wanted, or I should say "offered" to help. We agreed on today for that help. However, here is how he thinks he is helping. He removes, without permission I should add, one of the cracker houses and replaces it with an old Campbell's Abandoned House build.
You know the old saying, "You just can't get good help anymore"? Well it certainly applies here don't (sic) it Gregory? Now, there is one less member in good standing. 8) 8)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130716154915.jpeg)
Even with all the shenanigans, we got the job finished and it looks wonderful. The layout is coming together.
We all had a great time, even Gregory obviously.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130716154929.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130716155034.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130716154943.jpeg)
I believe due to the scenery backdrop being photographed in three separate layers, we discovered this phenomenon.
Here is a shot of the road looking straight on.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130716155125.jpeg)
Here is a look at the road from the left. The road follows your view. It points away from the turnout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130716155140.jpeg)
Here is the right side view of the road. It now points to the turnout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130716155153.jpeg)
I finally take a break from rafters, joists, roof trusses, sheathing & fascia and what do I see on the forum.....my membership in good standing has summarily be stripped away. Oh the humanity............. :'(
I guess some people have no sense of humor. ;) ;D ::)
And what is this about being engaged to a piece of masonite.....does Pam know??? :o
Poor Greg. :(
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKmJPnAGUJk
Et Tu Bob..... :-[
Okay, not to worry, Greg has been reinstated into the SBG.
Today I worked on a few areas including the highway. I found some lighted cross bucks and tried these in place of the regular cross bucks. I didn't like them but here is a photo of how they looked. They aren't straight as I only had them in the hole to see how they look. They were removed after the photo was taken.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172249.jpeg)
I did add an information sign for the curve in the road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172306.jpeg)
More in a few.
I spent a few hours weathering the highway. I used Floquil CN Gray for the highway and dry brushed the same color on the white stripes to tone down the brightness of the white.
You can see the difference in the next photo. The bottom stripe was dry brushed and the top one not as of the taking of the photo.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716173457.jpeg)
I used Floquil Weathered Black to add a few highway repairs.
I added whistle posts where needed and some speed limit signs.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172433.jpeg)
More in a few.
I used a dark gray pastel chalk color to add the grease lines on the highway. I used a soft bristle brush and then rubbed it in with my finger.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172334.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172351.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172418.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172321.jpeg)
I dunno Tom..
If you aren't careful you are going to end up with a real railroad.
And by the amount of stuff that appears to have gotten done........
You should invite those boys over more often ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 14, 2016, 05:43:48 PM
I used a dark gray pastel chalk color to add the grease lines on the highway. I used a soft bristle brush and then rubbed it in with my finger.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172334.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172334.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172351.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172351.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172418.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172418.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172321.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140716172321.jpeg)
Tom,
You are really moving on. I do have one question. I assume that your roads are concrete. As you mention, you are simulating oil stain up the middle of the road. Would that be realistic? That could be a lot of oil. I am only asking because everything out here is backtop. Wouldn't there two lines in each lane exhibiting tire wear versus the oil? Just asking. Don't mean to make more work for you. I love all the details.
I can see what Greg was trying to possibly show by putting the old house in place of the cracker house. It looks a bit out of place due to the scale. I might work if it was a bit smaller to show greater depth perception.
Keep up the great work, my friend. Love all that greenery.
Frank / Erieman
Frank...
I suppose the period he is modeling makes a difference. Before the 1970's all cars had engine breathers that just dumped over the side on the road. Most cars were pretty grease encrusted by 30K miles.
Today all of that is captured and run back through the engine so we just don't have the sort of stripes that there used to be.
see ya
Bob
Quote from: bparrish on July 14, 2016, 06:43:43 PM
Frank...
I suppose the period he is modeling makes a difference. Before the 1970's all cars had engine breathers that just dumped over the side on the road. Most cars were pretty grease encrusted by 30K miles.
Today all of that is captured and run back through the engine so we just don't have the sort of stripes that there used to be.
see ya
Bob
Bob,
Thanks for update on roads. As I mentioned, we only have blacktop, so we would not see anything like this, but i believe Florida has a bunch of concrete roads. Tom is always right.
Frank / Erieman
Tom
You are moving along - it looks great! Just think how far along you would be with good help! Sure looks like you guys having fun with it - that's what counts.
Roads look great. I have some concrete roads in my not-too-distant future and only hope they look half as good!
Marty
Looks like you have that "it's all in the details" down pat. 8)
Your roads and how they disappear in the backdrop is just gorgeous.
Quote from: bparrish on July 14, 2016, 05:54:35 PM
I dunno Tom..
If you aren't careful you are going to end up with a real railroad.
And by the amount of stuff that appears to have gotten done........
You should invite those boys over more often ! ! !
see ya
Bob
Bob,
Thanks for checking in. Don't we all strive to have a layout that looks somewhat real?
Actually the guys only helped me with the photo backdrop. All scenery is only done by me. Mainly due to I know what I want so its easier for me to just do it instead of supervising someone else.
I'm pretty much of a GDI - Gosh Darn Independant when it comes to my railroad.
Tom
Tom,
You are really moving on. I do have one question. I assume that your roads are concrete. As you mention, you are simulating oil stain up the middle of the road. Would that be realistic? That could be a lot of oil. I am only asking because everything out here is backtop. Wouldn't there two lines in each lane exhibiting tire wear versus the oil? Just asking. Don't mean to make more work for you. I love all the details.
I can see what Greg was trying to possibly show by putting the old house in place of the cracker house. It looks a bit out of place due to the scale. I might work if it was a bit smaller to show greater depth perception.
Keep up the great work, my friend. Love all that greenery.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
I appreciate the kind words sir. Yes, the roadway is concrete and yes the oil/grease stains look like what I've done.
Reference the tire marks, they do show on the actual highways but are very faint. Here the oil/grease is more evident. Next time I'm out on old HWY 441 I'll get a photo of the lines down the middle. I'm not always correct but I weathered the concrete road as they appear here in Florida.
Greg wasn't trying to show anything. HA, he just wanted to mess with me. Turn about is fair play here with the SBG. It's all fun and good.
I have more pictures but need to get them in the cache and edited.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on July 14, 2016, 09:15:49 PM
Tom
You are moving along - it looks great! Just think how far along you would be with good help! Sure looks like you guys having fun with it - that's what counts.
John,
Yes, I've been moving along quite nicely these past few weeks. I try to spend at least 6-9 hours a day working on the layout.
Good help is hard to come by but then I'm the hold up as I prefer to do it all myself. I'm quite the loner that way.
Thanks for the compliment, I appreciate the feedback.
Tom ;D
Quote from: CVSNE on July 15, 2016, 07:58:53 AM
Roads look great. I have some concrete roads in my not-too-distant future and only hope they look half as good!
Marty
Marty,
Thank you, very much appreciate the support. With what I've seen on your layout and your talent, I'm quite confident you will have no problems with your concrete roads. However, if you need any information I'll be most happy to help.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 15, 2016, 08:33:39 AM
Looks like you have that "it's all in the details" down pat. 8)
Greg,
Thanks very much. I'm still finding things to add here and there.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on July 15, 2016, 08:59:43 AM
Your roads and how they disappear in the backdrop is just gorgeous.
Quote from: Janbouli on July 15, 2016, 08:59:43 AM
Your roads and how they disappear in the backdrop is just gorgeous.
Jan,
Thank you, much appreciated. The little things seem to add up to the overall effect of the scene. The disappearing roads sure give it another look. In this case it all seemed to come together for the good.
I haven't forgot the files but my IT guy has been out of town.
Tom
We have heard of Tom Terrific, Tom Thumb etc. BUT there is only ONE "Realistic Tom"....!!!!
Quote from: Donato on July 15, 2016, 01:01:43 PM
We have heard of Tom Terrific, Tom Thumb etc. BUT there is only ONE "Realistic Tom"....!!!!
Donato,
Very clever, thanks for stopping by and checking the thread.
Tom ;D
I came across two rural mail boxes. They are old Shelly mail boxes. I think I've had these for about the past 50+ years and now have a spot for them.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162146.jpeg)
The next area of scenery I'm tackling is the throat of the West Yard.
In this photo the large Sinners Mill fits up against the wall to the right.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162201.jpeg)
I marked off where the Mill fits and painted the white glue on the plywood and then did the first layer of ground cover. The ground cover is Woodland Scenics fine turf. I used either the brown of light green. Once the matte medium is applied and dry the ground cover dries darker.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162331.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
When this dried, I applied a liberal dose of matte medium.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162347.jpeg)
While the matte medium is still wet I add various textures of scenic materials. Fast forward and here is where I am at this point.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162423.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162439.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162401.jpeg)
More weeds and small bushes need to be added as well.
More in a few.
This morning Jim and his lovely wife, Claire, came by to drop off two tons of Floquil concrete. Jim also brought one ton of Floquil D&H Gray.
Thanks very much Jimmillho.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162453.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162453.jpeg)
Let me back up here and say that I scratch built a small structure. Call it a crossing shanty, shed or whatever. Almost at all crossings, Mr. Sellios has one of these small structures. So, I'm a copy cat here.
I drew it out, cut it out and braced it as well as adding the corner trim.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161426.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161426.jpeg)
I taped off the bottom boards and painted the top with thinned Floquil Reefer White. When dry, I removed the tape and painted the bottom four boards with Floquil Reading Green.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161440.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161440.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161455.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110716161455.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
And here is where it will go.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716163049.jpeg)
More to follow and pictures tomorrow afternoon.
Tom, this has been a real treat so far to watch your railroad come together. Thanks for sharing all this with us. Keep up the great work as well.
I saw the shed yesterday, and far be from me to ask "where is the Roof?"
Jim
Lovely shed Tom.
looking very good so far ;)
Quote from: coors2u on July 16, 2016, 09:28:17 PM
Tom, this has been a real treat so far to watch your railroad come together. Thanks for sharing all this with us. Keep up the great work as well.
Dustin,
Thank you for the kind words of support, much appreciated. This has been fun and I'm happy to share.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on July 17, 2016, 12:36:15 PM
I saw the shed yesterday, and far be from me to ask "where is the Roof?"
Jim
Jim,
What, you mean to say someone stole my roof? I guess I'll just have to build one more. 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: Pol.lux on July 17, 2016, 12:41:49 PM
Lovely shed Tom.
looking very good so far ;)
Polux,
Thanks very much! Thanks for checking the thread.
Tom ;D
I decided to give myself one foot of real estate between structures. The area would be to the left of Sinners Mill.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162423.jpeg)
I won't bore anyone with one tree planting at a time but here is what I added.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170716160541.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170716160555.jpeg)
I see I'll need to add more A&I wast to the mill as it is to clean. I does have two coats of A&I on now but I'll add some dark pastel chalks also.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170716160612.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Quote from: jimmillho on July 17, 2016, 12:36:15 PM
I saw the shed yesterday, and far be from me to ask "where is the Roof?"
Jim
There's a slight back order for solar panels so the roof will have to wait. ;)
Now, what structure to build for the space left of the trees?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170716160630.jpeg)
I have three choices for a structure in that area. All of them are FOS background models.
Three background fillers.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162541.jpeg)
Foley & Co. Lithographers and Buckeye Ribbon and Carbon Co.
I'll leave it open as to the one I chose. It will involved a kit bash for sure.
More in a few.
Quote from: BandOGuy on July 17, 2016, 04:21:03 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on July 17, 2016, 12:36:15 PM
I saw the shed yesterday, and far be from me to ask "where is the Roof?"
Jim
There's a slight back order for solar panels so the roof will have to wait. ;)
Chip,
Good to see you my friend. The roof is under consideration for the solar panel, well, maybe not but good idea. The time frame is way off though. 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Yep, I'm adding yet another dirt/sandy road. This one will be used to service Yard Office Two and the Signal Tower.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162555.jpeg)
I covered the area with the DAP spackle.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162611.jpeg)
When the spackle dried I painted the area with white glue and then added some Florida sand. Its a different color and consistency. I stole it from a local playground. :-[ :-[
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170716160644.jpeg)
You can see the glue is drying and the road is starting to look like a sandy road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170716160706.jpeg)
As much as I try, I still get all the stuff all over the place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170716160756.jpeg)
The good news is that it is all coming together as planned.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160716162624.jpeg)
Tom
You are moving right along once again. The layout is really looking good. I need to get down there and see it in person one of the winters.
Wow. Looks a lot more "complete". Very nice. I'll definitely connect with you when I get back from Alaska. Thumbs up.
John
Tom,
Have you ever tried to add colouring directly in the sparkling?
And/or mix the sand directly into the wet sparkle or sprinkle on top when it is still wet?
Marty
Wouldn't this make a great model magazine cover?
dave
Quote from: S&S RR on July 17, 2016, 09:49:14 PM
Tom
You are moving right along once again. The layout is really looking good. I need to get down there and see it in person one of the winters.
John,
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, I've been very busy of late just trying to get a good start the scenery.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on July 18, 2016, 07:57:37 AM
Wow. Looks a lot more "complete". Very nice. I'll definitely connect with you when I get back from Alaska. Thumbs up.
John
Butty John,
Thank you, much appreciated. I think it does look better in person than the photos show. Look forward to seeing you. Have a wonderful two weeks in Alaska.
Tom ;D
Quote from: M&K Railway on July 18, 2016, 09:52:25 AM
Tom,
Have you ever tried to add colouring directly in the sparkling?
And/or mix the sand directly into the wet sparkle or sprinkle on top when it is still wet?
Marty
Marty,
Great questions.
1. No, I've never tried to add any color to the spackle. Color spackle has a "I'll give it a try down the road" feel.
2. Yes, I have tried to sprinkle some dirt directly on the wet spackle but didn't like the results at all. The dirt needed to be pressed into the spackle a little as it isn't wet enough to absorb the dirt. I've never thought of mixing the sand into the spackle but I doubt I could get the mix correct without wasting much of both.
Thanks for stopping by.
Tom ;D
Quote from: deemery on July 18, 2016, 09:53:18 AM
Wouldn't this make a great model magazine cover?
dave
Dave,
It possibly could but I still see the bare plywood. The area is now scenery covered but I'm with you. Send over the photographer. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Today I got much more completed on the layout but have no photo to show. I'm waiting for stuff to dry so it looks photogenic.
I've been using small Dixie cups to sprinkle some of the scenery material. I would half fill the cup with scenery stuff and use my fingers to sprinkle it around. I would then dump the cup contents back into the bottle and start over next time.
I discovered the Dixie cups will fit into the throat of the bottle. This has saved time from filling and dumping.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170716160722.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170716160744.jpeg)
However, this only works with the Woodland Scenics bottles and NOT the Scenic Express bottles.
No need to ask how I know this.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180716184014.jpeg)
The road is finally starting to dry. I added the 4X12's for the crossing boards. I also added some basic scenery material along and around the track and road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181444.jpeg)
Much more scenery and detail items will be added to the area around the Yard Office.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181458.jpeg)
Fast forward and the dirt road is finally dry. I've added the water tank as this is the distance from the station where the steam engines stop.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181515.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I want to add a small structure to the left of the water tank between the two tracks. I didn't want to add yet another track crossing. The Judge suggested having the road run behind the water tank and very close to the track.
I agreed with the suggestion and drew the road outline on the basic scenery.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181546.jpeg)
I then spread some white glue where the new added dirt road will be.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181601.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181614.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The first layer of playground sand was added to the top of the white glue and allowed to dry overnight.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181632.jpeg)
I then wet it with "wet water" and added the matte medium as a glue for the dirt.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181645.jpeg)
After the matte medium was added, I sprinkled on the Scenic Express Fine Dirt and let this dry over night.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181645.jpeg)
More in a few. Diet Pepsi time.
Here is how the new dirt road looks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181704.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181736.jpeg)
The water tank is in place (temporarily) and a little more scenery was added. Much more still to go. It never seems to stop when you try to make it look like a real railroad.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181752.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181807.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181822.jpeg)
Here is what I plan to put at the end of the new dirt road. This structure is the FOS Juniper Freight Station, QK #37.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716085904.jpeg)
The kit is designed to fit between two tracks. However, on this build it will sit next to only one track.
A separate build thread will be done for this freight house.
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 21, 2016, 06:31:54 PM
The first layer of playground sand was added to the top of the white glue and allowed to dry overnight.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181632.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181632.jpeg)
I then wet it with "wet water" and added the matte medium as a glue for the dirt.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181645.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181645.jpeg)
After the matte medium was added, I sprinkled on the Scenic Express Fine Dirt and let this dry over night.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181645.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-210716181645.jpeg)
More in a few. Diet Pepsi time.
Tom,
There's a New England prototype for your dark brown dirt road.
By tradition, the oldest cross country road still in use in the US is less than 500 yards from our condo: Old Sandwich Road dating back to the early 1630's. It has never been paved. Couple of times a year, after heavy traffic and the resulting washboarding of the road, the Town of Plymouth comes down with a scraper and levels the hard packed dirt, AND waters it to finish the job and reduce dust for a few days. The result looks just like your newly built roadway when the job is completed.
No more trivia for tonight, I promise.
That will be another great scene.
This is all coming together beautifully! I'm really enjoying the way you're documenting how you're doing everything. I'll bet the Judge enjoys running those beautiful trains thru that wonderful scenery.
Quote from: Janbouli on July 22, 2016, 07:20:14 AM
That will be another great scene.
Jan,
Thanks for stopping by. I agree and it will be another opportunity for switching as well.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on July 21, 2016, 09:45:23 PM
Tom,
There's a New England prototype for your dark brown dirt road.
By tradition, the oldest cross country road still in use in the US is less than 500 yards from our condo: Old Sandwich Road dating back to the early 1630's. It has never been paved. Couple of times a year, after heavy traffic and the resulting washboarding of the road, the Town of Plymouth comes down with a scraper and levels the hard packed dirt, AND waters it to finish the job and reduce dust for a few days. The result looks just like your newly built roadway when the job is completed.
No more trivia for tonight, I promise.
Chip,
I love history and just imagine the stories that road can tell. Thank you for sharing it.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on July 22, 2016, 08:27:30 AM
This is all coming together beautifully! I'm really enjoying the way you're documenting how you're doing everything. I'll bet the Judge enjoys running those beautiful trains thru that wonderful scenery.
Bob,
I'm very happy to be getting many things done now. The Judge enjoys watching what I do but we all know he loves running the trains.
See if you can make it by next Saturday, July 30.
I want your opinion on how it looks without looking through the camera.
Tom ;D
Hey there Mr. Tom, Thing are really looking great. You are really getting a lot done!! Watching how things are coming together on the ACL is giving me the incentive to get back into getting more things done on the Pennsy . Great job.
Bill
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on July 23, 2016, 04:58:34 AM
Hey there Mr. Tom, Thing are really looking great. You are really getting a lot done!! Watching how things are coming together on the ACL is giving me the incentive to get back into getting more things done on the Pennsy . Great job.
Bill
Butty Bill,
Thanks very much, I appreciate the kind words. Yes, I've been busy working on the layout. I find I can be out here for 8+ hours and it feels like I've only been here for a few minutes.
Again, thank you my friend.
Tom ;D
Doing well Tom.....can't wait to see in next Saturday. 8)
Tom,
The scenery is coming along nicely, I especially appreciate the continuity, there is a flow and nothing looks out of place. Your foreground work makes Joey's backdrop blend in as opposed to the other way around.
The busloads of mostly overweight men next year are really going to be impressed.
Bob
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 23, 2016, 10:06:58 AM
Doing well Tom.....can't wait to see in next Saturday. 8)
Butty Greg,
Thanks very much, I'd like your opinion on the scenery when you see it. Never to late to fix an issue.
Tom ;D
Quote from: RWL on July 23, 2016, 08:48:36 PM
Tom,
The scenery is coming along nicely, I especially appreciate the continuity, there is a flow and nothing looks out of place. Your foreground work makes Joey's backdrop blend in as opposed to the other way around.
The busloads of mostly overweight men next year are really going to be impressed.
Bob
Bob,
Thank you very much for the very kind words. I know you don't hand out compliments often so I'm very encouraged that I'm on the correct path for the look I'm after. Joey's background certainly looks good with some scenery. I think they are a great fit.
Geez, Busloads? I hope a few vans and not busloads. I'm confident there will be many overweight gents coming.
Tom ;D
I have a few things to report and show.
I added a little scenery (shrubs and flowers) and a small tree to the front of Sinners Mill. I also had a wooden fence left over from one of the FSM dioramas. The fence is between the Sinners and Varick.
I still need to weather the concrete pad, add a few signs to the fence and add a few other details to the area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240716173021.jpeg)
I added some standing water to both sides of the road at Eaton's Curve. The water is Floquil Crystal-Cote.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240716173038.jpeg)
More in a few.
I added a basket ball hoop to the utility pole for the cracker kids.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240716173052.jpeg)
I got the hoop from Vectorcut. http://www.vectorcut.com/RR.htm (http://www.vectorcut.com/RR.htm)
Check out his site as he has many very unusual detail parts to offer.
This little signal tower is my next project. I need to bring it up to date with many details so it will fit in. I built this tower from an article in MRR some 37 years ago. Man, where does the time go?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240716175824.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240716175731.jpeg)
Karl S. also built this one but his has many fantastic details added. So you can see I have a long way to go.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240716182725.jpeg)
I've been practicing uploading videos. I'd like to start showing video updates as well as still photos of the Atlantic and Southern.
Here is an earlier video of Eaton's Curve prior to the track side scenery being finished. If successful, I'll update this one with a few new ones of the newly scenicked areas.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_HbLLolHD0
Tom,
Wow! Very good video of the ACL passenger train. I like the Fluorescent Interior lighting. Thanx Thom...
Tom
Love the video. How about a few posts on what you have learned about posting video. I haven't tried it yet and would love to learn from your experience. Taking the video's is easy with the iPhone but how do you post them?
Tom...
Pretty cool
Thanx
Bob
Quote from: tct855 on July 24, 2016, 09:05:26 PM
Tom,
Wow! Very good video of the ACL passenger train. I like the Fluorescent Interior lighting. Thanx Thom...
Thom,
Thanks, much appreciated. The fluorescent lighting is a strip of LED's. I did this long before Walthers came out with their LED light bars.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on July 24, 2016, 10:28:28 PM
Tom
Love the video. How about a few posts on what you a learning about posting video. I haven't tried it yet and would love to learn from your experience. Taking the video's is easy with the iPhone but how do you post them?
John,
Thanks, here is what I did.
1. Opened my g-mail account.
2. Signed up with Youtube. Be sure you check "public" so others can see it.
3. Put my video on Youtube.
4. Went to my Youtube video and copied it (url) to the forum. Its just like doing a photo.
Forum's server would have to be mega huge to support videos and very costly.
Hope this helps.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on July 25, 2016, 06:33:51 PM
Quote from: S&S RR on July 24, 2016, 10:28:28 PM
Tom
Love the video. How about a few posts on what you a learning about posting video. I haven't tried it yet and would love to learn from your experience. Taking the video's is easy with the iPhone but how do you post them?
John,
Thanks, here is what I did.
1. Opened my g-mail account.
2. Signed up with Youtube. Be sure you check "public" so others can see it.
3. Put my video on Youtube.
4. Went to my Youtube video and copied it (url) to the forum. Its just like doing a photo.
Forum's server would have to be mega huge to support videos and very costly.
Hope this helps.
Tom ;D
Thanks Tom
Great video!
Only one thing bothers me: are all those snowbirds north or south bound? :-\
Quote from: BandOGuy on July 25, 2016, 08:08:46 PM
Great video!
Only one thing bothers me: are all those snowbirds north or south bound? :-\
Chip,
Thanks for the thumbs up. The snowbirds are headed back your way. ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Today I decided to finish the West Yard area. Here is where I left off.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260716181144.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260716181200.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260716181214.jpeg)
I started by applying a rust mix to the outside rails of each track. I then added a weathering mix From Hunterline - Creosote Black to the inside of the rails and on top of the ties.
More in a few.
I applied the scenery in the yard area as I explained earlier in the build. No need to repeat all of it here.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260716181240.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260716181308.jpeg)
Notice how darker the new area looks compared to the old section? This is due to the matte medium still being wet. Tomorrow it will all blend together.
In the mean time, the yard area is off limits to the Judge.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260716181322.jpeg)
Tom - Always enjoy seeing you progress. It's a great layout. Someday I am going to schedule a visit when we are in Florida. Jim
Quote from: jrmueller on July 26, 2016, 06:46:49 PM
Tom - Always enjoy seeing you progress. It's a great layout. Someday I am going to schedule a visit when we are in Florida. Jim
Jim,
Thank you, much appreciated. And, thank you for checking in. You are welcome anytime you are in the Sunshine State. I'm not going anywhere soon, if at all.
Tom ;D
I decided to add another 6 inches to the tree line in the photo below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-170716160630.jpeg)
I added the base scenery and when it dries I'll add a few more trees and under brush to the area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260716191652.jpeg)
The spot to the left of this area will be reserved for a small scratch build with another one of Reading Bob's wonderful signs. More on the scratch build later - couple of weeks.
More in a few.
To the left of the scratch build, I'll have FOS's Forley & Co. Lithographers.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260716191706.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260716191721.jpeg)
I planted the trees in the new area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280716204704.jpeg)
On Wednesday, The Judge helped me install the fascia on the west section. It still needs to be painted.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280716204635.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280716204649.jpeg)
More in a few.
I finally finished the roof on the small track side structure.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280716204759.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280716204812.jpeg)
I added weeds and shrubs to the side of Sinners Mill.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280716204718.jpeg)
Here are a couple of extra pictures. Nothing to tell here.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280716204733.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280716204745.jpeg)
Tom,
What do you mean there is nothing to tell here....it looks fantastic !! 8) 8) 8)
Question on your RR support structures and stations, does the A&S have standard colors for them ? What are they ? Always green & white from what vendor's paint ?
Tommy
I love what you're doing Tom , coming together so well. Very inspiring in the same way as Karl's kitbuilding.
Quote from: tom.boyd.125 on July 28, 2016, 09:24:31 PM
Tom,
What do you mean there is nothing to tell here....it looks fantastic !! 8) 8) 8)
Question on your RR support structures and stations, does the A&S have standard colors for them ? What are they ? Always green & white from what vendor's paint ?
Tommy
Tommy,
Thank you for the very kind compliment. The stations and most of the RR related structures are white with green trim. These are the colors the ACL had prior to the 1967 merger with SAL to become the SCL. ACL had colors through the years of white/grey, white/brown, white/purple and finally the white/green.
I'm fortunate enough to have plenty of Floquil paints. The Atlantic and Southern RR uses Floquil Reefer White with Floquil Dark Green or Reading Green. The two greens are pretty much the same color.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on July 28, 2016, 09:36:46 PM
I love what you're doing Tom , coming together so well. Very inspiring in the same way as Karl's kitbuilding.
Jan,
Your compliment is much appreciated. I've been inspired by your layout as well. Karl's work is in a category I hope only to get close to in the coming years.
Tom ;D
I'm fortunate enough to have plenty of Floquil paints. The Atlantic and Southern RR uses Floquil Reefer White with Floquil Dark Green or Reading Green. The two greens are pretty much the same color.
Tom ;D
As ReadingBob will testify, Reading Green is unlike any other green in the world. ::)
Quote from: BandOGuy on July 29, 2016, 01:50:26 PM
I'm fortunate enough to have plenty of Floquil paints. The Atlantic and Southern RR uses Floquil Reefer White with Floquil Dark Green or Reading Green. The two greens are pretty much the same color.
Tom ;D
As ReadingBob will testify, Reading Green is unlike any other green in the world. ::)
Chipper,
That is certainly a possibility. The Floquil Dark Green and Reading Green are in fact a close match. But then what do I know, I think purple is a wonderful color like no other. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
I'm still working on the video camera. I have an HD Sony handycam. I've notice when the subject being filmed is moving, the camera doesn't focus as fast as I would like.
The Judge and I shot four videos and this one is acceptable. The others are still on the cutting room floor.
I'm on the camera and the Judge is at the throttle. The freight train is blowing for three crossing.
https://youtu.be/Bh7AgAGT8ZE
Nice video Tom. I am sure there will more footage as time goes on. It will be nice to see the layout on Saturday.
Bill
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on July 29, 2016, 07:36:50 PM
Nice video Tom. I am sure there will more footage as time goes on. It will be nice to see the layout on Saturday.
Bill
Butty Bill,
Thank you. I have one more video and then its back to serious modeling on the layout. The videos are time consuming, something I don't have time for. 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
On the west side of the West yard, I plan to have a road for the structure flats. This area is 4.5 inches wide and 7.5 feet long.
I'm planning on having the Central Valley fence along this 7.5 feet. The fence will push the viewing back to the yard and layout. It will also create a scene beyond the fence.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300716175021.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300716175035.jpeg)
More in a few.
Tom
The videos look great - I know what you mean the video and picture taking can get in the way of the modeling. Thanks for taking the time to share it with us.
Quote from: S&S RR on July 30, 2016, 07:35:07 PM
Tom
The videos look great - I know what you mean the video and picture taking can get in the way of the modeling. Thanks for taking the time to share it with us.
John,
Thank you and you are welcome. As you know with all the pictures we took of the F&SM it does take time to get them up.
Tom ;D
Well, I guess I forgot to hit the "post" button on the last post.
I'm in the process of scratch building a small structure using another one of Reading Bob's fantastic signs. Here is the build as of this afternoon.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300716175051.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300716175104.jpeg)
And, here is the last video you'll have to suffer. As John and i just stated it takes a lot of time. Time at this point I don't want to waste any more of. I need to learn how to clean and edit but again, it takes time, something I don't have time for.
Notice the jerky helicopter near the end and the giant thumb?
https://youtu.be/qxuvuO-tL0E
Nice looking passenger train in the video. Complete interiors and passengers, too.
Jeff
Hey Tom, another great looking sign!
.....beautiful work!!
wouw great i love it
It was fun seeing the gang and your progress up close & personnel. Great work to date and I imagine some fun surprises in the future. 8) 8) 8)
Cool video of the full train.
Jim
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on July 30, 2016, 09:44:58 PM
Nice looking passenger train in the video. Complete interiors and passengers, too.
Jeff
Looks like the RR broke even that day revenue wise!!
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on July 30, 2016, 09:44:58 PM
Nice looking passenger train in the video. Complete interiors and passengers, too.
Jeff
Dr. Jeff,
Thank you very much. I only took four takes. :'(
Tom ;D
Quote from: ak-milw on July 31, 2016, 12:41:31 AM
Hey Tom, another great looking sign!
Andy,
Thanks, Reading Bob really came through with the signs.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jlgrove on July 31, 2016, 07:20:01 AM
.....beautiful work!!
Groovy Jeff,
Thank you, very much appreciate your support and kind words.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ger deguelle on July 31, 2016, 08:08:54 AM
wouw great i love it
Ger,
Thank you, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on July 31, 2016, 09:54:30 AM
It was fun seeing the gang and your progress up close & personnel. Great work to date and I imagine some fun surprises in the future. 8) 8) 8)
Butty Greg,
Yes, we had great fun yesterday and thank you for the kind compliment on the work.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on July 31, 2016, 11:02:11 AM
Cool video of the full train.
Jim
Butty Jim,
Thanks very much. The train was so full we had to have two baggage cars.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on July 31, 2016, 02:08:52 PM
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on July 30, 2016, 09:44:58 PM
Nice looking passenger train in the video. Complete interiors and passengers, too.
Jeff
Looks like the RR broke even that day revenue wise!!
Donato,
I certainly hope so and they drank almost all of my Diet Pepsi. Then those little people wanted a contract for appearing in the video. I said, "Ya'll can ride or walk, you choose."
That settled the issue.
Tom ;D 8)
I painted the side walls on the new scratch build. I used Scalecoat for the walls. The color I chose is Terra-Cotta. This is a new color for Scalecoat paint.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310716153912.jpeg)
I used a 1/4" brush to apply the paint. I dipped the tip of the brush in the paint and then dipped it in Scalecoat thinner. I brushed the thinned paint on the walls. While the paint was still damp, I used a paper towel to wipe off all I could. I wiped horizontally with the wood and not vertically.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310716153928.jpeg)
After finishing both walls and prior to the Terra-Cotta paint drying, I repeated the process with full strength Floquil Driftwood.
There is quite a difference in the color. The color, after the driftwood, is very much like very faded paint. Here is how it looks so you get an idea of the difference.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310716153942.jpeg)
Continued in an hour or so. Time to put the burgers and chicken on the grill. Also, time for an ice cold Diet Pepsi.
Hi Tom:
Is this paint flat? If so do they make other flat colors. I thought all their paint was glossy.
Thanks:
karl
Quote from: postalkarl on July 31, 2016, 05:02:56 PM
Hi Tom:
Is this paint flat? If so do they make other flat colors. I thought all their paint was glossy.
Thanks:
karl
Karl,
Great question. I have no idea. I tried it on some scrap Northeastern and Kappler scribed siding with the same results. It appears to be flat out of the bottle. Not taking into consideration the "wet" look when applied.
I currently have RR Grime #1, (looks like a match to Aged Concrete), RR Grime #2(kind of gray green), Sand, MOW Gray, and on back order is Ivory and Cream. All appear to be flat when dry.
Tom ;D
Here is a look at the walls when completely dry. The color is very faded as I mentioned and the sheen is flat.
No A&I has been applied at all, nor is there any dry brushing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310716154000.jpeg)
I just have the pieces leaning on each other in the next photo. The bay door actually goes on the other side.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310716154013.jpeg)
I also added a gable end to the sign wall and the other gable is drying under the weights. The two standing walls are being glued as well.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-310716154029.jpeg)
This structure has 25 windows. I'm ordering them from Tichy.
I think if you put it on thin enough every paint will look flat on wood, I have spray painted structures with gloss paint and it is flat if I don't put layer after layer on.
The green and red on Mel's was done with a gloss spray can. Just one spray though, so the wood sucks it up , dead flat.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.janbouli.com%2Fimages%2Fgebouwen%2Fmels%2Fmels6.jpg&hash=a60f0d927076cf106ee5c046477662fa89308205)
Quote from: Janbouli on August 01, 2016, 04:12:11 PM
I think if you put it on thin enough every paint will look flat on wood, I have spray painted structures with gloss paint and it is flat if I don't put layer after layer on.
The green and red on Mel's was done with a gloss spray can. Just one spray though, so the wood sucks it up , dead flat.
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.janbouli.com%2Fimages%2Fgebouwen%2Fmels%2Fmels6.jpg&hash=a60f0d927076cf106ee5c046477662fa89308205) (http://www.janbouli.com/images/gebouwen/mels/mels6.jpg)
Jan,
I think you may be correct in that the wood soaks up the paint to prevent the build up for the gloss.
Tom ;D
Tom & Karl
Scalecoat does have a series of flats (basic flat colors) that were contracted by Jeff Adam of Motrak Models a few years ago. Since the sale of Scalecoat by Minuteman from Weaver, I think Shawn has expanded the series to more colors.
Bob
Quote from: RWL on August 01, 2016, 08:57:07 PM
Tom & Karl
Scalecoat does have a series of flats (basic flat colors) that were contracted by Jeff Adam of Motrak Models a few years ago. Since the sale of Scalecoat by Minuteman from Weaver, I think Shawn has expanded the series to more colors.
Bob
Bob,
Thanks for the information. I forgot Jeff had the extra colors.
Tom ;D
This morning I had to remove a short section of mainline track.
The track had a kink at the rail joiners. I tried to repair it in place but gave up to get it correct.
I removed a five inch section.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816163249.jpeg)
Prior to removing the track I made four rail cuts five inches, 2.5", on each side of the rail joiners.
I then wet the ballast with a misting of warm water and let is sit for 20 minutes. I then used a #11 blade to cut the ballast down the sides of the ties. The track came out easy peasy,
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816163304.jpeg)
I got a short section of left over track. I never throw away any track of three inches or more. Unless of course it is damaged.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816163318.jpeg)
More in a few.
I cut the new piece to fit in the opening.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816163332.jpeg)
I use code 83 track. For rail joiners I use Atlas code 55 "N" scale rail joiners. They give me a nice tight fit as opposed to the code 83 rail joiners.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816163346.jpeg)
I cut the rail joiners very close to the ends.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816163400.jpeg)
More in a few.
I push the end ties in towards the center and slip on the rail joiners. I fit the rail joiners flush with the ends of the rails.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816163436.jpeg)
The track is then put in place and the rail joiners are slid onto the other four rails.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816191534.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816163451.jpeg)
The ties are then pushed out and adjusted. I use a 9 inch Ribbon Rail to align the track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816163509.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Once I'm satisfied with the alignment, I remove the Ribbon Rail and use a couple of ME track spikes to secure the track.
I then use my level car to ensure the rails are level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816163523.jpeg)
I then soldered the feeders back to the rails.
Tomorrow I'll fill in the ties and add new ballast.
Quote from: ACL1504 on August 02, 2016, 04:12:31 PM
Quote from: RWL on August 01, 2016, 08:57:07 PM
Tom & Karl
Scalecoat does have a series of flats (basic flat colors) that were contracted by Jeff Adam of Motrak Models a few years ago. Since the sale of Scalecoat by Minuteman from Weaver, I think Shawn has expanded the series to more colors.
Bob
Bob,
Thanks for the information. I forgot Jeff had the extra colors.
Tom ;D
Hope this helps.
From Model Railroad Hobbyist, you might find this link helpful:
http://mrhpub.com/2016-08-aug/online/ Might save some time and aggravation.
Tom,
Jeff no longer carries Scalecoat since the company was sold, strictly Minuteman now.
Bob
Quote from: RWL on August 03, 2016, 08:46:38 AM
Tom,
Jeff no longer carries Scalecoat since the company was sold, strictly Minuteman now.
Bob
Okay, thanks - I didn't know that.
I took a short piece of rail, filed the base down so a rail joiner would slip on it more smoothly. Then I drilled and glued the other end into a dowel. I use this "tool" to open rail joiners, sliding a joiner onto the rail-in-dowel tool with pliers, and then wiggling it appropriately until it's easy to slip on and off the rail.
dave
Dave,
The rail joiner tool is really handy. I have one I made but don't use it on the code 83 rail with the "N" scale code 80 rail joiners. I like them to fit very tight from the start. I do on occasion need to use needle nose pliers to get one on.
Thanks for adding the tool idea to the thread for others whom may not know about it.
Tom ;D
I've been working on the area around the wonderful FSM station Reading Bob built for me.
I've glued the cork base down and now need to "pour" some concrete.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152026.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152105.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152050.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The rear of the station has a small freight dock and dirt road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152402.jpeg)
I need to add dirt to the road across the tracks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152417.jpeg)
There, I added "dirt" to the road. 8) 8) 8)
More in a few.
I plan to add some passenger sheds to the station. I have many of the FOS Passenger Platforms/sheds. The FOS platform kit was QK5 and is no longer available.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152433.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152450.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152510.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152529.jpeg)
Time to "pour" some concrete around the station. I used some two ply cardboard for the concrete areas. I got the stuff from Sam Flax Art Supply at a cost of around $3.50 for a 24"X30" piece. The two ply is nice and thick.
You can see I fast forwarded here a little.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152545.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152600.jpeg)
Since I was already cutting the cardboard slabs, I decided to cut the road that will run along the track and behind the fence.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152620.jpeg)
More photos in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152809.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816153817.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152653.jpeg)
Time for a Diet Pepsi break.
Very nice looking station Tom.
Quote from: sdrees on August 05, 2016, 04:11:29 PM
Very nice looking station Tom.
Steve,
Thank you, all the credit goes to Reading Bob for the build. He is the Atlantic and Southern Contractor.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152710.jpeg)
I guess I could replace the station.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152726.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152755.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050816152741.jpeg)
I got the four walls glued together on the Wrigley structure. Not much else I can do on this build until I get all the windows from Tichy.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816163537.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020816163551.jpeg)
Looking great Tom , I really like the dirt
Awesome Concrete pour......I did a lot of that in my youth!!!!
Jim
.....beautifuk work, loving the progress.....
Great progress. I'm trying to figure out a way to say the new area looks awesome without it sounding oddly self serving. :-[ Oh, the heck with it. George should get most of the credit for the station anyway so "Awesome!" :D ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on August 06, 2016, 08:13:40 AM
Great progress. I'm trying to figure out a way to say the new area looks awesome without it sounding oddly self serving. :-[ Oh, the heck with it. George should get most of the credit for the station anyway so "Awesome!" :D ;D
Now where have I seen that Station before ? I have said it before and I will say it again "AWESOME"
It looks Fantastic up close and personnel.
Jim
Tom,
Boy oh boy, you miss the forum for a few days and look what you have completed. You are the man. Do you sleep thinking of what you are going to do next? I know I do. Your station are is going to be utterly fantastic. And I thought I was making good progress, but then I remembered, you are also much younger that i am. Seriously, you are doing a marvelous job on the new layout and awesome progress. Keep up the beautiful work.
Frank / Erieman
Hi tom,
Does Reading Bob work for Diet Pepsi?
Quote from: sdrees on August 06, 2016, 10:37:50 PM
Hi tom,
Does Reading Bob work for Diet Pepsi?
Not this boy. This boy only works for Diet Coke! :D Or BBQ. ;D
BBQ would do it for me. ;D ;D ;D
Jim
Quote from: ak-milw on August 05, 2016, 07:00:00 PM
Looking great Tom , I really like the dirt
Andy,
Thank you, I thought the dirt was a nice touch.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on August 05, 2016, 10:47:23 PM
Awesome Concrete pour......I did a lot of that in my youth!!!!
Jim
Butty Jim,
I even have some concrete paint to use, thanks to you.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jlgrove on August 06, 2016, 07:20:48 AM
.....beautifuk work, loving the progress.....
Jeff,
Thank you sir, your kind words are much appreciated. I am to please! ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Quote from: ReadingBob on August 06, 2016, 08:13:40 AM
Great progress. I'm trying to figure out a way to say the new area looks awesome without it sounding oddly self serving. :-[ Oh, the heck with it. George should get most of the credit for the station anyway so "Awesome!" :D ;D
Butty bob,
Much appreciated, thanks very much. The area looks great and largely thanks to the fantastic job you did in building the A&S RR station. George did release the kit, but you built it.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on August 06, 2016, 11:19:05 AM
Quote from: ReadingBob on August 06, 2016, 08:13:40 AM
Great progress. I'm trying to figure out a way to say the new area looks awesome without it sounding oddly self serving. :-[ Oh, the heck with it. George should get most of the credit for the station anyway so "Awesome!" :D ;D
Now where have I seen that Station before ? I have said it before and I will say it again "AWESOME"
It looks Fantastic up close and personnel.
Jim
Butty Jim,
I'm only assuming you saw it here, right? Bob did a fantastic job on the build.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on August 06, 2016, 06:58:00 PM
Tom,
Boy oh boy, you miss the forum for a few days and look what you have completed. You are the man. Do you sleep thinking of what you are going to do next? I know I do. Your station are is going to be utterly fantastic. And I thought I was making good progress, but then I remembered, you are also much younger that i am. Seriously, you are doing a marvelous job on the new layout and awesome progress. Keep up the beautiful work.
Frank / Erieman
Afternoon Frank,
I enjoyed our conversation this past hour. Thanks for calling.
Yes, I do lie in bed thinking of builds, scenery and what would look best. I don't count sheep or girls, like I did in college, but now it seems RR things occupy my thoughts.
Also, thank you for your very kind words of encouragement on the layout work.
Tom ;D
Quote from: sdrees on August 06, 2016, 10:37:50 PM
Hi tom,
Does Reading Bob work for Diet Pepsi?
Steve,
Like Bob said, he is a Diet Coke man and I, well, you know I'm a DP guy all the way. He hasn't paid for lunch in the past several years. Working for Diet Coke and BBQ seems like I'm getting the best of the deal.
And, I'm not even complaining. 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on August 07, 2016, 09:50:11 AM
Quote from: sdrees on August 06, 2016, 10:37:50 PM
Hi tom,
Does Reading Bob work for Diet Pepsi?
Not this boy. This boy only works for Diet Coke! :D Or BBQ. ;D
A whole new meaning for "I'll work for food." ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on August 07, 2016, 11:22:32 AM
BBQ would do it for me. ;D ;D ;D
Jim
See what I mean? "Will work for food" is universal.
Tom ;D
Today all I did was to paint the roadway and parking area around the station. I used Floquil Concrete. Butty Jimmillho, Jim Miller, was gracious enough to give me two bottles of Floquil Concrete. Thanks again Butty.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080816174058.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080816174111.jpeg)
Tom,
I think you are getting a hell of a deal. And it is only Diet Coke and not beer.
Quote from: sdrees on August 08, 2016, 10:37:20 PM
Tom,
I think you are getting a hell of a deal. And it is only Diet Coke and not beer.
Steve,
I certainly agree with that.
Tom ;D
I have an area that I needed to use a fence to separate the yard tracks and the roadway.
I used the plastic Central Valley fence assortment and chose the wooden fence.
I can't really say I'm pleased with the results but I'll share them anyway.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174805.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174805.jpeg)
I painted the fences with Floquil Primer. I decided to try some new, different for me that is, weathering acrylics from AK Interactive. They were a little pricey but I used a gift card so the blow wasn't to bad.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174821.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174821.jpeg)
When the primer cured, I started the weathering. These are the four colors I chose for the fence weathering process.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174836.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174836.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I put a few drops of each of the four colors on my homemade paint palette.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174854.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174854.jpeg)
I randomly painted a few boards with the burnt umber and then blended in some light gray.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174907.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174907.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174925.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174925.jpeg)
I then blended in some medium brown.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174949.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174949.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Strange that you used plastic for a wood fence Tom, of course you can make plastic look like wood , but making wood look like wood is a bit easier ;)
I then blended in some medium gray and let the fence dry. When dry I applied a heavy coat of Hunterline Creosote Black A&I mix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816175034.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816175034.jpeg)
The fences were then installed next to the roadway. I also added a few signs. I'll go back and cut off some of the individual boards to make the fence look a little more "ratty" or unkept in appearance is you will.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816175105.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816175105.jpeg)
To paint and weather 7 feet of plastic fence, six inches at a time, the results are a bit under whelming.
Quote from: Janbouli on August 20, 2016, 06:09:22 PM
Strange that you used plastic for a wood fence Tom, of course you can make plastic look like wood , but making wood look like wood is a bit easier ;)
Jan,
You, of course, are absolutely correct. I was trying to save time but you get what you pay for. :'( :'( :'( I should say, I got what I paid for. I'm quite confident I'll be replacing the plastic with real strip wood down the road.
Tom ;D
The several hours of work to paint/weather the plastic was pretty much a waste of time. Not much difference in the out of the package fence and the painted fence.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174805.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816174805.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816175051.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816175051.jpeg)
One of the building in the photo backdrop is a closed business with the windows boarded with plywood. Weeds are growing around the bottom of the structure. To give it a little more depth, I added weeds to the edge of the photo and onto the layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816175124.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816175124.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816175143.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816175143.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816175201.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200816175201.jpeg)
I still have plans to weather the road. Just not enough hours on my seven Saturday week.
Hope that isn't the local Pepsi bottling plant that's boarded up! That might explain your supply problem. ;D
I know of two other really good tutorials on painting plastic to look like wood. One was in the NG&SL Gazette back in Jul/Aug '82, and is summarized here: http://members.shaw.ca/brown3980/AcrylicsPainting+Aging.htm
The other was on Harold Minsky's Pacific Coast Airliner website, but I can't find the link. Maybe someone has the link (or has a copy.) His approach was similar using acrylics, but it didn't use the scratch-off approach of the original NG&SL Gazette article (which used Floquil.)
dave
Here is the link to Harold's article on making styrene look like wood. http://www.pacificcoastairlinerr.com/weathered_plastic/
Good Morning Tom,
By now you don't want to hear anything about painting/ weathering plastic fence, BUT. I am not a real fan of plastic as you know. Some time ago we sponsored a contest of modifying a plastic structure. I chose to weather the structure and was quite pleased with the results. I was trying to achieve a weathered look and after some brief experimentation, I came up with the following dry brushing technique. It is quick and easy and the results are not bad, if I don't say so myself. If you are interested, give me a call or if anyone else wants to know, let me know and I'll post a thread on it.
Wonderful looking progress on the layout. Keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/98-220816114219.jpeg)
Quote from: Raymo on August 20, 2016, 07:40:38 PM
Hope that isn't the local Pepsi bottling plant that's boarded up! That might explain your supply problem. ;D
Danno,
Fortunately, it was the Cocoa Cola distribution location. ;D
Tom 8) 8)
Quote from: deemery on August 21, 2016, 11:38:07 AM
I know of two other really good tutorials on painting plastic to look like wood. One was in the NG&SL Gazette back in Jul/Aug '82, and is summarized here: http://members.shaw.ca/brown3980/AcrylicsPainting+Aging.htm (http://members.shaw.ca/brown3980/AcrylicsPainting+Aging.htm)
The other was on Harold Minsky's Pacific Coast Airliner website, but I can't find the link. Maybe someone has the link (or has a copy.) His approach was similar using acrylics, but it didn't use the scratch-off approach of the original NG&SL Gazette article (which used Floquil.)
dave
Dave,
I appreciate the information. I'm not thrilled with the plastic fences but they will do for now.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jerryrbeach on August 22, 2016, 07:43:00 AM
Here is the link to Harold's article on making styrene look like wood. http://www.pacificcoastairlinerr.com/weathered_plastic/ (http://www.pacificcoastairlinerr.com/weathered_plastic/)
Jerry,
Thanks for the information. I've read this article in the past but forgot about it. I actually have it listed in my favorites. Harold's article is probably one of the best.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on August 22, 2016, 11:50:22 AM
Good Morning Tom,
By now you don't want to hear anything about painting/ weathering plastic fence, BUT. I am not a real fan of plastic as you know. Some time ago we sponsored a contest of modifying a plastic structure. I chose to weather the structure and was quite pleased with the results. I was trying to achieve a weathered look and after some brief experimentation, I came up with the following dry brushing technique. It is quick and easy and the results are not bad, if I don't say so myself. If you are interested, give me a call or if anyone else wants to know, let me know and I'll post a thread on it.
Wonderful looking progress on the layout. Keep up the great work.
Frank / Erieman
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/98-220816114219.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/98-220816114219.jpeg)
Frank,
I enjoyed are conversation this afternoon and thanks for the email. I actually did get the email from Jeff. Thanks also for the photo and the compliments on the layout. I plug away a little each day.
Tom ;D
I've been able to get a little more finished on the layout the past few days. The progress has been slow and the only reason I can think of is that I just took a break from all the action.
I got the base and the guard rail up and painted.
I used 6X6 pieces of strip wood and glued them to the outer edge of the station platform areas.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173006.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173006.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173021.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173021.jpeg)
I used Central Valley railing. I spay painted the with Floquil UP Armour Yellow. I was going to use the Floquuil Reefer Yellow but the color was to bright for what I wanted.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173051.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173051.jpeg)
More in a few.
I used the railing posts to mark on the 6X6's where I needed to drill the small post hole.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173124.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173124.jpeg)
When I got all the post holes drilled in the stripwood, I inserted all the railing to make sure they were even or at least looked even. I then removed them and painted the 6X6's with Floquil Concrete. I then reinstalled the railing letting the wet paint be the "glue" to hold them. If I break any of the railing later in construction, I can easily break them out of the paint.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173107.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173107.jpeg)
Continued in a few. I need a Diet Pepsi.
Okay, I'm back and ready to proceed.
I also started work on the passenger platforms. In a couple of places I needed longer sections of base. I cut one for the extra length and then edge glued them together. While the glue was still wet, I then glued strips of 6X10's to the edge of the platform base.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173139.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173139.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173153.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173153.jpeg)
Fast forward and the bases are finished.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173210.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173210.jpeg)
The two longer sections go on the right of the station and the two other ones go on the left.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173223.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173223.jpeg)
I sanded the ends where the platforms span the road. I plan to have the roof extend the entire length of the left platforms and need the roof to keep the passengers dry or at least out of the elements.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173238.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230816173238.jpeg)
That is a cool looking platform Tom.
Jim
Quote from: jimmillho on August 23, 2016, 07:43:08 PM
That is a cool looking platform Tom.
Jim
Jim,
Thanks for stopping by, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
I finished the basic work on the passenger platforms over the past few days.
I got all the support post painted.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185214.jpeg)
The platforms were painted with Floquil Concrete and the edges were painted with Floquil Reefer Yellow.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185230.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185248.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185304.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185304.jpeg)
I think this area will be a great little scene when finished.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185323.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185323.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185337.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185337.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I also decided to add a short dirt road next to the track. I'll show what structure it leads to later in the thread. I have to cut in the road for the building to go up.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185355.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185355.jpeg)
And, I finally got a roof on the Wrigley building. Hopefully in the next month I'll get it shingled.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185412.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-270816185412.jpeg)
Tom,
Your station is coming along quite well. I guess in Florida you need the covered platforms with all the rain you get.
Quote from: sdrees on August 27, 2016, 07:07:37 PM
Tom,
Your station is coming along quite well. I guess in Florida you need the covered platforms with all the rain you get.
Steve,
Thank you kind sir. Yes, we get our share of rain. We got about an inch this afternoon in less than an hour. Time to drain the pool - AGAIN! 8) 8) Oops, I guess I don't need the sun glasses this afternoon. And, its raining again.
Tom ;D
Tom looking nice the station
HI.
Tom, your station is looking very nice and you´ve also done some nice progress on the layout with the roads and scenery.
Thanks for showing the pictures,
Regards,Chris
Quote from: ger deguelle on August 28, 2016, 03:59:21 AM
Tom looking nice the station
Ger,
Thanks very much. I'm looking forward to getting the roofs done.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twist67 on August 28, 2016, 05:51:02 AM
HI.
Tom, your station is looking very nice and you´ve also done some nice progress on the layout with the roads and scenery.
Thanks for showing the pictures,
Regards,Chris
Chris,
Thanks very much. Progress has been a little slow lately but I'll be picking up the pace in the next couple of weeks.
Tom ;D
A history of Florida: http://www.miamiherald.com/living/liv-columns-blogs/dave-barry/article97208577.html
dave
Quote from: deemery on August 28, 2016, 03:16:05 PM
A history of Florida: http://www.miamiherald.com/living/liv-columns-blogs/dave-barry/article97208577.html (http://www.miamiherald.com/living/liv-columns-blogs/dave-barry/article97208577.html)
dave
Dave,
Great article, thanks from the Sunshine State and a Florida Gator.
Tom ;D
Work on the passenger platforms continue.
I'm going to install some of Slim's LEDs under the roof. The model have small notches 1/32" sq. (3x3) for the rafters.I need the roof to be removeable to install and work on the LEDs. If using the 3X3 rafters will prevent me installing the LEDs.
Normally 2X4 "rat runners" would be used. To make the supporting posts stronger, I used scale 8X8 strip wood. The 8X8 strip wood won't be seen anyway.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174314.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174314.jpeg)
After drying, it was time to cut the long roof. I used 1 ply cardboard for the roof. I placed the platform on the cardboard and measured the length and width.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174346.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174346.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
With the last picture, I passed the 1400 mark for pictures on this thread.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174401.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174401.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174443.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174443.jpeg)
I measured and drew a line down the middle and made a very light cut to bend the roof panel.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174456.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174456.jpeg)
A test fit is always a good measure. And, it fit.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174512.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174512.jpeg)
More in a few.
I need to be able to hide the LED wiring. I decided to use brass tubing for the conduit pipe. The brass tubing is 1/8 X .014"
I drilled a 1/8" hole in the bottom of the platform next to the support post.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174536.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174536.jpeg)
I then glued the brass conduit in place next to the post closest to the station. It is on the back side of the post from viewing. You can see I dropped some CAA glue on the platform. I'll repaint this later.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174551.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174551.jpeg)
I then painted the conduit to match the posts.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174604.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174604.jpeg)
Back in a few, Diet Pepsi time.
I didn't want the end of the platform roof section to be open. The main station walls are board and batten so the choice was easy. I cut two end pieces from 3/32" B&B from some Northeastern Scale Lumber.
I used the platform support post as a pattern.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174620.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174620.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174635.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174635.jpeg)
I glued the small board and batten to the underside of the roof panel and painted them white. I then added 2 X 6 exterior rafters and painted them green to match the posts.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174648.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174648.jpeg)
I still need to add the rolled roofing material and then add the LEDs to the rat runners.
Here is a look from ground level. You can barely see the brass conduit on the left behind the post.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174703.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816174703.jpeg)
Not sure if I missed it in your posts Tom , is the platform a kit or is it scratchbuilt or are the posts commercial parts? Anyway they look awesome.
Jan,
Good question, not sure I covered it or not. They are the posts and platform from the FOS Quick Kit #5. These are no longer available.
You can see in the picture the end of the roof is open. This is where and why I opted to change the look.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816184752.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-280816184752.jpeg)
It's rare to see these platforms extend for more than just 1 short passenger car length, even though the prototype would have these for up to a couple hundred feet.
dave
Tom
I stopped by to see what you were up to tonight. You have been very busy! The layout is coming along very nicely. I love how you are creating depth with the backdrops.
great work
Tom,
Looks great. I have to build a similar covered platform so I've been following along closely - particularly your suggestions on accommodating lighting.
Marty
Quote from: deemery on August 28, 2016, 07:56:37 PM
It's rare to see these platforms extend for more than just 1 short passenger car length, even though the prototype would have these for up to a couple hundred feet.
dave
Dave,
Thanks for stopping by. These are just under a car and a half long. The one on the left of the station is about two car lengths.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on August 28, 2016, 08:58:43 PM
Tom
I stopped by to see what you were up to tonight. You have been very busy! The layout is coming along very nicely. I love how you are creating depth with the backdrops.
John,
Thanks for stopping by and catching the updates. Yes, I have been busy and I'll stay busy cause there is so much to do. Also, thank you for the kind compliment on the work. The backdrops and flats sure work in tandem for a great looking little scene.
Tom ;D
Tom,
Good Afternoon,
The passenger shed is looking awesome. No resting on your railroad. Looking forward to the led lighting. Keep up the great work. Talk to you soon, got to get back to my tree planting.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: ger deguelle on August 29, 2016, 01:41:18 AM
great work
Ger,
Thank you very much. Appreciate you following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on August 29, 2016, 06:57:26 PM
Tom,
Good Afternoon,
The passenger shed is looking awesome. No resting on your railroad. Looking forward to the led lighting. Keep up the great work. Talk to you soon, got to get back to my tree planting.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Good evening to you. Afternoon there and evening here. ;D ;D ;D Thank you for the compliment on the passenger sheds. I've started the lighting and will post some pictures in a few minutes.
Now get back to the tree planting. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: CVSNE on August 29, 2016, 12:10:20 PM
Tom,
Looks great. I have to build a similar covered platform so I've been following along closely - particularly your suggestions on accommodating lighting.
Marty
Marty,
Thank you, very much appreciated. I'll be showing some lighting in a few minutes. Hope it will help you.
Tom ;D
I started the lighting for the passenger sheds this afternoon. At first, I was dreading the project. Not sure why but the LED lighting in structures is new to me.
But alas, I just jumped in and started.
I cut several pieces of 8X8 scale strip wood just a little longer than the width of the "rat runners".
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816184555.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816184555.jpeg)
I then drilled two holes close to the center.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816184616.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816184616.jpeg)
I then cut at an angle on each end. This is so there is no interference with the underside of the roof.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816191034.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816191034.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I didn't have enough of the LEDs I got from Slim so I chose to use the Miniatronics surface mount LEDs.
You can also see how I glued the short pieces of 8X8's across the rat runners. Notice the misspelled SURFACE on the card. Maybe Miniatronics should teach the Chinese how to spell.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816184632.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816184632.jpeg)
Note also here that by drilling two holes in the block, the red (+) and the black (-) wires are kept separated.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816184647.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816184647.jpeg)
These surface mounts are bright, even though it states they are yellow glow. I dummy downed the LEDs by painting black paint across the surface and just left a tiny amount of surface to show the light.
More in a few.
Here is how the one light looks with half of my layout lighting off.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816184723.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816184723.jpeg)
And with all the lights off.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816184736.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290816184736.jpeg)
I'll install four more LEDs on the shed.
Really looks nice Tom. Be careful when you have the Room lights off when you and the judge are moving around the layout.
Bill
I think I have been on that platform at night.
That looks great Tom! If I recall correctly I used the same type of surface mount LED's for the exterior lighting on the front of the station. 8)
Yeah, yeah, yeah!!! But how long do I have to wait for that train?!?!?
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on August 30, 2016, 05:40:36 AM
Really looks nice Tom. Be careful when you have the Room lights off when you and the judge are moving around the layout.
Bill
Butty Bill,
Thanks, much appreciated. I never turn out all the lights when the Judge is here. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Quote from: ak-milw on August 30, 2016, 07:20:23 AM
I think I have been on that platform at night.
Andy,
I've spent my time on a few of them as well.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on August 30, 2016, 08:08:47 AM
That looks great Tom! If I recall correctly I used the same type of surface mount LED's for the exterior lighting on the front of the station. 8)
Butty Bob,
Much appreciated, Yes, you did on the station and the little news stand.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on August 30, 2016, 11:26:17 AM
Yeah, yeah, yeah!!! But how long do I have to wait for that train?!?!?
Donato,
Okay, OK and oh yeah! Not sure of the time table on the train as yet. It does come by every so often though. If you find yourself on the platform bring something to eat and read. You may be there a while. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
I finished the lighting in one of three platforms.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300816180144.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300816180202.jpeg)
Reading Bob built the Atlantic and Southern station and installed the lighting.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300816180216.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300816180216.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300816180231.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300816180231.jpeg)
Lights do miracles , don't they.
Tom, layout is coming along nicely, station with lighting looks fantastic. Will be following along.
Jim
Hi Tom:
The station looks great as does the lighting. I'll be following along.
Karl
The lighting looks great.....now Bill has a place to stop his train and the passengers won't get wet. ;D
Tom,
That is a gorgeous scene! A good blend of contrast colours and shapes enhanced by the lighting and details.
Do you have on/off switches for the lighting in scene? or for the whole layout?
Quote from: Janbouli on August 30, 2016, 06:49:08 PM
Lights do miracles , don't they.
Jan,
Yes, it sheds a little light on the sheds. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ff00.inventorspot.com%2Fimages%2FSmileyLamp.jpg&hash=7dbe196dc1ab0a2084ea4af4e4fd1f6b39b56f67)
Wow - that looks great Tom. Bob your station really looks nice there. The LED lighting sure has added a new dimension to our hobby.
One note: the glue bottle chimney distracts from Bob's great work. Tom I found that glue bottle you where looking for. ;)
Quote from: Twopoint2 on August 30, 2016, 07:37:17 PM
Tom, layout is coming along nicely, station with lighting looks fantastic. Will be following along.
Jim
Jim,
Thanks very much and thanks for following along on the adventure.
Tom ;D
Quote from: postalkarl on August 31, 2016, 08:03:07 AM
Hi Tom:
The station looks great as does the lighting. I'll be following along.
Karl
Karl,
Much appreciated and thanks for checking in a following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on August 31, 2016, 09:21:17 AM
The lighting looks great.....now Bill has a place to stop his train and the passengers won't get wet. ;D
Butty Greg,
Thank you, much appreciated. Bill stops the trains anywhere and everywhere. Rain or shine. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: MartyO on August 31, 2016, 09:33:47 AM
Tom,
That is a gorgeous scene! A good blend of contrast colours and shapes enhanced by the lighting and details.
Do you have on/off switches for the lighting in scene? or for the whole layout?
Marty,
Thank you, very much appreciate your comments. I have lighting for the layout but I'll have structure lighting zones with an on/off switch. The structure on/off switches will let me control what I want to light and when.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on September 04, 2016, 07:59:30 PM
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ff00.inventorspot.com%2Fimages%2FSmileyLamp.jpg&hash=7dbe196dc1ab0a2084ea4af4e4fd1f6b39b56f67) (http://f00.inventorspot.com/images/SmileyLamp.jpg)
Now that sheds a little light on the subject.
Tom ;D
SORRY BACK-UP FILE WAS CORRUPT
Woo-hoo!!!
Tom
Look back and you will find that you lost two years the page numbers are all messed up. The posts are from 2014. This makes no sense.
Quote from: administrator on February 25, 2017, 09:05:01 PM
SORRY BACK-UP FILE WAS CORRUPT
Two years and 5 months are still missing. Why did the corrupt file only affect my thread. The back up should be better than this.
Tom
Oh crap.....I hope steps are being taken to rectify this unacceptable situation. >:(
To all and the Administrator,
I'm not angry but to say I'm extremely disappointed just doesn't seem to cover my lack of understanding on this forum's back up system.
To say,"Sorry, back-up file was corrupt", is beyond the pale and certainly unacceptable.
I'm going to wait a week and then make a final decision as to my continued contributions to the forum.
I want to thank all the followers and those that bothered to post comments to the original Atlantic and Southern RR thread.
Tom
To the powers that be!
Since each visitor and each posting member doesn't PAY for being, doesn't mean more important, serious, respect or attention to detail should not be given here to the forum (i.e. the backup).
Look: taking responsibility for running a forum or even running a server with a backup is an important responsibility. If someone takes on a job then one should be responsible for it's outcome. A forum is basically a photo album stored electronically.
Photos are one of the most important historic personal accountings next to personal life or personal art, but guess what neither of the latter are stored on the forum. (hint). ACL1504 is one of the best, one of the most popular, one of the drawls to the forum and is one of the selfless time invested to the forum members you have. (another words, without members like him are the reason for the forum to exist at all).
I for one (and i'm sure i'm not the only) can't have a secure faith in knowing that priceless time spent photos and personal written thoughts are going to be safe here for me when I need them, then I really don't want to be a part of this forum or any like it. If I don't like a movie- I get up and leave. If my friends aren't being protected here- I'll interact with them privately then.
I like this forum, I like the people running it, I like the people who contribute to it, Hell I get to where, my day here is where I visit throughout my day on a regular or (loyal) basis. I want the pilot handling my plane to be successful: honest, hard working, sober, well trained and conscience of his modeling passengers. If I can't fly American Hobby made, then I won't fly at all. My time & photos are way to important for others when they need.
I'm sorry for my posting friend from Los Florida's lost, I'm sorry for my posting breth·ren's lost, I'm sorry for my lost. I'm not mad, but trust me... this is the last time for me. If the administration reaction to my post here is to say good leave, then you haven't gotten the message and never will. Remember: one gets what one builds. One reaps what one sows. Besides, I'm too old to be packing up my out of focus pictures and boring non funny comments and moving to another forum where I possibly won't see all our supporting friends. Thanx Thom...
Thom and Tom, friends and fellow members of the forum.
This event happened once before and a lot of people are now wondering what and when it will happen next. The Admin answer was weak at best and does not leave a good feeling for the future of this forum. I wonder how many people have experienced this type of event and has there been any follow up to resolving these types of problems. Tom has shared his experiences over the past years with this forum and all of us have benefited from his generosity and knowledge. I think the admin needs to share what has happened and what they plan on doing to prevent this from happening again. Only then will we all feel like our contributions to the forum will survive.
Frank / Erieman
Thom,
You are to kind and I sincerely appreciate your words of generous support.
Also, per our conversation, I'm going to continue with the original Atlantic and Southern RR layout build thread.
Thank you my friend for the encouragement for me to continue.
I love this place.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on February 26, 2017, 10:52:22 AM
Thom and Tom, friends and fellow members of the forum.
This event happened once before and a lot of people are now wondering what and when it will happen next. The Admin answer was weak at best and does not leave a good feeling for the future of this forum. I wonder how many people have experienced this type of event and has there been any follow up to resolving these types of problems. Tom has shared his experiences over the past years with this forum and all of us have benefited from his generosity and knowledge. I think the admin needs to share what has happened and what they plan on doing to prevent this from happening again. Only then will we all feel like our contributions to the forum will survive.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thank you my friend for the support and compliment, much appreciated.
The administrator gave us an explanation of what occurred. Like it or not, I accept it and his apology.
http://modelersforum.com/general-daily-discussion/forum-missing-thread/msg65205/?topicseen#new (http://modelersforum.com/general-daily-discussion/forum-missing-thread/msg65205/?topicseen#new)
Let's all hope the situation is now under control and the back up system can or will be improved.
I want to suggest we all move on and get back to our love of posting and supporting each other.
I appreciate Robert, Doug and Jimmy for giving us this free forum.
Tom ;D
Tom:
I'll keep following your layout thread when you continue to post updates again as I enjoy looking at your modeling and what you've accomplished. Stay focused on your layout. :) 8) From one oldie to another oldie. ;)
Stay cool and run steam......... 8) 8)
Tom I am always interested in what you do, so for me I'll be watching and learning no matter where you start!
Right there with ya Tom.
Tom
I'm so sorry that you lost so much of this great thread. I recommend you start a volume 2 and lock this thread when you continue your build story. It doesn't look like anyone understands why this happened and this thread is still corrupted. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help you get going again. We all value your tremendous contributions to this forum.
Thank you!
Tom.
I have a temp build of the site when I was working on a school project back in September. Are any of the files on this site of use?
http://jimdeignan.com/
Quote from: RailroadKits on February 27, 2017, 06:09:18 AM
Tom.
I have a temp build of the site when I was working on a school project back in September. Are any of the files on this site of use?
http://jimdeignan.com/ (http://jimdeignan.com/)
Jimmy,
You are wonderful! Your temp build of the site is better and has more of the lost pages! How can we get your files/site above to just replace the old Atlantic and Southern build thread?
If you can do it, it will save me two years of the lost material. Your thread brings it up to September 2016 and the crash only gave me a recovery of October 2014!
Thank you so much.
Tom ;D
Way to go Jimmy!
Just don't let your cape get caught up in your wheels, remember what happen the last time... you know at the car wash, with the bikini's and CNN and that bag of marbles! Oh? What a weekend. Anyway, you da man! Thanx Thom...
Quote from: RailroadKits on February 27, 2017, 06:09:18 AM
Tom.
I have a temp build of the site when I was working on a school project back in September. Are any of the files on this site of use?
http://jimdeignan.com/ (http://jimdeignan.com/)
This is great news! Tom and Jimmy as you rebuild this thread from the backup I have a question. Is there a way of loading a web archive file back into the forum?
Does this seem any better? I see posts from September '16 at least?
Quote from: S&S RR on February 27, 2017, 08:41:28 AM
This is great news! Tom and Jimmy as you rebuild this thread from the backup I have a question. Is there a way of loading a web archive file back into the forum?
Most archives only back up a few pages, but if you find a back-up of the thread, we'll try anything.
Jimmy
The reason I ask is that I keep a web archive file of every page of my threads. I wanted to know if I could use them to recover in the event we had the same problem with one of my threads.
Quote from: RailroadKits on February 27, 2017, 08:41:56 AM
Does this seem any better? I see posts from September '16 at least?
Jimmy,
This is absolutely fantastic! I thank you and owe you BIG TIME, VERY BIG. I promise to never burn down one of your kits ever again.
Thank you so very much sir,
Tom ;D
I know Tom is at the Doctors office so let me answer for him this backup is much better. The current active version has 2 + years missing that are all here in this backup. It looks like the loss would only be the posts from September to today.
Okay. I've merged the two threads (the current one with my Sept files) and sent an email to Steven explaining what I did.
I also ran a backup before I touched anything!
I'm sorry we have lost such a big part of a huge, huge thread.
I think what you see now is the best we can expect.
Big "ATTA BOY" for our own "Jimmy the D"..... 8) 8) 8)
Quote from: ACL1504 on September 05, 2016, 12:41:59 PM
Quote from: Janbouli on September 04, 2016, 07:59:30 PM
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ff00.inventorspot.com%2Fimages%2FSmileyLamp.jpg&hash=7dbe196dc1ab0a2084ea4af4e4fd1f6b39b56f67) (http://f00.inventorspot.com/images/SmileyLamp.jpg)
Now that sheds a little light on the subject.
Tom ;D
Tom
Here is the last post from September 4th that is the last one before the memory gap. Everything looks good from my quick check. This is much better! I'm going to do a walk around on my layout to show where I'm at now to start my Volume 2 thread. You may want to do the same to fill in the gap. Good luck!
Quote from: RailroadKits on February 27, 2017, 09:11:45 AM
Okay. I've merged the two threads (the current one with my Sept files) and sent an email to Steven explaining what I did.
I also ran a backup before I touched anything!
I'm sorry we have lost such a big part of a huge, huge thread.
I think what you see now is the best we can expect.
Jimmy,
Thank you so very much. You are certainly THE MAN! You did more for me in 10 minutes than Steven did in four days. Maybe you should show him how a back up really works.
I'm back in business thanks to you.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on February 27, 2017, 09:23:09 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on September 05, 2016, 12:41:59 PM
Quote from: Janbouli on September 04, 2016, 07:59:30 PM
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ff00.inventorspot.com%2Fimages%2FSmileyLamp.jpg&hash=7dbe196dc1ab0a2084ea4af4e4fd1f6b39b56f67) (http://f00.inventorspot.com/images/SmileyLamp.jpg)
Now that sheds a little light on the subject.
Tom ;D
Tom
Here is the last post from September 4th that is the last one before the memory gap. Everything looks good from my quick check. This is much better! I'm going to do a walk around on my layout to show where I'm at now to start my Volume 2 thread. You may want to do the same to fill in the gap. Good luck!
John,
Thank you for filling in for me while I was at the doctor's office.
Yes, this is much better and certainly more than I every thought possible.
Again, thank you.
Tom ;D
This morning Jimmy D really came through and bailed me out BIG TIME!
I'm sure glad he know's what he's doing. All that was lost in the file corruption was a few months worth of the layout thread narration.
In the next few days, I'll do a photo essay from the September 4 post by Jan. The photo essay will only be pictures to bring all up to date. I won't even attempt to add any significant narrative.
I also see my post count is back to date, so whom ever did it, thank you.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 27, 2017, 11:11:36 AM
This morning Jimmy D really came through and bailed me out BIG TIME!
I'm sure glad he know's what he's doing. All that was lost in the file corruption was a few months worth of the layout thread narration.
In the next few days, I'll do a photo essay from the September 4 post by Jan. The photo essay will only be pictures to bring all up to date. I won't even attempt to add any significant narrative.
I also see my post count is back to date, so whom ever did it, thank you.
Tom ;D
Great to see all is well in forum land!
Yes , indeed! We owe it all the the Masterful Jimmy D. and HIS back up system.
Tom ;D
Photo wise, here is where the thread stopped or got corrupted and couldn't be recovered. This next picture is the one on page 140 of this thread.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300816180231.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300816180231.jpeg)
Continue to all the pictures to get up to date and will even add some sort of narrative when necessary. It won't be much but enough to let you know some of my thinking back then.
I have about 26 pages of 20 pictures per page so I will take a few days to get caught up.
These next few pictures show where I'm trimming the parking lot so the freight and passenger cars will fit without hitting the railing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916171832.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916171832.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916171846.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916171846.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916171905.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916171905.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916171919.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916171919.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916171933.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916171933.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916171946.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916171946.jpeg)
Over all view of the station with LEDs under the passenger platforms.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916172000.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-040916172000.jpeg)
Here I'm working on the road crossing across the tracks and under the passenger platforms to the parking lot.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050916163812.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050916163812.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050916163825.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050916163825.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110916133031.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110916133031.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110916133013.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110916133013.jpeg)
Adding a dirt road to the front side of the mainline.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110916133051.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110916133051.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110916133132.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110916133132.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110916133149.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110916133149.jpeg)
Here is where I started to layout my ideas for scenery on the Suwanee River Basin area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180916190215.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180916190215.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180916190231.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180916190231.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180916190249.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180916190249.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180916190303.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180916190303.jpeg)
I'll add a few more pages later this afternoon.
Tom
Heeeeee's back..... ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 27, 2017, 01:37:35 PM
Heeeeee's back..... ;D ;D ;D
Yup - We all get to see what happens the next time he fills the bit bucket. Tom remember to start another thread before you get the bucket too full again. Just sayin. It sure is great to have you back posting.
Congratulations on the start. I know it's got to feel good.
Thats great news Tom. Have fun with it.... :) ;) 8)
Stay cool and run steam.......... 8) 8)
Greg, Curt and Bob,
Thank you all for the support. I am back of sorts. I plan to continue my work on the layout next Monday. That will be 7 weeks post surgery and I'm feeling up to at least a little more than a few hours a day work.
I thank you for following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on February 27, 2017, 02:57:33 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 27, 2017, 01:37:35 PM
Heeeeee's back..... ;D ;D ;D
Yup - We all get to see what happens the next time he fills the bit bucket. Tom remember to start another thread before you get the bucket too full again. Just sayin. It sure is great to have you back posting.
John,
Thanks for the support. I've decided to keep this thread open to see what happens when I hit the 200th page again.
I'm going to back up the pages as you suggested. My son in law is an IT guy and he is going to show me how to save the entire thread and pages in a easy format.
Kind of like saving a photo. If I do get another corrupted file, I can just copy and paste the pages back.
I don't want my followers to have to go and find part one to check something.
A chance yes, but one I'm willing to take at the moment.
Tom ;D
Reading Bob built this wonderful FOS model of Barlow's Smokehouse for the Atlantic and Southern. It is one of it not the main focus of the Suwannee River Curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180916190318.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180916190318.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180916190331.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180916190331.jpeg)
I know a mind is a terrible thing to loose but I took me awhile to remember why I had the following photos in the thread. then I remembered.
This is when I decided to blend the Delwin's Diorama into the layout. It will become more clear in another dozen photos.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163001.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163001.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163217.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163217.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163137.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163137.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163158.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163158.jpeg)
This next photo shows how much of the diorama I needed to remove to bring it to a better fit.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163243.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163243.jpeg)
I also made sure the fascia was level.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163230.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163230.jpeg)
No comment needed for the next few pictures.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163301.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163301.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163405.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163405.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163335.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163335.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163421.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163421.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163512.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163512.jpeg)
I then marked off where the fishing (Happy Huts) shacks and dock pilling were to be located.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163530.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163530.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163557.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163557.jpeg)
I then marked where the river bank would come down to the water's edge.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163019.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163019.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163036.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163036.jpeg)
I used a product Kill and Kris Cutler turned me on to, Fusion Fibre. It's a mix of finely ground cotton and powdered glue. Mixed with water and you have instant earth spackle.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163543.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163543.jpeg)
After mixing, I spread it around and within my ink and pencil lines to form the river bank.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163633.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163633.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163646.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163611.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163700.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163714.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163727.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163745.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916164022.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163758.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916163813.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916175358.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916175412.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916175412.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916175425.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-200916175425.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220916173549.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220916173549.jpeg)
The build thread for the fishing shacks is on this thread.
http://modelersforum.com/kit-building/cck-lucama-fish-camp-challenge-1/ (http://modelersforum.com/kit-building/cck-lucama-fish-camp-challenge-1/)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220916173613.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220916173613.jpeg)
I then used spackle to fill the holes and depressions.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220916173630.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220916173828.jpeg)
More tomorrow morning. Slowly but surely I'm getting there.
I appreciate everyone's patience as I continue to update the layout build thread.
Tom ;D
Tom,
Wow! looks like you're building a whole new layout! It looks just like the one you were building for the last 4-ever. Oh wait is this layout 2.0? No wait! it's ground hog day, railroad style. Yeah that's it. Ok should I re-post my old posts so everything is reiterated? khaki pants...
Yeah, it appears that anything I posted during the black out has disappeared. My post count is still not restored.
Jim
Looking good Tom. :) ;) 8)
Stay cool and run steam................ 8) 8)
Wow..... You're building it faster this time than you did the first time. ;D
Damn. I feel like one of my favorite wings of the main library has burnt down. :'(
Really cool, Thanks for posting! I'm re- working my layout also and am interested to see what you do with yours!
Hi Tom:
Wow looks like you're really having fun.
Karl
You mean you are not done yet ;D ;D ;D ;D
Jim
Quote from: tct855 on February 27, 2017, 08:24:35 PM
Tom,
Wow! looks like you're building a whole new layout! It looks just like the one you were building for the last 4-ever. Oh wait is this layout 2.0? No wait! it's ground hog day, railroad style. Yeah that's it. Ok should I re-post my old posts so everything is reiterated? khaki pants...
KP,
Yes, to me it is Deja Vu all over again.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on February 27, 2017, 09:01:13 PM
Yeah, it appears that anything I posted during the black out has disappeared. My post count is still not restored.
Jim
Jim,
I got my posts back due to Jimmy D. being able to give me two years worth of posts back. I didn't get any post counts back from the two days they were working on the problem. I think we all lost on that one.
Tom 8)
Quote from: Powersteamguy1790 on February 27, 2017, 09:18:51 PM
Looking good Tom. :) ;) 8)
Stay cool and run steam................ 8) 8)
Bob,
Thank you kind sir.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 27, 2017, 09:20:43 PM
Wow..... You're building it faster this time than you did the first time. ;D
Greg,
The second time around is much easier. :P :P
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 28, 2017, 01:03:05 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on February 27, 2017, 09:01:13 PM
Yeah, it appears that anything I posted during the black out has disappeared. My post count is still not restored.
Jim
Jim,
I got my posts back due to Jimmy D. being able to give me two years worth of posts back. I didn't get any post counts back from the two days they were working on the problem. I think we all lost on that one.
Tom 8)
That Jimmy D.!
What a heck of a guy!
Quote from: Oldguy on February 27, 2017, 10:46:33 PM
Damn. I feel like one of my favorite wings of the main library has burnt down. :'(
Bob,
I felt pretty much the same over the weekend. I'm re-posting all the pictures but not all the narratives.
Thanks for following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on February 28, 2017, 01:06:41 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 28, 2017, 01:03:05 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on February 27, 2017, 09:01:13 PM
Yeah, it appears that anything I posted during the black out has disappeared. My post count is still not restored.
Jim
Jim,
I got my posts back due to Jimmy D. being able to give me two years worth of posts back. I didn't get any post counts back from the two days they were working on the problem. I think we all lost on that one.
Tom 8)
That Jimmy D.!
What a heck of a guy!
Chip,
He saved my bacon and my thread. I owe him big time and then some.
Tom ;D
Quote from: rpdylan on February 27, 2017, 11:09:52 PM
Really cool, Thanks for posting! I'm re- working my layout also and am interested to see what you do with yours!
Bob,
Thanks for following along. I'm in the process of re-posting the pictures and a few videos. It won't have the narrative I did when I was adding the last four months of work but at least the pictures will give you an idea of what I've been doing.
Tom ;D
Quote from: postalkarl on February 28, 2017, 07:45:14 AM
Hi Tom:
Wow looks like you're really having fun.
Karl
Karl,
Yes sir, I am. But certainly not as much fun as the first time around the block. :P :P
Tom ;D
Here I started adding blue foam to raise the earth level around the curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144103.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144103.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144118.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144118.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144132.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144132.jpeg)
I also added the blue foam to the corner and drew a line where the cut would be.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144148.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144148.jpeg)
I marked the general location where Barlow's Smokehouse would be located.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144201.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144201.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144215.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144215.jpeg)
I then filled in the back area some. The open space is where the road will be located.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144231.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144231.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144245.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-230916144245.jpeg)
I placed a large piece of cardboard (purchased from Sam Flax art supply) and penciled in where I wanted to road to be located.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154527.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154527.jpeg)
As you can see I then outlined the parking area and added weights to hold the card board in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154559.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154559.jpeg)
I then used the 36" radius track gauge in order to make sure my road was the same as the out side of the rail.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154541.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154541.jpeg)
I then cut off the excess card board and made one final test fit.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154615.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154615.jpeg)
Here is one of those areas where I need to go into more detail for those new members following along. This is how I get a consistent angle for the roadway.
In the following picture, you will note the bottom piece of cardboard appears to be more narrow that the one on the top. Truth is they are the same width. The optical illusion appears as I'm placing they at opposite angles.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154630.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154630.jpeg)
Now I'll lay the bottom piece on the top piece and you can see the are the same width.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154647.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154647.jpeg)
Move the bottom piece back keeping the same roadway angle. I used the 36 " track gauge for this.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154702.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154702.jpeg)
Now move the bottom piece back over the top one. Use the 36" track gauge and mark a line on outer edge of the lower rail.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154716.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154716.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154729.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154729.jpeg)
Cut the line as drawn and you have the roadway angle correct.
This is how to cut a curved roadway on a curved section of track. Easy peasy.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154743.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154743.jpeg)
To cut a center, between the tracks section, simply move the bottom cut piece up as shown below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154757.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154757.jpeg)
Mark it again with a pencil and cut it off.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154815.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154815.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154829.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154843.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I can't believe Jimmy the D was so nice to you after you almost gave him a coronary when you burned down his building.....you might want to think twice before you do that to him again, after this. ;D ;D ;D
I drew pencil lines where the road was located and added spackle to build up road to the level of the cardboard.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154900.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154900.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154913.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-250916154913.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160641.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160641.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160700.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160700.jpeg)
Keep working at it Tom..... Am enjoying all the photo's. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam....... 8) 8)
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 28, 2017, 02:10:02 PM
I can't believe Jimmy the D was so nice to you after you almost gave him a coronary when you burned down his building.....you might want to think twice before you do that to him again, after this. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Let me remind you and all others, I didn't burn his structure.
It was a faulty LED that was being sold by SLIM! :P :P My build, his bad LED.
Now, back to the regular programming.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Powersteamguy1790 on February 28, 2017, 02:12:04 PM
Keep working at it Tom..... Am enjoying all the photo's. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam....... 8) 8)
Bob,
Thanks, I'm at the mill stone.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160722.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160722.jpeg)
Here are all the necessary tools for this job.
Phone, drill, glue, spackle, level, tape measure, one found screw and of course, DIET PEPSI!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160736.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160736.jpeg)
I then used a putty knife and filled in the rest of the terrain.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160750.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160750.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160804.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160804.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160817.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160831.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160900.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290916160942.jpeg)
While the spackle was drying, I moved to the bascule bridge.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151304.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151304.jpeg)
I marked the location of the bridge on the plywood.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151319.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151319.jpeg)
The markings indicate where the guard rail piling will be located.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151335.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151335.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151355.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151355.jpeg)
I next turned my attention to painting the river bottom.
I used Golden Artist Colors. For the colors I used -
1. Burnt Umber
2. Raw Umber
3. Yellow Ochre
4. Phthalo Blue (Green Shade)
5. Sap Green Hue
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151410.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151410.jpeg)
I blended the paint to blend into the photo backdrop.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151425.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151425.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151439.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151453.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151508.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300916151524.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051016162820.jpeg)
I had a hair brained idea to make the parking lot asphalt. ERRR, bad idea so you only get two pictures of this mess.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051016162801.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051016162906.jpeg)
I started to add scenery to this area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051016162836.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051016170847.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051016170909.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051016170909.jpeg)
Next came some trees.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121440.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121440.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121503.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121503.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121519.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121519.jpeg)
I used the broken branches from the trees as under growth like small shrubs and stuff.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121534.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121534.jpeg)
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 28, 2017, 02:13:34 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 28, 2017, 02:10:02 PM
I can't believe Jimmy the D was so nice to you after you almost gave him a coronary when you burned down his building.....you might want to think twice before you do that to him again, after this. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Let me remind you and all others, I didn't burn his structure.
It was a faulty LED that was being sold by SLIM! :P :P My build, his bad LED.
Now, back to the regular programming.
Tom ;D
I must have bad intel.....a little birdie told me that Slim thought the problem was caused by improperly installed LED materials....."just sayin." ;D ;D ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121819.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121819.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121832.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121832.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121849.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121849.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121917.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016121917.jpeg)
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 28, 2017, 02:38:05 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 28, 2017, 02:13:34 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 28, 2017, 02:10:02 PM
I can't believe Jimmy the D was so nice to you after you almost gave him a coronary when you burned down his building.....you might want to think twice before you do that to him again, after this. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Let me remind you and all others, I didn't burn his structure.
It was a faulty LED that was being sold by SLIM! :P :P My build, his bad LED.
Now, back to the regular programming.
Tom ;D
I must have bad intel.....a little birdie told me that Slim thought the problem was caused by improperly installed LED materials....."just sayin." ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Do you think for one minute Slim would admit to selling a bad/defective product.
Just saying back.
Tom
Okay, in the next several photos you can see I'm removing the offending asphalt roadway.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161302.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161317.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161333.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161351.jpeg)
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 28, 2017, 02:40:11 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 28, 2017, 02:38:05 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 28, 2017, 02:13:34 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 28, 2017, 02:10:02 PM
I can't believe Jimmy the D was so nice to you after you almost gave him a coronary when you burned down his building.....you might want to think twice before you do that to him again, after this. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Let me remind you and all others, I didn't burn his structure.
It was a faulty LED that was being sold by SLIM! :P :P My build, his bad LED.
Now, back to the regular programming.
Tom ;D
I must have bad intel.....a little birdie told me that Slim thought the problem was caused by improperly installed LED materials....."just sayin." ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Do you think for one minute Slim would admit to selling a bad/defective product.
Just saying back.
Tom
You may have a point.....next time I'll think it thru and stop believing everything I hear for unsubstantiated sources. :o
I can't believe that da*n bird would try to lead down that errant road. >:(
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161405.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161405.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161419.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161419.jpeg)
I didn't remove the asphalt from the top. I just painted on some Elmer's white glue and added some Scenic Express fine dirt.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161436.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161436.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161505.jpeg)
Looks much better.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161521.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-061016161521.jpeg)
Dirt and more trees were added to the side sand hill.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155718.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155718.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155706.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155706.jpeg)
I have a big tub of trees to choose from.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155652.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155652.jpeg)
I'm afraid to response to Greg. He is in the quote a quote, quote a quote and quote mode.
Tom 8)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155732.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155749.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155802.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155822.jpeg)
Track ballast was added.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155838.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155852.jpeg)
More trees and shrubs behind Barlow's.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155906.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155921.jpeg)
Very nice job on the trees and hillside.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155933.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-071016155933.jpeg)
Quote from: PRR Modeler on February 28, 2017, 02:53:04 PM
Very nice job on the trees and hillside.
Curt,
Thank you, much appreciated. Next time you visit Colonial Photo and Hobby, come on by and see the layout. You and your son a welcome to come by and visit the Atlantic and Southern. Just send me an email so we can work it out.
Tom ;D
I agree with Curt, Tom you are a true proper modeler in every meaning of the title. You have made a true proper contribution to many parts of the modeling history. Thank you! Khaki...
I decided to make four channel markers that blinked.
I started by taking a 1/8" dowel cut to the length of the marker and drilled out the center.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016174417.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016174417.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016174429.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016174429.jpeg)
I started with a small hole and then enlarged it.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016174508.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016174508.jpeg)
I'm using Miniaturetronics 3mm red blinkers.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016174522.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016174522.jpeg)
Quote from: tct855 on February 28, 2017, 02:57:35 PM
I agree with Curt, Tom you are a true proper modeler in every meaning of the title. You have made a true proper contribution to many parts of the modeling history. Thank you! Khaki...
Khaki I,
Thank you, you are very kind sir. I love this hobby and love sharing my ideas as well. Again, thank you.
Khaki II
I wired the LED and pulled it through the dowel.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016174536.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016174536.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016184445.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016184445.jpeg)
I drilled a hole in the plywood where I marked the location of the four channel makers.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016174556.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016174556.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016185141.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-081016185141.jpeg)
Tom,
Wow I see you are using your old 20 gauge practice target as a drill platform. Nice! (hint) Thanx Thom...
I then added the railings on the channel marker dolphins.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-101016165337.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-101016165337.jpeg)
Here is how is looks with the bascule bridge in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-101016165350.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-101016165350.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-101016165405.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-101016165405.jpeg)
Quote from: tct855 on February 28, 2017, 03:06:15 PM
Tom,
Wow I see you are using your old 20 gauge practice target as a drill platform. Nice! (hint) Thanx Thom...
KPI,
Actually, 12 gauge! 8)
Tom ;D
Time for a break of Diet Pepsi and to locate the video of the channel markers.
Back later.
Tom,
What will you use to finish off the top of the water once details are completed? Cast-o-lite resin, or some other newer product. Or is this the top finished portion of the water? T...
Quote from: tct855 on February 28, 2017, 03:10:30 PM
Tom,
What will you use to finish off the top of the water once details are completed? Cast-o-lite resin, or some other newer product. Or is this the top finished portion of the water? T...
Thom,
I'm more than likely to use this product from unrealdetails.
http://www.unrealdetails.com/ (http://www.unrealdetails.com/)
Tom ;D
Here are two videos showing the channel markers lit. Not the video I was looking for but you get the idea.
[/color]
[/color]
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 28, 2017, 02:49:29 PM
I'm afraid to response to Greg. He is in the quote a quote, quote a quote and quote mode.
Tom 8)
Okay enough.....I need to get to work - hip deep in concrete and block. ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on February 28, 2017, 03:24:51 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on February 28, 2017, 02:49:29 PM
I'm afraid to response to Greg. He is in the quote a quote, quote a quote and quote mode.
Tom 8)
Okay enough.....I need to get to work - hip deep in concrete and block. ;D
Good thing you did my friend, otherwise you'd be knee deep in other stuff.
Tom ;D
I don't think the next 30+ pictures will require any comment.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016144936.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016144951.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145005.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145020.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145042.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145056.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145056.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145145.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145200.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145215.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145231.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145255.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145255.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145314.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145314.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145328.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145328.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145343.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145343.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145401.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145401.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145419.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145419.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145448.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145448.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145503.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145503.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145530.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145530.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145548.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145548.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145605.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145619.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145634.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145652.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145707.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145720.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145734.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145747.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145759.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145817.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145848.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131016145901.jpeg)
While the scenery was drying, I added rope around the dolphins.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016153017.jpeg)
Excellent job on the water.
Tom:
The channel markers look fantastic. Great idea. :) ;) 8) Its good to see them again. Those might be difficult to make in N Scale. But maybe not. ;) Might be worth a try. I would use very thin Plastrut tubing and drop wiring thru the tubing. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Quote from: PRR Modeler on February 28, 2017, 04:05:47 PM
Excellent job on the water.
Curt,
Thank you, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Powersteamguy1790 on February 28, 2017, 04:16:14 PM
Tom:
The channel markers look fantastic. Great idea. :) ;) 8) Its good to see them again. Those might be difficult to make in N Scale. But maybe not. ;) Might be worth a try. I would use very thin Plastrut tubing and drop wiring thru the tubing. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Bob,
Thanks very much. I think they can be done in "N" scale. You could also paint the base of the 3mm LED and leave just a little at the top red.
Tom ;D
I wanted to plant some scenery along the road edge. I used white glue and ran a row down the side of the road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154420.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154420.jpeg)
I then used broken tree and shrub pieces and pressed them into the glue.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154436.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154436.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154453.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154453.jpeg)
I moved to the other side of the road and started the scenery process there.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154513.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154513.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154529.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154529.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154544.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154544.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154601.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154601.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154615.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154615.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154638.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154638.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154652.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154728.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154812.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154827.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154859.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154915.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154915.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154930.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154930.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154947.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016154947.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016155002.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016155002.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016155023.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016155038.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016155100.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016155117.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016173933.jpeg)
Now for the area on the inside of the track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016173948.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174001.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174016.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174030.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174030.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174044.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174044.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174058.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174058.jpeg)
I'll post more on this tomorrow.
Looking good!
I can't believe you let Greg run into that fence AGAIN. ;D ;D ;D ;D
jIM
Quote from: jrmueller on February 28, 2017, 07:27:09 PM
Looking good!
Jim,
Thank you very much. Much easier the second time around.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on February 28, 2017, 08:37:27 PM
I can't believe you let Greg run into that fence AGAIN. ;D ;D ;D ;D
jIM
Yep, every time.
Tom ;D
I got to looking at the bridge shack and realized the manufacturer put a concrete structure on a wooden deck. This needed to be changed. I also wanted to enlarge the wooden deck.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174112.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174112.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174128.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174128.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174144.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174144.jpeg)
I cut a piece of Evergreen styrene to fit the area shown below. This piece was slightly larger than the proposed deck area. It was glued under the existing platform.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174157.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174157.jpeg)
I then cut a piece of styrene to fit the actual area I wanted. This piece fits flush to the existing planks on the deck.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174213.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174213.jpeg)
I painted the styrene black, spread white glue on the top and added scale 2X8's to the existing planks. The 2X8's were stained with Hunterline A&I mixes.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174230.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174230.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174245.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174245.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174259.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016174259.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016182353.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141016182353.jpeg)
The new bridge shack comes next.
The old concrete shack didn't come apart easily as you can see in the photo below.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163226.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163226.jpeg)
I cut a piece of clapboard the size of the original wall.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163241.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163241.jpeg)
To mark the window location, I used a black Pentel to mark the back of the plastic window.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163255.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163255.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163308.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163308.jpeg)
Prior to the window marking, I measured and drew lines on the rear of the clapboard. I marked the center line and the window height. I
I then placed the window on the rear and pressed it against the back. This transferred the ink to the wood.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163321.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163321.jpeg)
I used this to cut the window openings.
Fast forward and all the walls are finished.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163335.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163335.jpeg)
The walls were painted with Floquil Reefer White and the door and windows with Floquil Reading Green. The original roof was painted with the Reading Green also.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163348.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163348.jpeg)
Fast forward again and the walls were braced and glued together.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163404.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163404.jpeg)
Now I have a wooden bridge tender shack on a wooden deck.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163424.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163424.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163438.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-221016163438.jpeg)
Excellent modeling.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 01, 2017, 12:58:56 PM
Excellent modeling.
Curt,
Thank you, very much appreciated. This was a fun little project.
Tom ;D
Great photo's Tom. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 01, 2017, 11:42:41 AM
Quote from: jimmillho on February 28, 2017, 08:37:27 PM
I can't believe you let Greg run into that fence AGAIN. ;D ;D ;D ;D
jIM
Yep, every time.
Tom ;D
I didn't run into the fence.....it just jumped right out in front of the car as I was leaving with a tummy full of pig and one to many root beers. ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 01, 2017, 04:21:56 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 01, 2017, 11:42:41 AM
Quote from: jimmillho on February 28, 2017, 08:37:27 PM
I can't believe you let Greg run into that fence AGAIN. ;D ;D ;D ;D
jIM
Yep, every time.
Tom ;D
I didn't run into the fence.....it just jumped right out in front of the car as I was leaving with a tummy full of pig and one to many root beers. ;D
Okay, stick to that story. Root beers my behind.
Tom ;D
This large dirt area finally dried after three days.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161032.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161032.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161049.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161049.jpeg)
With the roads now completely dry, I added more scenery and trees to the back areas.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161104.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161104.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161120.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161120.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161133.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161133.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161152.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161152.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161207.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161207.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161221.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161221.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161237.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161237.jpeg)
More in a few.
I then started adding ground cover to the area on the right of the track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161255.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161255.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161310.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161310.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161324.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-171016161324.jpeg)
While that area was drying, I moved to the other side of the track and drew in where I wanted the dirt road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-181016182704.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-181016182704.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-181016182719.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-181016182719.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135153.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135242.jpeg)
I painted white glue inside the lines and then added Scenic Express fine dirt to the top of the glue.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135338.jpeg)
I use a soft bristle brush to spread the dirt.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135353.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135410.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135427.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135427.jpeg)
After finishing the road I moved to the area behind the track.
For this I painted on the white glue and then used Woodland Express Earth to cover the glue. When dry I added diluted matte medium to the earth cover.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135442.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135442.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135459.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135459.jpeg)
I then added broken tree branches and other tree debris to the area to represent shrubs.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135515.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135515.jpeg)
The road is still not completely dry.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135533.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135533.jpeg)
More in a few.
In this photo, you can see I added more matte medium to the dirt road and added a few trees to the other side of the tracks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135611.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135611.jpeg)
I then added more trees to the other side of the river basin.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135643.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135643.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135749.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135749.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135803.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135803.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135913.jpeg)
More in a few.
Excellent modeling. It really looks real.
Kris Cutler made an old oak tree from sage brush and super trees. She gave me the tree for the Atlantic and Southern RR.
This tree is such a work of art I needed to find a prominent place on the layout to display her incredible talents.
That place is in the front of the four fishing shacks on the Suwannee River.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135656.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135656.jpeg)
I used an old HO scale rubber tire and hung the tire swing using light brown thread.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135734.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135734.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135627.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135627.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135712.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135712.jpeg)
Tomorrow, I'll go over again how I landscaped around and under the tree.
Thanks for following along a second time.
Tom
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 03, 2017, 06:29:42 PM
Excellent modeling. It really looks real.
Curt,
Thank you for the very kind and generous compliment.
I'm making every effort to make it look realistic. From your comment, I'm getting there.
Again, thank you.
Tom ;D
A great looking landscape scene Tom. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........... 8) 8)
I won't assume those cabins are for swingers just 'cause the is a tire hanging from the tree. ;D ;D ;D
Tom,
I am enjoying this thread just as much as the first time you posted it. I applaud you for taking the time to repost all these wonderful photos.
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 04, 2017, 09:21:39 AM
I won't assume those cabins are for swingers just 'cause the is a tire hanging from the tree. ;D ;D ;D
Leave it Greg to find a hidden agenda in Toms Plan.
Jim
Too funny.
Quote from: Powersteamguy1790 on March 03, 2017, 08:48:52 PM
A great looking landscape scene Tom. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........... 8) 8)
Bob,
Thank you, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 04, 2017, 09:21:39 AM
I won't assume those cabins are for swingers just 'cause the is a tire hanging from the tree. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Good one, although the swing is for the children. The shacks are Happy Huts and are rented by the minute. If I need to explain further then you don't need to know. ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Quote from: jerryrbeach on March 04, 2017, 11:37:16 AM
Tom,
I am enjoying this thread just as much as the first time you posted it. I applaud you for taking the time to repost all these wonderful photos.
Jerry,
Thank you very much. It has been fun reposting the pictures but is taking a lot of time. It is also necessary so it all makes sense for those following along.
Thank for the thumbs up!
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on March 04, 2017, 11:47:15 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 04, 2017, 09:21:39 AM
I won't assume those cabins are for swingers just 'cause the is a tire hanging from the tree. ;D ;D ;D
Leave it Greg to find a hidden agenda in Toms Plan.
Jim
Jim,
Yepper, leave it to Greg. He is our Beaver. :o
Tom :P
Landscaping around the tree took several days and here is what and how I did it.
I drew a pencil line around the tree where I wanted the grassy area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135929.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135929.jpeg)
I removed the tree and spread some while glue inside the pencil lines. I used a soft brush to spread the glue.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135942.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135942.jpeg)
I then added some Woodland Scenics Earth on top of the glue.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135955.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016135955.jpeg)
Okay, never mind what it looks like, just spread the earth around on top of the earth.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140010.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140010.jpeg)
More in a few.
I let this dry over night and then added some matte medium and wet the entire area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140028.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140028.jpeg)
As this was drying I added more ground foam, some light grass and a little thicker foam grass.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140044.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140044.jpeg)
I then added a little yellow color using WS Blended Turf.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140058.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140058.jpeg)
Don't forget to clean out the tree hole.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140111.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140111.jpeg)
More in a few.
I added more matte medium to the area and added a little more dense foliage.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140128.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140128.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140143.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140143.jpeg)
I then replaced the tree. I used a small brush to remove some ground foliage from under the tire area. I let dry overnight.
You can see it was almost dry the next morning.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140157.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-191016140157.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090149.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090149.jpeg)
More in a few.
I let is dry for an additional twelve hours. You can now see where the matte medium dried, it left a water ring around the area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090204.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090204.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090218.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090218.jpeg)
Here's a little trick. I painted the dirt with dirt.
I dipped a soft brush in the Scenic Express Fine Earth and painted on the water stain.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090232.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090232.jpeg)
You can see where the water stain fades with the dirt painting.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090249.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090249.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090304.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090340.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090355.jpeg)
Easy peasy!
Very nice details.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 04, 2017, 07:17:21 PM
Very nice details.
Curt,
Thank you, glad you are following along.
Tom ;D
Nice work. The tree is fantastic!
Tom,
I have had those annoying "water rings" where the matte medium did not dry out evenly. You said you "painted the dirt with dirt". Did you use anything to hold the "painted dirt", or simply leave it brushed into the top of the surface?
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 04, 2017, 05:49:11 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on March 04, 2017, 11:47:15 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 04, 2017, 09:21:39 AM
I won't assume those cabins are for swingers just 'cause the is a tire hanging from the tree. ;D ;D ;D
Leave it Greg to find a hidden agenda in Toms Plan.
Jim
I seem to remember someone saying "Ward, I think you were a little [/size]hard on the Beaver[/color][/size] last night." ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Jim,Yepper, leave it to Greg. He is our Beaver. :o
Tom :P
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 04, 2017, 05:49:11 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on March 04, 2017, 11:47:15 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 04, 2017, 09:21:39 AM
I won't assume those cabins are for swingers just 'cause the is a tire hanging from the tree. ;D ;D ;D
Leave it Greg to find a hidden agenda in Toms Plan.
Jim
Jim,
Yepper, leave it to Greg. He is our Beaver. :o
Tom :P
I seem to remember someone saying "Ward, I think you were a little hard on the Beaver last night." ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
I like that scene especially the tree Tom........ :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam............. 8) 8)
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 04, 2017, 07:17:21 PM
Very nice details.
Curt,
Thank you sir, much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: rpdylan on March 05, 2017, 07:40:54 AM
Nice work. The tree is fantastic!
Bob,
Thank you for the compliment. Kris did a fantastic job on the tree. I hope she sees the post.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jerryrbeach on March 05, 2017, 08:44:35 AM
Tom,
I have had those annoying "water rings" where the matte medium did not dry out evenly. You said you "painted the dirt with dirt". Did you use anything to hold the "painted dirt", or simply leave it brushed into the top of the surface?
Jerry,
No, I just brushed on the dirt and left it. No one will be touching the layout so I just painted or rather dusted it and let be. Brushed on top of the surface will be fine.
I appreciate you following and asking the question, great question by the way.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 05, 2017, 09:12:19 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 04, 2017, 05:49:11 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on March 04, 2017, 11:47:15 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 04, 2017, 09:21:39 AM
I won't assume those cabins are for swingers just 'cause the is a tire hanging from the tree. ;D ;D ;D
Leave it Greg to find a hidden agenda in Toms Plan.
Jim
Jim,
Yepper, leave it to Greg. He is our Beaver. :o
Tom :P
I seem to remember someone saying "Ward, I think you were a little hard on the Beaver last night." ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Yes, my friend, but remember, my name ins't June. :-*
Tom 8)
Quote from: Powersteamguy1790 on March 05, 2017, 11:48:35 AM
I like that scene especially the tree Tom........ :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam............. 8) 8)
Bob,
Thank you! And, I'll pass your compliment along with the other bob's to Kris Cutler.
Tom ;D
After painting the bare plywood with white glue and adding the Scenic Express dirt, this is how I found it the next day.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090409.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090409.jpeg)
Brushing or dusting new dirt on this area wouldn't fill in the holes satisfactorily. I either added to much white glue in the first place or the plywood in that area rejected the glue. Either way, I repainted the affected area with more white glue and then added a thinner layer of dirt.
The second application worked fine.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090423.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090423.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090438.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090438.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-201016090452.jpeg)
More in a few.
Looks great.
While that last area was drying, I moved back to the curved area.
I applied white glue to the inside hill area and then added the top layer of dirt. The glue on the foam didn't separate as it did on the plywood.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016160643.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016160643.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016160657.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016160657.jpeg)
Here are the materials I used about 80% of the time for ground cover.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016163639.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016163639.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016163726.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016163726.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016163740.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016163740.jpeg)
More in a few.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 05, 2017, 06:25:51 PM
Looks great.
Curt,
Thank you and I appreciate you following along.
Tom ;D
I blend WS Course Turf and Scenic Express Silfor.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016163810.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016163810.jpeg)
This is how it looks after blending. Actually I only mix it, not blended.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016163755.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016163755.jpeg)
I also gather oak leaves from the yard, but them in the blender, add water and mix until I get a good mush.
I then spread the mush in a baking tin and dry in a warm oven until dry. This is what I get. I makes great looking yard and forest cover.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016163824.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016163824.jpeg)
I forgot these also.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050317183441.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050317183441.jpeg)
The one that really looks good mixed into the ground foam is sanded cork roadbed. Yes, the cork roadbed you use as a sub-roadbed.
I glue some down and use medium grit sandpaper to sand it down. This is my special cork mix.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050317183502.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050317183502.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
You can see all these in the next few pictures.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016180111.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016180111.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016180124.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016180124.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016180138.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016180138.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016180155.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016180155.jpeg)
A few more in a few. ;D ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016180209.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211016180222.jpeg)
Before I got to involved in the next scenery project, I wanted to find a couple of structures that fit the area I was scenicing. So the experimentation began.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016203815.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016203833.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016203847.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016203900.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016203915.jpeg)
I liked the one car repair garage here so I added more scenery to see if it looked better.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016203930.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016203950.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204005.jpeg)
It did so I kept it in the corner.
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204020.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204020.jpeg)
You can see in the next set of pictures just how trees change the entire look of a particular scene.
The trees are all Scenic Express Super Trees. They were sprayed with various light browns and grays, allowed to dry, then sprayed with hair spray and flocked with various shades of ground foam from WS and SE.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204034.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204034.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204052.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204052.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204108.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204108.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204124.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204124.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204137.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204137.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204152.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204152.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204205.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204205.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204219.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204219.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204234.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204234.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204247.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204247.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204302.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204302.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204338.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016204338.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016210444.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016210444.jpeg)
I still have a tub full of trees from the old layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-271016211448.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-011116163402.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-011116163418.jpeg)
I've reached my limit of fun for now. I'll try to add more of the pictures tomorrow or the next day.
Tom ???
Great scenery and attention to detail.
You're slowly getting up to date Tom. Nice going :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 06, 2017, 02:31:46 PM
Great scenery and attention to detail.
Curt,
Thank you very much. Like John Siekirk (S&SRR) says, "It's all about the details."
Tom ;D
Quote from: Powersteamguy1790 on March 06, 2017, 03:07:47 PM
You're slowly getting up to date Tom. Nice going :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Bob,
Yes, slowly but surely. I need to get the missing pieces of the puzzle up so I can start showing the new updates.
Tom ;D
Here are some pictures of the Suwannee River Basin area. The river bed is painted and ready for resin water. First though, I have several other things to finish here prior to the water being poured.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031116172546.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031116172616.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031116172631.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-031116172649.jpeg)
More in a few.
I next got the bascule bridge ready to be installed permanently.
Here is how it looked prior to me adding additional bridge planking.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116154906.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116154906.jpeg)
I removed some of the old planks and added the extras. I used scale 2X10's, stained them with Hunterline A&I and glued them to the bridge deck.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116154922.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116154922.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116154954.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116154954.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116154936.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116154936.jpeg)
More in a few.
Beautiful job on the bridge. That is amazing looking.
I plan on having the bridge pilot house lighted so I needed to get the wires in place.
I drilled a hole in the side of the piling and into the bottom. The light wires were strung through the holes.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116155008.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116155008.jpeg)
I then drilled a corresponding hole in the river bed and added a ring of glue.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116155025.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116155025.jpeg)
I then pushed the wires through the river bed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116155043.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116155043.jpeg)
The bascule bridge was repositioned on the river bed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116155058.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116155058.jpeg)
I used a Micro-Mark weight to hold it in place until the glue dried.
Continued in a few.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 06, 2017, 06:24:40 PM
Beautiful job on the bridge. That is amazing looking.
Curt,
Thank you, the added planks changed the look of the bridge. Looks more natural to me now.
Tom ;D
I then aligned the track to the existing track and tacked in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116155128.jpeg)
I then added the new ballast.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116155147.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116155638.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-041116155659.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191332.jpeg)
More in a few.
I then started adding scenery to the river back.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191347.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191404.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191423.jpeg)
Added some weeds in the dirt road as well.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191437.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191456.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191517.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191517.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191629.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191629.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191537.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191537.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191557.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191557.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191614.jpeg)
More in a few.
I added more scenery to the Suwannee River Basin Curve area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191658.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191658.jpeg)
RR planks across the tracks. Well, actually between the tracks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191712.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191712.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191725.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191725.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191740.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191740.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191752.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191752.jpeg)
I'll add more old pictures tomorrow evening.
Now is as good a place to add in the video of the bacsule bridge and blinking markers.
The video was done prior to me adding the channel barriers and dolphins.
[/color]
Very cool. Does the bridge move?
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 06, 2017, 07:17:39 PM
Very cool. Does the bridge move?
Curt,
No; however, there was a moterized version. They are selling on Ebay last I checked for around $135.00-150.00.
This bridge was given to me by Erieman, Frank Baker. I put it to use in the perfect location.
Tom ;D
Fantastic detail Tom... :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam......... 8) 8)
Nice work Tom! The crossing came out nice with tjose boards. When do you plan on pouring "water"?
Tom,
You have a wonderful eye for realistic scenery. The pics of the Suwanee river basin are great. I am in awe of the way you can transition your scenery from areas of short grass to bushes, brush and trees. The way you blend these areas together to look so natural is truly an art.
This is just like some of my favorite movies. I enjoy watching it this as much the second time around as I did the first even though I know how it turns out. :D
Quote from: Powersteamguy1790 on March 06, 2017, 10:16:46 PM
Fantastic detail Tom... :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam......... 8) 8)
Bob,
Thanks very much.
Tom ;D
Quote from: rpdylan on March 06, 2017, 11:31:53 PM
Nice work Tom! The crossing came out nice with tjose boards. When do you plan on pouring "water"?
Bob,
Thank you, much appreciated. I was going to pour the water at the end of January. However, the prostate surgery set me back seven weeks. Now, I don't think I'll do the pour until around June. I'm working on the rural scenery to the right of Delwin's.
The rural area is 13 feet long and will require two scratch built structures, lots of old oaks and pine trees. I'll have a few palms scattered around the area as well.
I want to get this rural area done as I'm creating much more layout "dust" so I want to wait on the water until all the new construction is finished.
Thanks for checking and following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jerryrbeach on March 07, 2017, 06:55:26 AM
Tom,
You have a wonderful eye for realistic scenery. The pics of the Suwanee river basin are great. I am in awe of the way you can transition your scenery from areas of short grass to bushes, brush and trees. The way you blend these areas together to look so natural is truly an art.
Jerry,
Thank you for such a kind and generous compliment. I've had four layouts to practice on. ;D ;D
When I do a transition area, I just try to make it look natural and from what I remember as a boy growing up around the woods and rural areas.
Appreciate you following along.
Tom ;D
Tom
Quote from: ReadingBob on March 07, 2017, 07:49:30 AM
This is just like some of my favorite movies. I enjoy watching it this as much the second time around as I did the first even though I know how it turns out. :D
Bob,
Thank you for the kind comment. I'm a little frustrated having to repost the pictures. If I didn't, the new continuation wouldn't make any sense.
I has been fun however, going back and seeing the progress.
Tom ;D
I love seeing your progress pics (Deja Vue all over again). You really have mastered the scenery technique. It all looks so real....natural.
The second time seeing this is just as good as the first time, but to see it in person is awesome.
Jim
Quote from: MAP on March 07, 2017, 01:01:32 PM
I love seeing your progress pics (Deja Vue all over again). You really have mastered the scenery technique. It all looks so real....natural.
Mark,
Thank you for the scenery compliment, much appreciated. Glad you are still having fun the second go around.
I want to get the missing photos up so I can start adding to the thread. I already have close to 80 new photos to list/post.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on March 07, 2017, 01:51:14 PM
The second time seeing this is just as good as the first time, but to see it in person is awesome.
Jim
Jim,
You are to kind, but then you are my friend. ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
I'm going to try to blitz some pictures so I can get to the new updated materials. I'll try to keep the narrative to a minimum. I don't mind relisting the photos, the narrative is another story though.
I decided to add channel markers to the river.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191805.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051116191805.jpeg)
According to the Coast Guard, the markers are mainly red and green. There are other colors meaning other stuff but all I needed was the channel marker information.
The red is what you see on the right as you leave open waters. Coast Guard phrase is "Red, Right, Returning".
The green markers are for leaving inland waters to open waters.
The number on the markers indicate how many more markers you'll pass until open waters, (Green).
Red is the same leaving and the numbers indicate how many markers from open waterd, (Red)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131116163751.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131116163751.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131116163807.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131116163807.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131116163820.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131116163820.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131116163835.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-131116163835.jpeg)
More in a few.
I built FOS Bud's GAS and BAIT floating dock. I lit the structure so I needed to get the wires under the river.
I used a brass tube for this and drilled a hole in the bank. The tube is higher than the water level will be.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116142615.jpeg)
I measured where the dock posts would be and glued them in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116142630.jpeg)
The wires go into the tube and under the river bed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116142644.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116142656.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116142710.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116142725.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116142740.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116142754.jpeg)
More in a few.
I found some little pine trees made by JTT, a division of MRC. They aren't to bad looking and add to the different trees in the scenery.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116145031.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116145031.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116145044.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116145044.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116145058.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116145058.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116145110.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-141116145110.jpeg)
Continued in a few. All this reposting of my photos is testing my patience. Diet Pepsi time.
JTT also makes cypress trees.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051216181902.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051216181902.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051216182229.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-051216182229.jpeg)
I decided to see if I could add some hanging moss. Here is what I used to make the moss.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112042.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112042.jpeg)
The Q-tip was dipped in Hunterline A&I and set aside to dry.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112055.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112055.jpeg)
The A&I gets lighter as it dries.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112124.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112124.jpeg)
More in a few.
I pulled some cotton off the Q-tip and kept pulling until I had a little wisp of cotton.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112143.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112143.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112156.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112156.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112212.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112212.jpeg)
I used tweezers to hang the moss on the bottom of the branches.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112243.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112243.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112258.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112258.jpeg)
More in a few.
I can't say I'm happy with the results and it took about 90 minutes per tree. I did two trees and won't be doing any more.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112321.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112335.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112352.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112407.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112422.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112422.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112436.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112436.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112449.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216112449.jpeg)
I scratch built a billboard sign for Delwin's.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216130755.jpeg)
I decided to add billboard lights using micro LEDs. I uised Ngineering parts for the lights. These are available from Slim at www.microlumina.com.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216130809.jpeg)
I used my Xacto knife to bend the .018 OD tubing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216130857.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216130911.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216130927.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I used a small pair of nippers to cut the tubing to the desired length.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216130948.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216130948.jpeg)
I reamed out the tube where I cut it. I didn't want any metal burrs to short the wires.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131001.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131001.jpeg)
I then punched a hole in the lamp shade.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131014.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131014.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131027.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131027.jpeg)
I super glued the shade on the end of the tubing as shown.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131043.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131043.jpeg)
More in a few.
I glued the lights on the rear of the sign with the lights shinning onto the sign.
The light poles were painted black and the shades were painted dark green.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131151.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131151.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131112.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131125.jpeg)
This is the location where the sign will be placed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-211216131138.jpeg)
I'm burned out and can't do anymore this afternoon. Oops, wrong phrase here. I'm tired now, I think I'll stop here.
There that's much better.
Tom ;D
Excellent. The sign is cool without lighting, but with lighting it puts it over the top.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 07, 2017, 05:07:09 PM
Excellent. The sign is cool without lighting, but with lighting it puts it over the top.
Curt,
Thank you for the thumbs up, much appreciate you following along.
Tom ;D
I got a second wind and want to get the thread caught up to where it was prior to the crash.
Time to install a few utility poles around Delwin's diorama. I'm not sure why I didn't do this section on the Delwin's thread but they are all listed under my layout thread. So, here they will stay even though both threads are layout related.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216134755.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-231216134755.jpeg)
I was talking to Bill Cutler some months back and we were discussing scale light glass covers.
I came up with the idea of using Canopy Glue for the glass. Here is what I did.
I installed a micro LED in a lamp shade. Put is the clip upside down and added a bulb of Canopy glue.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-291216182437.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-291216182437.jpeg)
I tested the LED again to make sure it was still working.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-291216182458.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-291216182458.jpeg)
The glass cover look big for two reasons. One, it is, and Canopy glue shrinks as it dries. And, two because it is big. ;D ;D ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-291216182513.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-291216182528.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-291216182543.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-291216182543.jpeg)
I also wanted some lights that looked like the old incandescent lights. I painted a little Tamiya clear yellow on one LED and not the other. Here is the difference.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010117165806.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010117165806.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010117165821.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010117165821.jpeg)
I moved back to the area where the billboard will be located. I drilled a hole and inserted a brass tube as I did with Bud's Gas and Boat Dock.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117162643.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117162643.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117162707.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117162707.jpeg)
I painted white glue on the area around the main structure location and then added the first coat of ground cover.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117162751.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117162751.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117162809.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117162809.jpeg)
Additional ground foam and other scenery materials were added next.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163138.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163154.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163236.jpeg)
More in a few.
Tom,
I really appreciate your efforts to restore this build thread.
As I check in though, I keep looking for the silver DeLorean to fly over the top of my PC, announcing our return to Back to the Future!
You can see in the other photos that the utility poles are installed on the lagoon bed. I placed them around where the docks and other structures are to be placed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163309.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163309.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163324.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163342.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163359.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163437.jpeg)
More in a few.
Quote from: BandOGuy on March 07, 2017, 06:13:04 PM
Tom,
I really appreciate your efforts to restore this build thread.
As I check in though, I keep looking for the silver DeLorean to fly over the top of my PC, announcing our return to Back to the Future!
Chip,
Thank you kind sir. As I mentioned to another member, I need to do this so the entire thread makes some sort of sense.
I'm waiting for that DeLorean myself. It would be nice to just go to the future and have this update updated!
A couple more days and I'll have it back to the future.
Tom ;D
The lighting control center will be located in the main structure.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163222.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163222.jpeg)
In order for the terminal strip to fit, I had to modify the roof bracing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163251.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163251.jpeg)
I made a little light panel for turning the lights on/off. I set it back from the edge of the layout so people won't hit the switches on accident.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163451.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163451.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163505.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050117163505.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155626.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155626.jpeg)
Done for this evening. I'll be back, sound familiar?
Okay,
I have about 40+ more photos to post and then I'll be up to date when the server crashed. The thread won't be up to date as I'm way behind on the new stuff.
I last showed the little panel with the on/off toggles for the Delwin's diorama. All the lights are in place now.
Here is the diorama, the little panel can be seen in the bottom of the photo.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155639.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155639.jpeg)
1. Controls the utility pole lights.
2. Controls the office billboard and exterior lights.
3. Controls Bud's Gas & Bait lights.
4. Controls the boat lift shed and the net drying shed.
5. Controls the large Delwin's billboard sign.
6. Will eventually control the country gas station and Three Fingered Freddy's Fireworks.
More in a few.
Here are a few photos of the diorama lights.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155725.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155738.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155803.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155750.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155750.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155832.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155832.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155851.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155851.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155711.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155711.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155816.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155816.jpeg)
Here is the country store and Freddy's.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155653.jpeg)
Diet Pepsi time per the instructions from the BandOguy, Chip Stevens.
Back in a few.
I wanted to add a fenced in area around one side of Delwin's. I got some round brass wire from Details Associates. I don't remember what size I used. It was either .019 or .022" diameter.
I drew a fence pattern on some extra cardboard. I cut the fence posts(wire) to length and then taped the wire down. After taping the horizontal wire I soldered the vertical post to it.
Fast forward and here is what I finished up with.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100117154427.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100117154427.jpeg)
I test fit the fence in place to make sure it all fit per my measurements.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100117154440.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100117154440.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100117154455.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100117154455.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100117154507.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-100117154507.jpeg)
For the chain link fence material I used wedding veil stuff. It's called tulle.
I cut the material to fit the fence and used a toothpick to apply super glue to hold it in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163405.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163405.jpeg)
I wanted it to look like it has been in place for several years so I used Hunterline A&I Rust and Cordovan stains on the entire fence.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163439.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163439.jpeg)
Ok, so I did a little bit of a saturation but it all came out fine.
Here is a before and after staining look. New on bottom and old on top.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163527.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163527.jpeg)
More in a few.
While the fence was drying I prepped the area. I used some light earth to represent where the grass was killed to add the fence posts.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163512.jpeg)
After the first section of fence was installed I added some additional scenery between the fence and water.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163602.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163625.jpeg)
More in a few.
I installed the remaining fence sections and place the large billboard within the fenced area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163640.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163640.jpeg)
I added more scenery stuff and a few small details.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163656.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163656.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163711.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163711.jpeg)
I added some weeds and vines at the bottom of the fence.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163759.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163759.jpeg)
More in a few.
In the next photo you can see the matte medium glue is still wet.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163746.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120117163746.jpeg)
I then extended the road a little.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154308.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154308.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154323.jpeg)
A little more scenery material to the area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154336.jpeg)
And a ground level shot of the fenced area and billboard.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154352.jpeg)
Finally coming to an end. More in a few.
No need to describe what is happening here. The "clothing optional" area is getting some ground scenery.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154209.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154209.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154221.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154221.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154238.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154238.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154254.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-140117154254.jpeg)
Finally, my photo essay update is finished. I'm sorry the narrative isn't as detailed as the original but things happen, we move on. The next area I've been working on is the area to the right/south of Delwin's. The two structures here are the country store and Freddy's Fireworks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155653.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070117155653.jpeg)
The area or length of the Delwin's diorama including Barlow's Smokehouse and the Suwannee River Basin area is 10' 3".
The next rural area is 13 feet 4 inches long. So I have my work cut out. Also in this area is a small station, one cracker house and one water tower. The two structures will need to be scratch built. I have the water tower done from a previous layout. Is that a small out house in the back of the cracker shack?
If you been a long time follower of the thread you may remember I showed the photo below.
This is the look I'll try to achieve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615155119.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-070615155119.jpeg)
I copied the photo out of the Atlantic Coast Line in color book. The photo was taken on May 28, 1949 at Ruskin, Fl. You can see many pine trees and a few oaks. There are some scrub bushes, weeds and lots of white sand.
BTW, Ruskin is on the gulf coast a good ways south of Tampa and East ofTampa Bay.
The loco is a P2 Class 4-6-2, #430.
Great scenery work. I look forward to seeing the picture come alive.
Looking forward to that scene Tom. Glad to see your "update" is finally finished. ;) :)
Stay cool and run steam....... 8) 8)
Will be waiting for you to continue on.
Looking forward to more of your great rural scenery!
Hi Tom:
The RR is coming along very nicely. Love the boat and Storage co. Also the scenery around is very nicely done.
Karl
Tom, it is all blending together very well. the transitions from area to area are natural and realistic and gets better every time you add some more details and scenery. The colour tones look ok and the use of brown dirt areas add interest and make it feel like it was used by somebody. It is not looking like a model, but a real part of an environment.
Keep up the excellent modelling!
Your scenery is just fantastic Tom! I've been meaning to try and make a chain link fence.....
Tom
The thread and the layout are looking great - you sure put a lot of work into rebuilding the thread. Thank you for sharing it all with us - again. Please take a few minutes and do a backup like we talked about. Just say-in!
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 09, 2017, 02:36:34 PM
Great scenery work. I look forward to seeing the picture come alive.
Curt,
Thank you very much. I'll be adding some new stuff to the thread tomorrow afternoon.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Powersteamguy1790 on March 09, 2017, 04:38:41 PM
Looking forward to that scene Tom. Glad to see your "update" is finally finished. ;) :)
Stay cool and run steam....... 8) 8)
Bob,
Thank you and yes, I'm happy to be caught up on the thread picture wise. More of the new stuff tomorrow evening.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ak-milw on March 09, 2017, 07:15:06 PM
Will be waiting for you to continue on.
Andy,
Thank you as well. I'm already some fifty pictures into the new portion. Just need to get them up with a narrative.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jerryrbeach on March 10, 2017, 07:53:42 AM
Looking forward to more of your great rural scenery!
Jerry,
Thank you, I'm really excited to be starting the new section and the rural scenery.
Tom ;D
Quote from: postalkarl on March 10, 2017, 08:17:27 AM
Hi Tom:
The RR is coming along very nicely. Love the boat and Storage co. Also the scenery around is very nicely done.
Karl
Karl,
Thanks for all the kind words on the work. The scenery is fun but very time consuming.
Tom ;D
Quote from: MartyO on March 10, 2017, 08:39:06 AM
Tom, it is all blending together very well. the transitions from area to area are natural and realistic and gets better every time you add some more details and scenery. The colour tones look ok and the use of brown dirt areas add interest and make it feel like it was used by somebody. It is not looking like a model, but a real part of an environment.
Keep up the excellent modelling!
Marty,
Your kind words on my work is very much appreciated, thank you. It has been fun and I agree that some of the dirt areas do make it look more believable.
Tom ;D
Quote from: rpdylan on March 10, 2017, 09:14:03 AM
Your scenery is just fantastic Tom! I've been meaning to try and make a chain link fence.....
Bob,
Thank you for the compliment, much appreciated. The fence is easy, a little time involved but well worth the effort in the end.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on March 10, 2017, 09:37:32 PM
Tom
The thread and the layout are looking great - you sure put a lot of work into rebuilding the thread. Thank you for sharing it all with us - again. Please take a few minutes and do a backup like we talked about. Just say-in!
John,
Thanks for the kind words of support. I'm working on the backup and may be calling you in a few days.
Tom ;D
Tom,
Appreciate that you took the time to repost the pictures you lost to the network crash. The area looks very rustic like the backwoods should.
I like the lighting you did in the area. It really adds something to the scene.
I know I said I'd start this tomorrow but I have a little more time. The area I'm working on, which I've mentioned several times is shown below.
This area is south of Delwin's Boat and Net Storage and runs to the Tahope River.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180118.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180118.jpeg)
The Tahope River is in the bottom on the next photo. Okay, well, all you can see is some brown paper. The length is just over 13 feet. Lots of scenery to fill in.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180138.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180138.jpeg)
More in a few.
These next two posts really don't have anything to do with layout building but it is layout related.
I spent quite a bit of time hand painting Tomar markers yellow. They come black and since I'm installing them in a few brass cabeese, they needed to be yellow.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180337.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180337.jpeg)
Here are a few of the brass cabeese that will receive the markers.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180232.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180232.jpeg)
The two Seaboard in the middle left of the photo are plastic.
More in a few.
I was going through some boxes and found a neat hopper I forgot I had. It's a Train Minature 36' ribbed Hopper and lettered for the famous Virginian & Ohio.
This will be built and added to the hopper fleet on the Atlantic and Southern RR.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180158.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180158.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180216.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180216.jpeg)
Quote from: sdrees on March 11, 2017, 06:21:57 PM
Tom,
Appreciate that you took the time to repost the pictures you lost to the network crash. The area looks very rustic like the backwoods should.
I like the lighting you did in the area. It really adds something to the scene.
Steve,
You are very welcome. I felt like I needed to at least re-post the pictures so new followers would be able to make a smooth transition without a large gap of missing information.
I hope to make the new rural area even more backwoods like.
I'm anxious to get moving on some of it. However, there is a lot of prep work to do prior to getting the scenery started.
I think everyone will be pleased with the outcome.
Tom ;D
Look forward to seeing the new section develop. Can't wait to see the marker lights on the cabeese.
It's about time you got back to work.....you've been slacking much to long. ;D ;D ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 11, 2017, 07:40:25 PM
Look forward to seeing the new section develop. Can't wait to see the marker lights on the cabeese.
Curt,
I appreciate you following along on the build. I'll be posting some cabeese pictures in a week or two.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 12, 2017, 10:10:23 AM
It's about time you got back to work.....you've been slacking much to long. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Ain't it the truth my friend, ain't it the truth.
Tom ;D
Tom:
Having fun working on that new area :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam....... 8) 8) 8
Tom glad to hear your feeling better and making progress on the layout, buy the way it looks awesome.
Nice big area to fill in Tom, should take awhile.
Quote from: Powersteamguy1790 on March 12, 2017, 12:20:20 PM
Tom:
Having fun working on that new area :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam....... 8) 8) 8
Bob,
This has been an area I've wanted to work on for a couple of years now. I'll have some updates this afternoon.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Twopoint2 on March 12, 2017, 12:25:43 PM
Tom glad to hear your feeling better and making progress on the layout, buy the way it looks awesome.
Jim,
Still recovering from the prostate surgery and getting over a light flu bug, but back working on the layout is good medicine.
And, thank you for the compliment.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ak-milw on March 12, 2017, 12:35:18 PM
Nice big area to fill in Tom, should take awhile.
Andy,
Thanks for stopping by. It will take some time but I sure will be a whole bunch of fun.
More this afternoon.
Tom ;D
The rural area I'm working on is flat, very flat. I need the ground and roadways to be level. I need the ground to be level with the track, yet separated from the roadway and track right of way.
The Atlantic and Southern RR track in this area is on 1/4" cork ballasted roadbed. I need the roads in the area to be some what level with the track.
I used a marker with black ink to mark the proposed road location.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180251.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180251.jpeg)
This road is also part of the road several miles away in West Tahope. This is Old Dixie Hwy.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317145522.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317145522.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317145536.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317145536.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180316.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180316.jpeg)
For the roadway, I used the 1/4" cork roadbed to raise it to track level.
More in a few.
I then cut 1/16" thick cardboard to the width of the road I drew with the marker.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180357.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180357.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180426.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180426.jpeg)
More in a few.
I glued the cork roadbed in place with the beveled edge to the out side, same as I would for the track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180441.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180441.jpeg)
When the cork was dry I test fitted the road on top of the cork.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180454.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180454.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180516.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180516.jpeg)
This raised the road to track level and gives me a drainage slope as well. The drainage slope is important here and I'll cover this later this evening.
Continued in a few. It is most certainly Diet Pepsi time.
They big guy is back to work! 8)
Tom, Great idea about doing roads. I hadn't thought of doing them that way. Also it has the added nice detail of the edges being textured.
Bringing the ground level up was a challenge. I wasn't going to go to the expense of using cork roadbed or any other cork to cover the entire 2 X 13 ft. area.
Blue foam only comes in 1/2" and up thicknesses. I wasn't going to slice the 1/2" blue foam.
I did an internet search for 1/4" foam/insulation and found a product called FOAMULAR. And, it is sold at Home Depot.
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Owens-Corning-FOAMULAR-1-4-in-x-4-ft-x-50-ft-R-1-Fanfold-Insulation-Sheathing-21UM/100320301 (http://www.homedepot.com/p/Owens-Corning-FOAMULAR-1-4-in-x-4-ft-x-50-ft-R-1-Fanfold-Insulation-Sheathing-21UM/100320301)
I got all excited and went to HD to buy some FOAMULAR. I couldn't find it and asked for help. I was told they didn't sell it in the stores that it was a special order. I'm paraphrasing the conversation I had with the fine (not) HD people.
I said, okay, I want to order some.
Oh, you can't order it from here. You have to go home and order it through HD on the internet.
You mean you sell it but you don't sell it. But you do sell it on the internet and I can only order it from home and not place an order here at the store.
Yes, that's right.
So I go home, get on the HD web site and this is what I find. This product is not available locally. Go to your local HD store and have it special ordered.
I got mad and called the corporate office of HD. I got to speak to a very nice lady who said I needed to go to the store to place the order.
I said then why do you have it on the web site to be ordered by me.
Well, that must be a mistake.
Hold on a minute.
Okay, Mr. Langford, you do need to order it at the store.
Not true said I. Here is the number of the store when I was told I have to order it off the internet.
Hold on a minute.
Mr. Langford?
Yes!
They will take your order at the store.
Okay, thanks very much. You've been a great help.
I then called the store and was told I can't place special orders over the phone. I needed to place the order in house.
I was thinking what the F---,
Okay, I'll be there in 20 minutes. I hope those idiots are still waiting. That was three weeks ago.
Continued in a few.
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 12, 2017, 03:19:11 PM
They big guy is back to work! 8)
Greg,
Yepper, but not as big when the layout was started. Err, I should say restarted.
Tom 8)
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 12, 2017, 03:23:17 PM
Tom, Great idea about doing roads. I hadn't thought of doing them that way. Also it has the added nice detail of the edges being textured.
Curt,
Thanks, it worked out really well and will give my road a little profile. The cork of course will be covered with scenic materials.
Tom ;D
Isn't it awesome dealing with low wage employees at a big box store. I guess the company gets what they pay for.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 12, 2017, 03:38:07 PM
Isn't it awesome dealing with low wage employees at a big box store. I guess the company gets what they pay for.
Yepper, They will never and I mean never get any of my business.
Tom ;D
I found the FOAMULAR at Menard's in MN.
I ordered on line and within 20 minutes I got a response back saying it was shipped.
It cost me less including shipping than what HD wanted it for but wouldn't/couldn't order it.
I got it in four days and it is now in the train room.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180613.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180613.jpeg)
Continued later this afternoon.
Side bar to your story, Tom.
Our daughter's nearest big box lumber yard is Lowe's. I've been patronizing the store for 7+ years or so to make improvements around her place. Afraid to look at how much money I've spent there. Friday when I was checking out with a small purchase, the clerk noticed my new PA drivers license with "Veteran" emblazoned on it. After thanking me for my service, she said "you know, as a veteran, you get 10% of all of your purchases at Lowe's?" Me:"Hmmm. That's new". No, with the old MA license, they had no way to know and I never thought to ask.
Guess who gets all my layout construction money after I find a basement.
Gotta' love them big box stores (spoken in pure cracker).
Quote from: BandOGuy on March 12, 2017, 04:43:51 PM
Side bar to your story, Tom.
Our daughter's nearest big box lumber yard is Lowe's. I've been patronizing the store for 7+ years or so to make improvements around her place. Afraid to look at how much money I've spent there. Friday when I was checking out with a small purchase, the clerk noticed my new PA drivers license with "Veteran" emblazoned on it. After thanking me for my service, she said "you know, as a veteran, you get 10% of all of your purchases at Lowe's?" Me:"Hmmm. That's new". No, with the old MA license, they had no way to know and I never thought to ask.
Guess who gets all my layout construction money after I find a basement.
Gotta' love them big box stores (spoken in pure cracker).
Chip,
Great story and I also thank you for your service.
That trip to HD was only due to the fact they had what I wanted. Other than that, I've been shopping at Lowe's for past twelve years. The Lowe's people are very friendly and knowledgeable.
All the current layout material is from Lowe's from the smallest screw to the carpet and all in between.
Tom ;D
I used a piece of the cardboard and made a pattern for the lower corner.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154449.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154449.jpeg)
Some glue, ok, a lot of glue was painted on.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154503.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154503.jpeg)
I used the cardboard pattern and cut a piece of the 1/4" foam and glued it in place. You can see even my Diet Pepsi assisted in the task, but not for long.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154516.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154516.jpeg)
More in a few.
While that little corner was drying, I moved to the area between the wall and track. I placed a full sheet on the area and pressed lightly down on the foam over the track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154530.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154530.jpeg)
I think you can easily see the rail indentations in the foam.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154545.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154545.jpeg)
I then cut along the line and test fit the foam to the area.
I used a black marker to make some final cutting lines.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154606.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154606.jpeg)
More in a few.
In the photo below, you can see Three Fingered Freddy's is set on a 1/2" piece of gator board.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180357.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110317180357.jpeg)
I used a wide Xacto saw to remove the bottom half. There was a small separation line in the foam and it just so happened to be 1/4".
After only ten minutes, I had the bottom half cut off.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154621.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154621.jpeg)
Now Freddy's is level with the road.
More in a few.
I then cut some pink foam to fit around Freddy's.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154636.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154636.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154651.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154651.jpeg)
I sanded the edges of the foam to match as closely as I could to the cork roadbed. This gives me a small ditch between the ground and road and also between the track and ground.
Many places in Florida, the rural and county roads have this kind of small ditch or road drain off.
See, I even have a ditch area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317174306.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317174306.jpeg)
I'll finish this section of the thread tomorrow.
Tom
While the areas discussed above were drying, I added more of the fascia to the layout. I needed to trim a short piece of 1X4 to fit the Tahope River.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154714.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154714.jpeg)
I then needed to cut a piece of 1X4 to fit between the existing fascia and the small 1X4 at the river.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154728.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154728.jpeg)
That task was accomplished and the Masonite fascia was then added and screwed in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154747.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154747.jpeg)
More in a few.
I'm sure and hopefully by now everyone has an idea of how I'm using the 1/4" foamular panels.
The rest of the pictures will finish this part of the narrative.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154802.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154816.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154830.jpeg)
More to follow.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154844.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154901.jpeg)
More to follow.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154920.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-120317154934.jpeg)
Another reason I chose to use the 1/4 inch pink foamular is the ability to stick trees and other stuff in the foam.
This will save me from drilling holes in the plywood to install the trees and other scenery stuff.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130317180405.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-130317180405.jpeg)
Very "PINK" Tom
Tom,
I guess it's settled! You don't have Rhodophobia. Infact I'm Rhodophobia free also. Thanx Thom...
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 11, 2017, 06:16:58 PM
Quote from: S&S RR on March 10, 2017, 09:37:32 PM
Tom
The thread and the layout are looking great - you sure put a lot of work into rebuilding the thread. Thank you for sharing it all with us - again. Please take a few minutes and do a backup like we talked about. Just say-in!
John,
Thanks for the kind words of support. I'm working on the backup and may be calling you in a few days.
Tom ;D
Tom
Call any time. You are posting like a crazy man. I had to go back 5 pages to find where I left off.
Gee, Tom, all that pink reminds me of the Pink Panther. You know, "Dead ant, dead ant..." It is your fault that will be playing in my head all day, lol!
And as I caught up on this thread, a horrible image whistled through my head: Tom, out in the man cave doing all this scenery work wearing one of those truly ridiculous PINK shirts/sweatshirts. You know the ones I mean. You see them at the malls and in stores. Goofy people wearing black shirts with the word PINK on them. News flash: black can't be PINK. Hopefully, neither is Tom wearing one of them. Model railroading is one thing. Fashion is another.
The scene is looking good Tom. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Foam would be much easier than drilling a 1000 holes into the plywood.
I do the same with my little people. I drill a .020 hole in their foot, insert a wire and I can move them all over the layout.
Great idea Andy.
Are you slacking again.....no progress posts since the 13th. :o ;) ::)
Quote from: ak-milw on March 13, 2017, 06:44:04 PM
Very "PINK" Tom
Andy,
Believe it or not, when I was the Special Ops. Commander at the Orlando International Airport, I had a Pink Panther in my office. It was a gift from my Babe. I had it sitting on my desk, propped up against the wall with one leg hanging over the edge of the desk. It was about two feet tall and was a hit with all the visiting LEO's. Oh, and he was wearing a pair of Mickey Mouse ears.
No brag, just fact.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on March 13, 2017, 08:40:10 PM
Tom,
I guess it's settled! You don't have Rhodophobia. Infact I'm Rhodophobia free also. Thanx Thom...
KPI,
No not me, in fact, I have six golf shirts of colors from red to pink. No rhodophobia here. This railroad is a rhodophobia free zone.
Rhodophobia is a cousin to Chromophobia, the fear of colors! Just saying.
KPII
Quote from: S&S RR on March 13, 2017, 09:15:53 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 11, 2017, 06:16:58 PM
Quote from: S&S RR on March 10, 2017, 09:37:32 PM
Tom
The thread and the layout are looking great - you sure put a lot of work into rebuilding the thread. Thank you for sharing it all with us - again. Please take a few minutes and do a backup like we talked about. Just say-in!
John,
Thanks for the kind words of support. I'm working on the backup and may be calling you in a few days.
Tom ;D
Tom
Call any time. You are posting like a crazy man. I had to go back 5 pages to find where I left off.
Johm,
Thanks my friend. My posts come in bunches like bananas. One to many at a time.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jerryrbeach on March 14, 2017, 10:55:28 AM
Gee, Tom, all that pink reminds me of the Pink Panther. You know, "Dead ant, dead ant..." It is your fault that will be playing in my head all day, lol!
Jerry,
Yes, it does doesn't it? Please read my response above to Andy.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on March 14, 2017, 11:23:44 AM
And as I caught up on this thread, a horrible image whistled through my head: Tom, out in the man cave doing all this scenery work wearing one of those truly ridiculous PINK shirts/sweatshirts. You know the ones I mean. You see them at the malls and in stores. Goofy people wearing black shirts with the word PINK on them. News flash: black can't be PINK. Hopefully, neither is Tom wearing one of them. Model railroading is one thing. Fashion is another.
Chip,
Rest easy, it didn't happen. I do have many shades of Pink golf shirts though. I don't work in them, only play.
I'm a man who isn't afraid to wear any shade of pink.
Tom
Tom ;D
Quote from: Powersteamguy1790 on March 14, 2017, 03:55:59 PM
The scene is looking good Tom. :) 8)
Stay cool and run steam........ 8) 8)
Bob,
Thank you much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on March 14, 2017, 05:05:46 PM
Foam would be much easier than drilling a 1000 holes into the plywood.
Curt,
My thoughts exactly.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 16, 2017, 09:21:47 AM
Are you slacking again.....no progress posts since the 13th. :o ;) ::)
Greg,
What me, a slacker? Well, sometimes but here I was only spoon feeding the information. 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 16, 2017, 11:19:38 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 16, 2017, 09:21:47 AM
Are you slacking again.....no progress posts since the 13th. :o ;) ::)
Greg,
What me, a slacker? Well, sometimes but here I was only spoon feeding the information. 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Well maybe not.....now get off the computer and get back to work. ;D ;D ;D
It seems that the S&S RR isn't the only railroad that needed to replace some bad track.
I'm not sure about the S&S RR, but the rails and ties must have shifted when the earthquake came through East Tahope.
I noticed the shifted track while filming one of the local passenger trains coming around Baker's Curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317155958.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317155958.jpeg)
I tried to repair the track the easy way and it didn't work. However, I'll share what I tried to do.
In the above photo you can see that I wet the ballast with wet water and let it soak in for about thirty minutes.
I then removed all the track spikes and used a steel ruler and tried to move/straighten the track, ballast and all.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160021.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160021.jpeg)
Sometimes you just can't fix stupid! I was not successful in fixing the track but I was very successful in mucking up the whole thing.
More in a few.
I made the executive decision to remove the track, ballast and roadbed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160035.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160035.jpeg)
After the plywood was dry, I sanded the plywood to get a smooth surface to start over.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160048.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160048.jpeg)
I'll share more of this repair tomorrow.
OUCH, that hurts, but you made the right decision. Cut, remove and replace. I think we all have had to do this at least once. I have had a temperature event that created a three way switch rising off the cork roadbed. It looked like a mountain versus your extra curve. Also not pretty.
As usual, you are doing a wonderful job on your beautiful layout. Keep up the great work, my friend.
Frank / Erieman
Looked straight to me...but I model backwoods Maine narrow gauge, so it's all perspective :o
Haven't caught up in a while, but the layout looks great here. Usually I don't like re-runs, but...
John
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 16, 2017, 04:13:45 PM
It seems that the S&S RR isn't the only railroad that needed to replace some bad track.
I'm not sure about the S&S RR, but the rails and ties must have shifted when the earthquake came through East Tahope.
I noticed the shifted track while filming one of the local passenger trains coming around Baker's Curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317155958.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317155958.jpeg)
I tried to repair the track the easy way and it didn't work. However, I'll share what I tried to do.
In the above photo you can see that I wet the ballast with wet water and let it soak in for about thirty minutes.
I then removed all the track spikes and used a steel ruler and tried to move/straighten the track, ballast and all.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160021.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160021.jpeg)
Sometimes you just can't fix stupid! I was not successful in fixing the track but I was very successful in mucking up the whole thing.
More in a few.
Hi Tom
The S&S RR has diagnosed our track problem and plans on trying to fix it with the same technique. Wet it down and try to save it. Since a few inches of the repair are on top of the trestle I may need to add some new trestle decking. I also ordered a couple more sections of bridge track so I had it on hand just in case we need plan B.
Sometimes repairs are necessary Tom, to get things running perfectly. :) ;)
Stay cool and run steam....... 8) 8)
Quote from: Erieman on March 16, 2017, 04:25:32 PM
OUCH, that hurts, but you made the right decision. Cut, remove and replace. I think we all have had to do this at least once. I have had a temperature event that created a three way switch rising off the cork roadbed. It looked like a mountain versus your extra curve. Also not pretty.
As usual, you are doing a wonderful job on your beautiful layout. Keep up the great work, my friend.
Frank / Erieman
Framk,
Thanks for stopping by. Cut, remove and replace was definitely the thing to do. I figured out what went wrong and I'll explain it in future posts.
Thank you as well for the very kind words of support.
Tom ;D
Tom
Quote from: Cuse on March 16, 2017, 05:18:34 PM
Looked straight to me...but I model backwoods Maine narrow gauge, so it's all perspective :o
Haven't caught up in a while, but the layout looks great here. Usually I don't like re-runs, but...
John
John,
It looked straight to me also. But after several months it got more and more out of line. ;D ;D ;D
I wasn't happy about the rerun either but felt it was necessary to maintain the flow of the build.
I appreciate you checking in.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on March 16, 2017, 05:39:45 PM
Hi Tom
The S&S RR has diagnosed our track problem and plans on trying to fix it with the same technique. Wet it down and try to save it. Since a few inches of the repair are on top of the trestle I may need to add some new trestle decking. I also ordered a couple more sections of bridge track so I had it on hand just in case we need plan B.
John,
I also tried to save this one but just knew it needed to be replaced. I think straightening your "S" curve was the correct decision also.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Powersteamguy1790 on March 16, 2017, 09:37:04 PM
Sometimes repairs are necessary Tom, to get things running perfectly. :) ;)
Stay cool and run steam....... 8) 8)
Bob,
This repair was necessary and long overdue.
Tom ;D
I got the plywood sanded smooth and then realized what went wrong.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160102.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160102.jpeg)
In looking at my initial center line, I realized it wasn't straight. I'm not sure how I did it but obviously I wasn't paying attention when gluing the cork to to both sides of the line.
The metal ruler is straight and the black line isn't.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160115.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160115.jpeg)
More in a few.
As long as the repair was being made, I decided to change the radius from 36" to 38". In the photo below, you can see the original 36" black radius line. The new cork roadbed is at 38" radius.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160131.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160131.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160146.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160146.jpeg)
More in a few.
I gave myself some transition space on the curve and then used the metal ruler to make sure the line was straight.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160200.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160200.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160214.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160214.jpeg)
I use the colored push pins to hold the cork as the glue dries.
I then cut a piece of cork to fill in the gap making sure the cork was flush against the ruler.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160214.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160214.jpeg)
More in a few.
I forgot to mention how I glue the cork to the plywood. It is probably mundane for most but it may be beneficial to some.
I lay a bead of carpenter's glue on the plywood and use my finger to smooth it out or some what flat.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160244.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160244.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160229.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160229.jpeg)
I do this for two reasons. One, it gives you more of a gluing surface for the cork. Secondly, and most important is that if you don't smooth the glue, you run the risk of not getting a flat or flush fit of the cork to the plywood. I've know some modelers who use a small wall paper roller to smooth the cork as it is glued.
NOTE: If you do use a roller, make sure the cork stays in place. The rolling pin action on the cork, on wet glue will move the cork. In other words, the cork will slide on the wet glue.
What you don't want is some bead of glue drying under the cork and making the cork unlevel.
More in a few.
I mentioned using push pins to hold the cork. When gluing the opposite cork piece, I only use the push pins directly across from the other ones.
I do this so I don't push or realign the cork on the one side. I push the cork tight against the other piece at the opposite push pin location and tack it in place with another push pin.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160257.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160257.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160325.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160325.jpeg)
Once all the cork is in place and secure with a gazillion push pins, I let it dry over night.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160311.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160311.jpeg)
I'll finish this section tomorrow afternoon/night.
Good save Tom.
An AS railroad teaser~
Hi all,
A 3 man Atlantic & Southern Railroad engine crew was running the rails on the famous AS main line and ran out of hours and had to stop in the local town inn of East Tahope. (near Baker's curve)
They walked up to the night desk clerk (Khaki Pants) and asked if they had a room available for the night.
The night desk clerk (KPI) replied, yes we do!
The Conductor (ACL 1504) aka (KPII) asked how much?
The clerk (KPI) replied, $30.00
The conductor (ACL 1504) aka (KPII) said to the crew (Baker & DeMayo) that's good, we'll share the cost. $10.00 each. "Damn frugal railroaders". ha.
The clerk (KPI) gave the conductor (ACL 1504) aka (KPII) the key to the room and showed them the elevator.
As the elevator started up, the night manager (the Judge) came up to the clerk and asked how much did you charge the guests?
He replied, $30.00.
The manager (the Judge) said, we have a special today. The rate is $26.00, go give them the $4.00 return.
As the clerk (KPI) was going up in the elevator it occurred to him, how could he return $4.00 evenly to 3 rough, tough looking & stinky railroaders?
When the elevator doors open the clerk (KPI) decided to keep one $1.00 to himself (thief) and tell the 3 rough, tough looking & stinky crewmen about the special room rate today.
The clerk (KPI) said that the room was not $30.00, but was $27.00 and here was the $3.00 returned.
The conductor (ACL 1504) aka (KPII) said to the (R, TL & S) crewman, great! Here's a dollar back each! We ended up only paying $9.00 each.
So my question is: If the guys ended up paying $27.00 for the room and the clerk kept a $1.00 himself. That's $28.00. What happened to the remaining $2.00 from the original $30.00?
The AS railroad is such a complicated job? T...
KPII,
You are playing with numbers and words.
If the price was $26.00 for 3, then they paid roughly $8.67 each for the room. Actually, two of them only paid $8.66. The dishonest desk clerk kept $4.00. Thanks to the honest Judge, he returned $3.00, $1.00 to each A&S employee making the room payment $9.67 for one and $9.66 for two. The clerk's $1.00 (tip, actually .99 cents) brings the total to $30.00.
There is no missing money.
KPII AKA: ACL1504
I'm not really worried about the not really missing money. I'm more concerned about why Thom felt it necessary to state that the clerk wore khaki pants. I'm glad the clerk wore pants...but why did we need to know that?
Tom,
Your track now has a really nice flow to it. I'm guessing this will become a favorite spot for railfans.
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 18, 2017, 06:56:46 AM
KPII,
You are playing with numbers and words.
If the price was $26.00 for 3, then they paid roughly $8.67 each for the room. Actually, two of them only paid $8.66. The dishonest desk clerk kept $4.00. Thanks to the honest Judge, he returned $3.00, $1.00 to each A&S employee making the room payment $9.67 for one and $9.66 for two. The clerk's $1.00 (tip, actually .99 cents) brings the total to $30.00.
There is no missing money.
KPII AKA: ACL1504
KPII,
Ha. you are exactly right! I guess now everyone knows you're a very smart man. KPI...
Quote from: jerryrbeach on March 18, 2017, 07:43:57 AM
I'm not really worried about the not really missing money. I'm more concerned about why Thom felt it necessary to state that the clerk wore khaki pants. I'm glad the clerk wore pants...but why did we need to know that?
Jerry,
Ha. Sorry, but you got misdirected with the pants. Sometimes wearing Khaki Pants is the focus! Tom has the inside story on the pants. Ha. Thanx Thom...
Quote from: jerryrbeach on March 18, 2017, 07:43:57 AM
I'm not really worried about the not really missing money. I'm more concerned about why Thom felt it necessary to state that the clerk wore khaki pants. I'm glad the clerk wore pants...but why did we need to know that?
According to my USMC drill instructors in OCS, the desk clerk wore trousers if he was male and pants if she was female.
In the interest of this being a G rated site, I'll stop there with the explanation. You'll just have to trust me on this one. 8) :)
Money owed or missing, pants vs. trousers.....this all too confusing at this time of the morning. ???
Another AS Teaser...
Hi all,
Raymo (not wearing Khaki Pants) is fishing off the trestle at Suwannee River Drawbridge and the Judge & ACL 1504 come out of Delwins just down the tracks by Lagoon and see Engineer Frank Baker (also not wearing Kahki Pants) driving his Erie S-4 class 2-8-4 Berkshire headed towards fisherman (Raymo).
ACL 1504 (KPII) says to the Judge who does wear Khaki Pants (just not today) here we go again! The Judge (not wearing Khaki Pants today) replies, I wonder if the fisherman (Raymo) see's Frank's train coming at him?
Well wouldn't you know the fisherman (Raymo) who is fishing 1/3 off from one side of the trestle sees the train coming towards him.
Raymo (the fisherman) knows if he runs towards Frank's train (Erie S-4 class 2-8-4 Berkshire), he can get off the trestle, before the train passes.
The fisherman (Raymo) Also knows if he runs away from Frank's train (Erie S-4 class 2-8-4 Berkshire), he can get off the trestle, Just before the train passes.
My Question is:
How much faster must Raymo run than Frank's train is traveling past the Judge & ACL 1504 just coming out of Delwins?
The AS railroad is such a complicated job? T...
Quote from: jerryrbeach on March 18, 2017, 07:43:57 AM
I'm not really worried about the not really missing money. I'm more concerned about why Thom felt it necessary to state that the clerk wore khaki pants. I'm glad the clerk wore pants...but why did we need to know that?
Jerry,
The Khaki Pants story is a take off from the State Farm Commercial. You know the guy is on the phone and the nosey wife comes down and says who are you talking to.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jerryrbeach on March 18, 2017, 07:45:24 AM
Tom,
Your track now has a really nice flow to it. I'm guessing this will become a favorite spot for railfans.
Jerry,
This repair was long overdue. It does flow better and the trains love it.
The has already been a video made on the curve. More on that later.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on March 18, 2017, 09:05:59 AM
Quote from: jerryrbeach on March 18, 2017, 07:43:57 AM
I'm not really worried about the not really missing money. I'm more concerned about why Thom felt it necessary to state that the clerk wore khaki pants. I'm glad the clerk wore pants...but why did we need to know that?
According to my USMC drill instructors in OCS, the desk clerk wore trousers if he was male and pants if she was female.
In the interest of this being a G rated site, I'll stop there with the explanation. You'll just have to trust me on this one. 8) :)
Chip,
I do trust you on that but in today's Army, anything can be worn.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 18, 2017, 09:16:27 AM
Money owed or missing, pants vs. trousers.....this all too confusing at this time of the morning. ???
Forrest Gump's Momma said, "Stupid is as stupid does sir."
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on March 18, 2017, 09:36:59 AM
Another AS Teaser...
Hi all,
Raymo (not wearing Khaki Pants) is fishing off the trestle at Suwannee River Drawbridge and the Judge & ACL 1504 come out of Delwins just down the tracks by Lagoon and see Engineer Frank Baker (also not wearing Kahki Pants) driving his Erie S-4 class 2-8-4 Berkshire headed towards fisherman (Raymo).
ACL 1504 (KPII) says to the Judge who does wear Khaki Pants (just not today) here we go again! The Judge (not wearing Khaki Pants today) replies, I wonder if the fisherman (Raymo) see's Frank's train coming at him?
Well wouldn't you know the fisherman (Raymo) who is fishing 1/3 off from one side of the trestle sees the train coming towards him.
Raymo (the fisherman) knows if he runs towards Frank's train (Erie S-4 class 2-8-4 Berkshire), he can get off the trestle, before the train passes.
The fisherman (Raymo) Also knows if he runs away from Frank's train (Erie S-4 class 2-8-4 Berkshire), he can get off the trestle, Just before the train passes.
My Question is:
How much faster must Raymo run than Frank's train is traveling past the Judge & ACL 1504 just coming out of Delwins?
The AS railroad is such a complicated job? T...
Okay, if Raymo is 1/3 of the way on the trestle it means he is 2/3 from the other end.
If the train is coming at him from the 1/3 end, he only has to run that distance to get off the trestle. However, if the train is coming at him from the 2/3 end of the trestle, he would have to run twice as fast on the 2/3 section of the trestle to get off prior to the trains arrival.
Tom ;D
First off, Raymo tries to make himself aware of his surroundings and stays off of active railroad trestles. Second, Raymo's days of running are over, my body can't handle it anymore. That being said I work around water almost every day, unless there's a gator in that water, I'm getting wet! ;D
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 18, 2017, 12:54:18 PM
Quote from: tct855 on March 18, 2017, 09:36:59 AM
Another AS Teaser...
Hi all,
Raymo (not wearing Khaki Pants) is fishing off the trestle at Suwannee River Drawbridge and the Judge & ACL 1504 come out of Delwins just down the tracks by Lagoon and see Engineer Frank Baker (also not wearing Kahki Pants) driving his Erie S-4 class 2-8-4 Berkshire headed towards fisherman (Raymo).
ACL 1504 (KPII) says to the Judge who does wear Khaki Pants (just not today) here we go again! The Judge (not wearing Khaki Pants today) replies, I wonder if the fisherman (Raymo) see's Frank's train coming at him?
Well wouldn't you know the fisherman (Raymo) who is fishing 1/3 off from one side of the trestle sees the train coming towards him.
Raymo (the fisherman) knows if he runs towards Frank's train (Erie S-4 class 2-8-4 Berkshire), he can get off the trestle, before the train passes.
The fisherman (Raymo) Also knows if he runs away from Frank's train (Erie S-4 class 2-8-4 Berkshire), he can get off the trestle, Just before the train passes.
My Question is:
How much faster must Raymo run than Frank's train is traveling past the Judge & ACL 1504 just coming out of Delwins?
The AS railroad is such a complicated job? T...
Okay, if Raymo is 1/3 of the way on the trestle it means he is 2/3 from the other end.
If the train is coming at him from the 1/3 end, he only has to run that distance to get off the trestle. However, if the train is coming at him from the 2/3 end of the trestle, he would have to run twice as fast on the 2/3 section of the trestle to get off prior to the trains arrival.
Tom ;D
.....or he can just jump off the bridge, rather than take a chance tripping in front of the loco and take his chances with the gators. ;D
Quote from: Raymo on March 18, 2017, 01:31:51 PM
First off, Raymo tries to make himself aware of his surroundings and stays off of active railroad trestles. Second, Raymo's days of running are over, my body can't handle it anymore. That being said I work around water almost every day, unless there's a gator in that water, I'm getting wet! ;D
Raymo,
I'm with you. I just pray the water will be deep enough.
Tom ;D
Better to be gator meat than minced meat.
Tom ;D
Okay, back to the normal programming.
Tom ;D
After the push pins were removed, I used sandpaper on a block of wood to sand and smooth the top of the cork roadbed.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160337.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160337.jpeg)
Now I'm ready to lay the new track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160351.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160351.jpeg)
More in a few.
I'm sure many of you, unless you are hand laying your track, have purchased a bundle of Code 83 Micro Engineering flex track.
They tape the six sections of track together using black electrical tape. The rails are all facing inwards and the tape wraps around the ties.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160403.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160403.jpeg)
It seems like they enjoy doing just the opposite on the other side. The tape is wrapped across the rails. This gets on my nerves more than anything. I even called them and asked them why and was told they just wrap the track.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160417.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160417.jpeg)
I suggested if one side can be wrapped with the ties outward, then the other side can as well. Well, you see how my suggestion made sense to them.
Now the black electrical tape goo has to be removed.
More in a few.
The track was spliced in and all is well with the Atlantic and Southern RR.
Did I ever mention that level track is a good thing?
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160430.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160430.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160442.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160317160442.jpeg)
A little more in a little bit of time. Actually, it's Diet Pepsi time followed by a video.
I forgot to remind everyone that the track repair was made on Baker's Curve. This area will be a rural farm area in the next month or so.
Here is Frank Baker's Erie S-4 Berkshire testing the new section of track. This repair was long overdue and is certainly for the better.
[/color]
You did a great repair and nice video.
Curt,
Thank you, much appreciated. I put off this repair for the better part of a year.
Next time you come to Colonial P&H come on by and see what I've been doing on the layout.
Tom ;D
Beautiful track repair Tom.... :) ;)
Stay cool and run steam......... 8) 8) Looks like you did Tom. ;D ;D
Tom,
I agree with (PSG & PRR). You did a good job on both engine and video. That engine pulls nice. Frank will need to build a bigger railroad so that engine can really stretch out a consist. Thanx Thom...
Thank you Tom. I will take you up on the offer. I would love to see your layout.
Tom,
Nice start after the water stop video. Oops I'll let you post it first. One thing I noticed or lack there of; was the firebox was not burning? I know you can stoke a fire because your engine on the next track has a good one goin'. KPI
Quote from: tct855 on March 18, 2017, 05:08:24 PM
Tom,
Nice start after the water stop video. Oops I'll let you post it first. One thing I noticed or lack there of; was the firebox was not burning? I know you can stoke a fire because your engine on the next track has a good one goin'. KPI
I didn't add Firebox lights to Frank's loco. Please don't hate me or think less of me. I'm just not up to the brass experts in Baaaastan. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
T
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 18, 2017, 06:06:13 PM
Quote from: tct855 on March 18, 2017, 05:08:24 PM
Tom,
Nice start after the water stop video. Oops I'll let you post it first. One thing I noticed or lack there of; was the firebox was not burning? I know you can stoke a fire because your engine on the next track has a good one goin'. KPI
I didn't add Firebox lights to Frank's loco. Please don't hate me or think less of me. I'm just not up to the brass experts in Baaaastan. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
T
Slouch! Ha. I know you didn't, I figured I'd poke the bear, Smokey Bear that is. hint... ThanxThom...
Thom,
Okay, you poked him good. Just remember what they same about waking sleeping dogs.
T
Lookin good Tom.
Quote from: tct855 on March 18, 2017, 06:11:58 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 18, 2017, 06:06:13 PM
Quote from: tct855 on March 18, 2017, 05:08:24 PM
Tom,
Nice start after the water stop video. Oops I'll let you post it first. One thing I noticed or lack there of; was the firebox was not burning? I know you can stoke a fire because your engine on the next track has a good one goin'. KPI
I didn't add Firebox lights to Frank's loco. Please don't hate me or think less of me. I'm just not up to the brass experts in Baaaastan. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
T
Slouch! Ha. I know you didn't, I figured I'd poke the bear, Smokey Bear that is. hint... ThanxThom...
Play nice boys or your Moms will have to send you to your rooms. ;D ;D ;D
Tom,
I said that the new track would be a great spot for railfans, and your video proved it! Loved all the videos of that beautiful Erie engine!
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 16, 2017, 11:13:23 AM
Quote from: S&S RR on March 13, 2017, 09:15:53 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 11, 2017, 06:16:58 PM
Quote from: S&S RR on March 10, 2017, 09:37:32 PM
Tom
The thread and the layout are looking great - you sure put a lot of work into rebuilding the thread. Thank you for sharing it all with us - again. Please take a few minutes and do a backup like we talked about. Just say-in!
John,
Thanks for the kind words of support. I'm working on the backup and may be calling you in a few days.
Tom ;D
Tom
Call any time. You are posting like a crazy man. I had to go back 5 pages to find where I left off.
Johm,
Thanks my friend. My posts come in bunches like bananas. One to many at a time.
Tom ;D
Bananas you say????? More like a bunch of grapes!!!!
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 16, 2017, 11:19:38 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 16, 2017, 09:21:47 AM
Are you slacking again.....no progress posts since the 13th. :o ;) ::)
Greg,
What me, a slacker? Well, sometimes but here I was only spoon feeding the information. 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Tom's spoon....
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FwAGRK.jpg&hash=447986550ecd6249150c6e074a658f4090949651)
Quote from: jerryrbeach on March 19, 2017, 09:22:45 AM
Tom,
I said that the new track would be a great spot for railfans, and your video proved it! Loved all the videos of that beautiful Erie engine!
Jerry,
That is a great spot for train watching. In this area of the layout, the train will pass through a sand hill cut in the middle of a farm scene.
Thanks for following along.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on March 20, 2017, 01:51:14 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on March 16, 2017, 11:19:38 AM
Quote from: GPdemayo on March 16, 2017, 09:21:47 AM
Are you slacking again.....no progress posts since the 13th. :o ;) ::)
Greg,
What me, a slacker? Well, sometimes but here I was only spoon feeding the information
Tom ;D
Tom's spoon....
(https://modelersforum.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FwAGRK.jpg&hash=447986550ecd6249150c6e074a658f4090949651) (http://i.imgur.com/wAGRK.jpg)
Donato,
Wow, that is some kind of big spoon. I don't even think it will fit in my big mouth. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Okay folks, I think I'm back working on the layout. I have lots to do. And, I've already got a lot done.
I'll be sharing all the new stuff in the coming days, weeks and month.
I'm also going to start a new feature in the thread called Throwback Thursday. Every Thursday, I'm going to show one, two and maybe three pictures or a video of the last two layouts.
Today the Judge and I shot a video of the ACL Florida Special followed by the South Wind. The Florida Special is showing green makers indicating a following section of the train, The South Wind.
Oops, sorry, I didn't realize I got the crime scene card in the video. My bad!
[/size][/font][/color]
Love the videos, especially played at 720 or better HD.....the little people in the observation car look great. 8)
Tom excellent modeling and great video.
Keep them coming Tom.
Tom,
Like the new video. Great to see you back behind the camera and working on the RR again.
Tommy
Tom,
As far as I can tell, the only crime is the video is too short!
Great video. Is the Po Po hiding behind the billboard going to run down and stop the trains Greg "Fireball" DeMayo is running when they speed thru the area? :D :D ;)
Quote from: GPdemayo on April 08, 2017, 05:30:23 PM
Love the videos, especially played at 720 or better HD.....the little people in the observation car look great. 8)
Greg,
Thanks for stopping by. It was good to see you and Pegi yesterday. Glad she's doing fine as well.
We need to populate more passenger cars.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 08, 2017, 06:01:52 PM
Tom excellent modeling and great video.
Curt,
Thank you sir, very much appreciated. I'm happy to be back in the process after the three months of rehab.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ak-milw on April 08, 2017, 08:19:20 PM
Keep them coming Tom.
Andy,
Will do and thanks very much for checking in and getting updated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tom.boyd.125 on April 09, 2017, 03:20:17 AM
Tom,
Like the new video. Great to see you back behind the camera and working on the RR again.
Tommy
Tommy,
Thank you, and yes, it is very good to be back. The three months off from the prostate surgery was a long process but it is now time to get back to work.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jerryrbeach on April 09, 2017, 09:17:06 AM
Tom,
As far as I can tell, the only crime is the video is too short!
Jerry,
That's a good one. Yes, they are to short so I need to get more scenery done so I don't keep showing the same scenes over with different trains.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on April 09, 2017, 09:38:07 AM
Great video. Is the Po Po hiding behind the billboard going to run down and stop the trains Greg "Fireball" DeMayo is running when they speed thru the area? :D :D ;)
Bob,
Thanks for stopping by. The PoPo behind your wonderful billboard is for the local speed trap. The West Tahope City Council put the word out to pick up some much needed revenue.
Engineer "Fireball" DeMayo has been cited by the A&S RR Police for excessive speed in the "restricted speed zone". He will be given a defective throttle if that behavior continues.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on April 09, 2017, 09:38:07 AM
Great video. Is the Po Po hiding behind the billboard going to run down and stop the trains Greg "Fireball" DeMayo is running when they speed thru the area? :D :D ;)
Damn the torpedoes.....full speed ahead. ;D
Over the past few days, I placed some structures on the rural portion of the layout. I need a water tank, small station, a small shack and another cracker house.
The photo below shows approximately where the structures will probably go.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090417125512.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090417125512.jpeg)
The station is an AMB ACL station. It is the full size. I'll build another one and kit bash it to half the size of the one shown below.
I'll also need to scratch build a small took shack unless I can find one in all my structures stash.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090417125527.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090417125527.jpeg)
After seeing the structures in the photos, I'll move the cracker house back and to the left a bit.
I've also started some preliminary scenery in the area.
More on this tomorrow.
Looking forward to another great scene being built Tom.
Tom
Great to hear you our back working on the layout. Make sure you follow the break-in schedule the doctor gave you.
Looking good Tom. I think my next project is going to be from AMB.
Tom, I am ready for more.
Quote from: Janbouli on April 10, 2017, 07:44:16 PM
Looking forward to another great scene being built Tom.
Jan,
Thanks for following along. I hope I don't disappoint you on this section.
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on April 10, 2017, 08:09:48 PM
Tom
Great to hear you our back working on the layout. Make sure you follow the break-in schedule the doctor gave you.
John,
I appreciate you checking in. I've followed the doctor's to the letter for sure. However, I'm not yet going "B--ls to the wall" at this time.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 10, 2017, 08:15:05 PM
Looking good Tom. I think my next project is going to be from AMB.
Curt,
Thanks you, much appreciated. The AMB kits are fun, not my favorite, but they make great structures all the same.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ak-milw on April 10, 2017, 08:30:08 PM
Tom, I am ready for more.
Andy,
Okey Dokey, stay tuned for more.
Tom ;D
Last week I added the full strength white glue to seal the cardboard road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090417125445.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090417125445.jpeg)
When it dried, I added a little in the crack to level it.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090417125458.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090417125458.jpeg)
I wanted to make this road an asphalt road. Arizona Rock sells a product called Asphalt, it's in a mix. I followed the instructions and placed some on a sample piece of cardboard. It turned out so bad I won't even show it here. All I'll say is that it a dang mess to mix and even harder to spread to even come close to anything asphalt.
So, I just painted the road with Floquil Reefer Gray. It is a little dark but I'll lighten it later with pastels.
More in a few.
In this next photo you can see the dark gray road. The road has been dry and cured for a few days. I used blue painters tape to cover the edge of the road as I filled in the gap between the old dirt road and the asphalt road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417184857.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417184857.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417184911.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417184911.jpeg)
More in a few.
Here is an over all view of the road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417184937.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417184937.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417184924.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417184924.jpeg)
Continued tomorrow evening.
Wow, I just noticed the last photo was number 2050. Two thousand fifty pictures in the thread. No wonder I'm still building the layout! 8) 8) 8) 8)
Tom :o
KPII,
Was curious, did you ever get that 5 to 1 counter fixed on your camera yet? KP...
Quote from: tct855 on April 11, 2017, 07:33:23 PM
KPII,
Was curious, did you ever get that 5 to 1 counter fixed on your camera yet? KP...
KPI,
Not sure I understand the 5-1 issue. I'm old so keep that in mind. How about a friendly reminder?
Tom AKA: KPII
Today the Judge came by and we shot many videos with different trains. I'll share a couple here but the others need a little editing. I've yet to learn that part. Good videos but editing is necessary.
Tom ;D
The Judge decided to bring out the ACL East Coast Champion. He was at the throttle in less than Greg Speed while crossing the Suwannee River Basin.
[/size][/font]
The Champion leaves Eaton's Curve and enters West Tahope.
[/size][/font]
I'll have a scenery update later this afternoon.
Tom ;D
Great videos and modeling. The judge is your Dad right?
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 12, 2017, 05:15:54 PM
Great videos and modeling. The judge is your Dad right?
Curt,
Thanks, much appreciated.
The Judge is Bill Eaton. He is a retired Circuit Court Judge from Seminole County and a nationally renowned expert on the Death Penalty. He is/was the Judge the National Judicial College used to teach the other Judges around the states on handling death penalty cases.
He thinks he's my father. Just kidding.
My Father, Carl T. Langford, now deceased, was the Mayor of Orlando from 1966 to 1980. He is responsible for signing the contract with Walt Disney to bring the mouse factory here. I'm not sure it was a good thing.
Like Paul Harvey said, "Now you know the rest of the story"!
Tom
I started bringing the scenery up to the road. I painted full strength white glue next to the old scenery and the road and added the first layer of WS earth for the base. You can see some of the white glue in the earth.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417184950.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417184950.jpeg)
I then added matte medium to the area and added some ground cover.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417185039.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417185039.jpeg)
Once this area is good and dry, I'll add a final layer of weeds and other scenic materials.
Continued in a few.
The spackle is now dry so I painted white glue full strength on the spackle and added a base layer of sand.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417185002.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417185002.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417185015.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417185015.jpeg)
When this dries, I'll add a top layer of Scenic Express dirt to match the rest of the dirt road already in place.
More in a few.
In the next photo you can see I've added some dirt to the top of the sand. It is almost dry. When dry, I'll do some touch up and get the next picture.
Also, you can see I've started added scenery to the other side of the track. The scenery on the right is very wet with matte medium.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417185027.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417185027.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417185039.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-110417185039.jpeg)
I should have more scenery in a few days.
Tom - I agree with you about the Arizona Rock product. It seems to be more trouble than it's worth Jim
While train watching this afternoon, the Judge and I heard the heavy exhaust of an ACL R1 class 4-8-4. The R1 was struggling to pull a loaded billboard reefer train up to the water tank and top off the tender. The Engineer applied the brakes for the stop. He blew the steam boat whistle one time to indicate the train was stopped.
It didn't take much to top off the tender and the Engineer blew two blasts of the whistle to start. The heavy exhaust was deafening as it left the tower. The ground shook and as the massive loco gained speed the steam boat whistle could be heard for several miles.
It left West Tahope with a full load and was last seen headed for Eaton's Curve and the Suwannee River Basin.
In the background, you can hear a Fireman working hard on shoveling coal into his Seaboard Mikado. The loco is on the back outbound track behind the water tank.
[/color]
Quote from: jrmueller on April 12, 2017, 06:00:19 PM
Tom - I agree with you about the Arizona Rock product. It seems to be more trouble than it's worth Jim
Jim,
I'm going to practice with it down the road but for now it's a bottom of the list priority. Reading Bob used it and he said it took a bit of work to get the 50/50 water glue mix right but he said it turned out fine.
Tom ;D
Great looking train and sounding steamer.
Nice videos. New area is looking good so far. Good to see a CB&Q boxcar on your pike. :)
Jeff
Coming along nicely Tom. You really have the eye for putting a scene together.
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 12, 2017, 05:27:09 PM
My Father, Carl T. Langford, now deceased, was the Mayor of Orlando from 1966 to 1980. He is responsible for signing the contract with Walt Disney to bring the mouse factory here. I'm not sure it was a good thing.
Well , I certainly think it was a good thing , I loved Disney Orlando and may never be able to visit California , it's a bit further away. ;)
What's with he Greg speed? ???
Sometimes a little high balling is necessary so the passengers don't make complaint calls to the suits about late arrivals or the freight gets there on time before the product goes bad. ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 12, 2017, 06:41:59 PM
Great looking train and sounding steamer.
Curt,
Thanks very much, I appreciate you checking in.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on April 12, 2017, 08:50:49 PM
Nice videos. New area is looking good so far. Good to see a CB&Q boxcar on your pike. :)
Jeff
Jeff,
Much appreciated. Yes, I actually have several CB&Q boxcars. I really like the logo.
Tom ;D
Quote from: MAP on April 13, 2017, 05:18:20 AM
Coming along nicely Tom. You really have the eye for putting a scene together.
Mark,
Thank you for the kind words of support. I do look forward to your visit when you get around to being in the South.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on April 13, 2017, 06:01:00 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 12, 2017, 05:27:09 PM
My Father, Carl T. Langford, now deceased, was the Mayor of Orlando from 1966 to 1980. He is responsible for signing the contract with Walt Disney to bring the mouse factory here. I'm not sure it was a good thing.
Well , I certainly think it was a good thing , I loved Disney Orlando and may never be able to visit California , it's a bit further away. ;)
Jan,
Yes, it was a great thing for the economy. I was speaking from a law enforcement point of view having spent the better part of 26 years in LE and 7 years with the State Attorney's Office. With all the great things that came with WDW, it also brought 1.5 million extra people to the area to live, work and commit crimes. :'(
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on April 13, 2017, 09:15:48 AM
What's with he Greg speed? ???
Sometimes a little high balling is necessary so the passengers don't make complaint calls to the suits about late arrivals or the freight gets there on time before the product goes bad. ;D
Greg,
Nice try but remember, if the shoe fits!
Tom ;D
I marked where the rural structures will go.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150417163831.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150417163831.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150417163851.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150417163851.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150417163905.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150417163905.jpeg)
Just like all engineers, the Judge also likes to block all roadways.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150417163958.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150417163958.jpeg)
More in a few.
I'm going to put a small pond with and oil slick here.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150417163926.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150417163926.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150417163943.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-150417163943.jpeg)
I happened to be watching a Seaboard ALCO S-2 switcher working the West Tahope Yard. There must have been a rookie at the throttle or taking lessons from Greg. The first pick up was banged and pushed back a few feet. Slow down there, Lord only knows what was broken in some of the boxcars.
Tom ;D
Great work so far Tom. I look forward to seeing your progress.
Must have been a Tourist in that switcher.......right foot on the gas, left foot on the brakes......stop, go, stop, go, repeat.
Jim
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 15, 2017, 07:14:46 PM
Great work so far Tom. I look forward to seeing your progress.
Curt,
Thank you, I look forward to getting it done.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on April 15, 2017, 09:50:56 PM
Must have been a Tourist in that switcher.......right foot on the gas, left foot on the brakes......stop, go, stop, go, repeat.
Jim
Jim,
I think you are correct. It must have been a tourist. Otherwise, Greg is rubbing off on the Judge.
Tom ;D
I started the scenery on the rural area of the layout. This area is about 4.5 feet in length. I painted white glue over the area and then covered the white glue with a 50/50 mix of Woodland Scenics Fine Turf. The mixture I used was Earth #T1342 and Burnt Grass # T1344.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150458.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150458.jpeg)
I let the WS material soak into the glue for a few hours.
I then wet this area with matte medium. I then added several layers of scenic materials. I used both WS and SE scenery.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150727.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150727.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150740.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150740.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150754.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150754.jpeg)
While that was drying, I moved to the dirt road. I previously marked off the road area. I painted white glue on the pink foam and then spread some sand for the road base.
This is a departure from my past dirt roads. I'm trying different mediums as I don't want the entire layout to be the same old dirt from Scenic Express.
I got this sand from a local playground. I sifted the sand to get out the large particles leaving me only the very fine sand. I baked the remaining sand in a cake pan in the oven at 250 degrees to kill any microscopic bugs or other stuff.
The sand was dumped on the white glue and then spread even over the top. I forgot to get a picture of the spreading.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150511.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150511.jpeg)
I then added some white glue to the track crossing area and then added the sand.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150524.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150524.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150537.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150537.jpeg)
Continued after a Diet Pepsi break.
I used an old Kadee truck to push the sand from the inside rails.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150550.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150550.jpeg)
The entire dirt/sand road was saturated with matte medium.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150602.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150602.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150616.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150616.jpeg)
More in a few.
After several hours of letting the matte medium dry, I used a punch point to compress the sand from the inside rails, meaning to clear a flange way for the wheels.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150629.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150629.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150642.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150642.jpeg)
I'm going to add more sand, white sand, to the top of this road when the matte medium is thoroughly dry. This white sand will represent how the Florida rural areas look.
I'll have more tomorrow.
Really looking Tom you are all most done with your roads....... Oh I forgot about the other level. Sorry
Looking good Tom.
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on April 16, 2017, 04:22:08 PM
Really looking Tom you are all most done with your roads....... Oh I forgot about the other level. Sorry
Bill,
Thank you kind sir. I do appreciate your support on the thread. Yea more roads on the third level but probably won't be that many dirt ones.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 16, 2017, 04:28:34 PM
Looking good Tom.
Curt,
As always, I appreciate you following along and commenting. Thank you.
Tom ;D
Tom
The layout looks great - I finally got caught up on your progress. You have sure done a lot of posting to get your thread back up-to-date. Thank you for all the hard work and for sharing your layout with us.
Quote from: S&S RR on April 17, 2017, 09:08:37 AM
Tom
The layout looks great - I finally got caught up on your progress. You have sure done a lot of posting to get your thread back up-to-date. Thank you for all the hard work and for sharing your layout with us.
John,
Thank you and yes, I've been very busy getting caught up on what was lost from the crash. I would've preferred to not have to do it but things happen.
Thanks John for following along.
Tom ;D
I've been very busy making Florida pine trees from the SE super trees. I'll show the process when finished.
The scenery in the rural area continues. While the dirt/sand road was drying, I moved back to the photo backdrop and the shrubs and fillers in front of it.
I applied a line of white glue along the back portion of the scenery.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150714.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150714.jpeg)
I then gathered all the broken trees and branches and mixed them in a large tub.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150821.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150821.jpeg)
More in a few.
I grabbed some of the old broken scenery and pushed it into the line of white glue.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150859.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150859.jpeg)
I put the tub on the layout for easy access for the shrubs and broken branches.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150845.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-160417150845.jpeg)
More in a few.
Here is how it looked after all the shrubs and underbrush were added.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180417184936.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180417184936.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180417184948.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180417184948.jpeg)
More ground cover materials, weeds, bushes, etc. will be added to this area as I plant the trees.
More in a few.
I temporarily planted a few trees to get an idea of the additional ground cover look I'm after.
The pink foam work out great for just pushing the tree trunks in to the ground/foam.
The two pine trees are the two I made two years ago. My how time does fly!
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180417185000.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180417185000.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180417185013.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-180417185013.jpeg)
Beautiful modeling Tom. I think that was a smart use of the broken parts.
Looking really good Tom. It's really enjoyable watching the progress you're making, and seeing how you actually do it is fantastic. Thanks for all of the photos.
Looking good Tom.....you and Bill play nice today. ;D
Tom.....is there ANYTHING you CAN'T do....???
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 18, 2017, 08:32:14 PM
Beautiful modeling Tom. I think that was a smart use of the broken parts.
Curt,
Thanks, much appreciated. I don't throw any scenery material away, especially any broken super trees that have foliage added.
Tom ;D
Quote from: MAP on April 19, 2017, 07:34:38 AM
Looking really good Tom. It's really enjoyable watching the progress you're making, and seeing how you actually do it is fantastic. Thanks for all of the photos.
Mark,
I'm very pleased you are enjoying the thread. The photos do take time but it is a build thread so I add plenty of photos to go with the explanations. Time consuming but enjoyable.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on April 19, 2017, 09:01:58 AM
Looking good Tom.....you and Bill play nice today. ;D
Greg,
I had to cancel the Judge today due to the plummer coming.
By the way, I found a picture of you running the trains.
Tom 8)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190417153116.gif) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190417153116.gif)
Quote from: Donato on April 19, 2017, 11:22:59 AM
Tom.....is there ANYTHING you CAN'T do.... ???
Donato,
Thank you my friend for the compliment. Yes, there are many things I can't do. The big one is that I can't get Greg to run the trains at a safe speed.
Tom ;D
The Atlantic and Southern Railroad is donating some WWII surplus to the Defense Department should we find our nation at war with North Korea.
[/color]
ACL 1504,
I like the surplus tank models. Curious are they Sherman M4's not sure if they're A1's though? Thanx Thom...
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 19, 2017, 03:32:48 PM
Quote from: GPdemayo on April 19, 2017, 09:01:58 AM
Looking good Tom.....you and Bill play nice today. ;D
Greg,
I had to cancel the Judge today due to the plummer coming.
By the way, I found a picture of you running the trains.
Tom 8)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190417153116.gif) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-190417153116.gif)
Where did you find that.....Dad told me that he had destroyed the original and all the copies. :(
Nice video Tom. Thanks for supporting our future war effort.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 19, 2017, 07:54:37 PM
Nice video Tom. Thanks for supporting our future war effort.
Agreed. Very nice. Not appropriate for your era but it does make me wonder what a MOAB would look like as a flatcar load. ;)
Tom, looking good! The video was a good mini-scene run through.
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 19, 2017, 03:35:34 PM
Quote from: Donato on April 19, 2017, 11:22:59 AM
Tom.....is there ANYTHING you CAN'T do.... ???
Donato,
Thank you my friend for the compliment. Yes, there are many things I can't do. The big one is that I can't get Greg to run the trains at a safe speed.
Tom ;D
You keep this up and the guys will get the wrong impression.....besides, the Shay doesn't go much over 15 mph. ;D
I could add more power to it and maybe get it up to a blistering 25 mph. 8)
Quote from: tct855 on April 19, 2017, 05:21:09 PM
ACL 1504,
I like the surplus tank models. Curious are they Sherman M4's not sure if they're A1's though? Thanx Thom...
Thom,
Yes, they are Rocco Sherman M4s.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 19, 2017, 07:54:37 PM
Nice video Tom. Thanks for supporting our future war effort.
Curt,
Thanks, much appreciated and you are welcome! 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on April 20, 2017, 08:10:27 AM
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 19, 2017, 07:54:37 PM
Nice video Tom. Thanks for supporting our future war effort.
Agreed. Very nice. Not appropriate for your era but it does make me wonder what a MOAB would look like as a flatcar load. ;)
Bob,
Thank you, it was a fun video. I'm not even sure the MOAB would fit on any of my flats.
Tom ;D
Quote from: MartyO on April 20, 2017, 08:18:43 AM
Tom, looking good! The video was a good mini-scene run through.
Marty,
Thank you kind sir. It was fun doing the video but I still need to learn how to edit and a better camera wouldn't hurt either. ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on April 20, 2017, 09:03:25 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 19, 2017, 03:35:34 PM
Quote from: Donato on April 19, 2017, 11:22:59 AM
Tom.....is there ANYTHING you CAN'T do.... ???
Donato,
Thank you my friend for the compliment. Yes, there are many things I can't do. The big one is that I can't get Greg to run the trains at a safe speed.
Tom ;D
You keep this up and the guys will get the wrong impression.....besides, the Shay doesn't go much over 15 mph. ;D
I could add more power to it and maybe get it up to a blistering 25 mph. 8)
I have no idea what you are talking about.
Tom ;D
Layout is looking great Tom!
John
Tom,
You did a beautiful job blending the foreground scenery into the backdrop, colors match so well, just amazing.
Quote from: Cuse on April 20, 2017, 08:42:29 PM
Layout is looking great Tom!
John
John,
Thanks very much. I'm getting back to full time on the layout.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jerryrbeach on April 21, 2017, 08:41:32 AM
Tom,
You did a beautiful job blending the foreground scenery into the backdrop, colors match so well, just amazing.
Jerry,
I appreciate you stopping by. Thank you for the compliment as well, it has been fun.
Tom ;D
Like John Siekirk, I've been busy making Florida Slash Pine trees. They are also known as Southern Pine and/or Pitch Pine.
These trees have a lot of sap (pine tar/pitch). As a boy, when camping in the woods we would look for downed pine trees for the fire. The Southern Pine trees burn fast and hot. Combine this with some Florida Oak which burns slow and hot - you have a great camp fire.
Here are some samples of Florida Pine trees. Pretty much anything goes as far as shape or size.
https://www.google.com/search?q=south+florida+slash+pine+tree&tbm=isch&imgil=3l74zXBdpWLyrM%253A%253BpXlLjyuA8CE0VM%253Bhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.floridagardener.com%25252Fflnatives%25252Fslashpine.htm&source=iu&pf=m&fir=3l74zXBdpWLyrM%253A%252CpXlLjyuA8CE0VM%252C_&usg=__vmbGrbHYV3QYOcW1OXx-PjANSc0%3D&biw=1440&bih=770&ved=0ahUKEwidwJjt5LjTAhUC5yYKHdfmDKEQyjcITQ&ei=ma37WN2PCYLOmwHXzbOICg#imgrc=3l74zXBdpWLyrM (https://www.google.com/search?q=south+florida+slash+pine+tree&tbm=isch&imgil=3l74zXBdpWLyrM%253A%253BpXlLjyuA8CE0VM%253Bhttp%25253A%25252F%25252Fwww.floridagardener.com%25252Fflnatives%25252Fslashpine.htm&source=iu&pf=m&fir=3l74zXBdpWLyrM%253A%252CpXlLjyuA8CE0VM%252C_&usg=__vmbGrbHYV3QYOcW1OXx-PjANSc0%3D&biw=1440&bih=770&ved=0ahUKEwidwJjt5LjTAhUC5yYKHdfmDKEQyjcITQ&ei=ma37WN2PCYLOmwHXzbOICg#imgrc=3l74zXBdpWLyrM):
More on how I made my pine trees later this afternoon.
To make the pine trees I started with the Scenic Express super trees. I trimmed two to start.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145833.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145833.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145847.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145847.jpeg)
More in a few.
I then cut out a little from the top area.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145902.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145902.jpeg)
Here is a better photo of how one looks after I removed some of the branches.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145915.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145915.jpeg)
I'm using several different trees in the photos so some will look different but the process is the same.
More in a few.
I then soaked the trees in matte medium for about 30 minutes. They were removed from the matte medium and hung up to dry. I soaked almost 175 trees to start the pine forest.
Here is a tree that is dry and ready for the trunk to get a better girth.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145928.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145928.jpeg)
Believe it or not, it has been over two years since I posted a question of Florida pine trees.
http://modelersforum.com/general-daily-discussion/opinion-on-pine-trees-florida-slash-pine-type/ (http://modelersforum.com/general-daily-discussion/opinion-on-pine-trees-florida-slash-pine-type/)
Bob Leonard, RWL forum menber, suggested a way to thicken the trunks on the super trees. His suggestion is on the second page.
I didn't follow exactly his method but I did use the information.
I mixed a 50/50 mix of Joint compound and full strength white glue. I didn't dilute the mix with water.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417151920.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417151920.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
As mentioned, I mixed it 50/50 in a plastic cup from Micro-Mark.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417151935.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417151935.jpeg)
The 50/50 mix was thick enough to not drip but thin enough to be painted on the tree trunks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145943.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145943.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145957.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417145957.jpeg)
Here are two that have the 50/50 mix painted on the trunks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150023.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150023.jpeg)
Here is one that is shaped differently.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150037.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150037.jpeg)
When I was finished with the mix I simply covered the cup with heavy aluminum foil. This mix is a week old and hasn't dried at all due to the foil seal.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417151948.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417151948.jpeg)
After the tree trunks dried, I sprayed the trees with Hammered Bronze Dark rattle can paint from Rust-Oleum.
I then dry brushed the trunks with Floquil Boxcar Red.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150051.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150051.jpeg)
Tree farm with joint compound/white glue tree trunks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150103.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150103.jpeg)
More in a few. Diet Pepsi time.
Before -
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150131.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150131.jpeg)
After -
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150118.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150118.jpeg)
More in a few.
Reading Bob and I attended the 2012 EXPO in Lancaster, PA. The very first purchase we made together was for the TURBO Tree foliage system sold by Hal Reynolds of Atlantic Scale Models.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150157.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150157.jpeg)
It only took me 5 years to use it but I'm telling you this little thing is amazing.
The bottom of the top has gator clip attached. Simply clip a tree to the clip. Put some scenic material of your choice in the clear plastic jar. There is a small servo type motor at the bottom of the jar that swirls the material around and onto the tree.
I first sprayed the tree with some Pantene (any hair spray should work fine) hair spray, put the tree in the clip and replaced the lid.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417152020.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417152020.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417152007.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417152007.jpeg)
I then turned on the system and here is how the tree came out. It took less than a minute to spray the tree, turn it on and remove the tree.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417152033.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417152033.jpeg)
The one change I made to Hal's tree foliage system was to install an on/off switch. If you don't you have to plug it in and unplug it to turn it off.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417152046.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417152046.jpeg)
More in a few.
This morning I put the Judge to work making a few trees.
In the next photo he is spraying hair spray on a tree. It looks like he doesn't have a tree in his left hand put he does.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150209.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150209.jpeg)
He put the tree in the jar and turned it on. He is holding it up so you can see the swirling action of the scenery foliage.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150145.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150145.jpeg)
More in a few.
I forgot to mention the material I'm using for the pine needles if Scenic Express 4 and 6 mm Silfor grass.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417180325.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417180325.jpeg)
Here is my version/vision of what a Southern Pine looks like.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150223.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150223.jpeg)
More in a few.
Here is another before and after for you viewing.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150238.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150238.jpeg)
I have another tree trunk farm going here.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150251.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150251.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
Just curious?
Prior to this morning, when was the last time The Judge had anything to do with hair spray? ;D
Here I have some pine trees waiting to be planted in the WPA, Works Progress Administration, fashion, in rows. The WPA was formed to put millions of Americans to work. It was formed in 1935 and dissolved in 1943.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150305.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150305.jpeg)
I did plant some others around the layout.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150332.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150332.jpeg)
Quote from: BandOGuy on April 22, 2017, 06:10:55 PM
Just curious?
Prior to this morning, when was the last time The Judge had anything to do with hair spray? ;D
Chip,
Happy belated Birthday. Now to answer the question. It has been decades for us both. He longer than me. 8)
I appreciate you checking in.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150346.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-220417150319.jpeg)
Beautiful work and how to. I am really looking forward to meeting you and seeing your layout in person next week.
Great tutorial on how to make the trees Tom. Love the in-process build photos and how the trees turned out.
The trees look terrific! I'm really glad one of us finally got to break in that Turbo Tree. ;D The whole scene is coming together wonderfully. :) :) :)
Thanks for the tutorial on tree making. My Turbo Tree has been unused as well, but that will hopefully soon change.
Jeff
Tom, a great tutorial. Try elasticometic (sp) paint, the paint for outside concrete/brick/stucco painting. Lowes and homedepot sell it.
Tom,
The trees are beautiful, thanks for the step by step.
Great looking trees Tom..... 8)
We like the way the tress are turning out Tom. They are all looking good including the new pine tress!!
Bill & Kris
Wow, real pine trees on a layout :o :o :o What will Tom think of next....real swamp water for the river basin.
Jim
WoW !!! That is all I can say. Your tutorial is informative and COMPLETE.
Quote from: jimmillho on April 23, 2017, 12:06:48 PM
Wow, real pine trees on a layout :o :o :o What will Tom think of next....real swamp water for the river basin.
Jim
Scene's will be complete when Tom figures out how to put miniature rednecks in rocking chairs which actually rock on the front porches, smoking cigars with glowing ends. ;)
Quote from: BandOGuy on April 23, 2017, 02:57:30 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on April 23, 2017, 12:06:48 PM
Wow, real pine trees on a layout :o :o :o What will Tom think of next....real swamp water for the river basin.
Jim
Scene's will be complete when Tom figures out how to put miniature rednecks in rocking chairs which actually rock on the front porches, smoking cigars with glowing ends. ;)
If anybody could do that, it would be Tom. Not Smoking but drinking Pepsi.
Jim
Thanks Tom for the detailed tutorial , love it.
Tom,
Nice work and tutorial by you and Judge! It's about time to almost see the Judge holding something other than a throttle. (snickering) Hey don't forget the occasional bird or pine cone in a tree or two. "said the guy who lives where pine tress are scarce. Thanx Thom....
Tom...
The Judge with a spray can into a five gallon bucket is me and my trees. I use sage brush armatures and blast them with 3M #77 to get stuff to stick. Hair spray is not enough around the sleeves of operators. Below is a photo of some trees taken during the FSM hopper deal.
I do like your plaster stuff for bulking up the tree trunks.
thanx
Bob
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/81-020816165137-15088266.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/81-020816165137-15088266.jpeg)
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 22, 2017, 06:49:31 PM
Beautiful work and how to. I am really looking forward to meeting you and seeing your layout in person next week.
Curt,
Thank you very much. I'm looking forward to meeting you on Wednesday as well. See you then.
Tom ;D
Quote from: MAP on April 23, 2017, 06:17:30 AM
Great tutorial on how to make the trees Tom. Love the in-process build photos and how the trees turned out.
Mark,
Much appreciated, thanks. I like to explain the step by step just so it's easier for others to follow.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on April 23, 2017, 08:57:57 AM
The trees look terrific! I'm really glad one of us finally got to break in that Turbo Tree. ;D The whole scene is coming together wonderfully. :) :) :)
Bob,
Thanks, very much appreciated. You'll get to use the Turbo Tree soon enough. It was the best purchase at that Expo. I noticed Hal's web site lists the Turbo Tree as out of Stock.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on April 23, 2017, 09:21:34 AM
Thanks for the tutorial on tree making. My Turbo Tree has been unused as well, but that will hopefully soon change.
Jeff
Jeff,
You are very welcome. I forgot I had it and it took me 10 minutes to remember where I hid it. I'm not sure how I lived without it.
Today, I timed myself and made two trees in 5 minutes without the Turbo Tree. Using the Turbo Tree, I made 7 tress in the same time, five minutes.
Well worth the purchase.
Tom ;D
Quote from: MartyO on April 23, 2017, 09:25:35 AM
Tom, a great tutorial. Try elasticometic (sp) paint, the paint for outside concrete/brick/stucco painting. Lowes and homedepot sell it.
Marty,
Thanks very much. Thanks for the info on the elastico stuff. However, I have all the joint compound to last me 10,000 trees or a lifetime.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jerryrbeach on April 23, 2017, 09:28:56 AM
Tom,
The trees are beautiful, thanks for the step by step.
Jerry,
Thank you and you are welcome.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on April 23, 2017, 10:01:10 AM
Great looking trees Tom..... 8)
Greg,
Thank you my friend.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on April 23, 2017, 11:16:45 AM
We like the way the tress are turning out Tom. They are all looking good including the new pine tress!!
Bill & Kris
Butties Bill and Kris,
Very much appreciate you checking in. I can't wait until you see them in virtual reality, May 11th.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on April 23, 2017, 12:06:48 PM
Wow, real pine trees on a layout :o :o :o What will Tom think of next....real swamp water for the river basin.
Jim
Jim,
Thanks Butty for stopping by. Yes, pine trees for real. The swamp water will be real Majic Swamp Water.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on April 23, 2017, 12:48:09 PM
WoW !!! That is all I can say. Your tutorial is informative and COMPLETE.
Donato,
I appreciate the compliment of WOW! I enjoyed the tutorial.
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on April 23, 2017, 02:57:30 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on April 23, 2017, 12:06:48 PM
Wow, real pine trees on a layout :o :o :o What will Tom think of next....real swamp water for the river basin.
Jim
Scene's will be complete when Tom figures out how to put miniature rednecks in rocking chairs which actually rock on the front porches, smoking cigars with glowing ends. ;)
Chip,
Hmmm, HO scale rednecks. rocking rocking chair and a lit stogie. Now that would be some kind of detail.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on April 23, 2017, 03:22:08 PM
Quote from: BandOGuy on April 23, 2017, 02:57:30 PM
Quote from: jimmillho on April 23, 2017, 12:06:48 PM
Wow, real pine trees on a layout :o :o :o What will Tom think of next....real swamp water for the river basin.
Jim
Scene's will be complete when Tom figures out how to put miniature rednecks in rocking chairs which actually rock on the front porches, smoking cigars with glowing ends. ;)
If anybody could do that, it would be Tom. Not Smoking but drinking Pepsi.
Jim
Jim,
I certainly like the Diet Pepsi drinking part.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on April 23, 2017, 04:35:50 PM
Thanks Tom for the detailed tutorial , love it.
Jan,
You are welcome and even if you don't come to the dark side, it will work on the other dark side as well.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on April 23, 2017, 04:52:19 PM
Tom,
Nice work and tutorial by you and Judge! It's about time to almost see the Judge holding something other than a throttle. (snickering) Hey don't forget the occasional bird or pine cone in a tree or two. "said the guy who lives where pine tress are scarce. Thanx Thom....
Thom,
I had to get him to put down the throttle to spray the tree. ;D ;D ;D ;D
You didn't see the pine cones?
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on April 24, 2017, 11:56:06 AM
Tom...
The Judge with a spray can into a five gallon bucket is me and my trees. I use sage brush armatures and blast them with 3M #77 to get stuff to stick. Hair spray is not enough around the sleeves of operators. Below is a photo of some trees taken during the FSM hopper deal.
I do like your plaster stuff for bulking up the tree trunks.
thanx
Bob
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/81-020816165137-15088266.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/81-020816165137-15088266.jpeg)
Bob,
Thanks for stopping by. The 3M #77 is appropriate for the sage trees. the hair spray works fine for the super trees. Your trees look great.
I can't take credit for the joint compound trucks, that honor goes to Bob Leonard, RWL.
Tom ;D
I'm going to take a few minutes to digest a Diet Pepsi. When I return, I'll show you the pine forest I started this afternoon.
Tom ;D
This afternoon I spent a few hours using the Turbo Tree to put foliage on 88 pine trees.
There's not much for me to say about the trees and how I planted them.
I will say that 88 pine trees don't go near far enough. I need about 100 more. I'll start them tomorrow.
I'm planting the trees in the back, "other side of the tracks" and then move to the front side of the tracks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181518.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181518.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181442.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181442.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181532.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181532.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181602.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181602.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181547.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181547.jpeg)
More in a few.
It looks so life like it's amazing.
Here is where I'll put the Cracker House. I still need to scratch build one. I borrowed this one from Eaton's Curve.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417182814.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417182814.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417182827.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417182827.jpeg)
More in a few.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 24, 2017, 06:28:47 PM
It looks so life like it's amazing.
Curt,
The compliment is very much appreciated. That's the look I want to achieve.
Tom ;D
The Ticket Agent who also happens to double as the Judge, thought it would be appropriate to have a WPA forest one in the rural area.
Here is the start. This is only 21 trees - half finished. I need to add 21 more for it to look believable. The other 21 will be to the right of the current trees. Anyway, here is half of the Judge's scheme.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181412.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181412.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181501.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181501.jpeg)
Johnny Appleseed,aka 1504, you are doing an absolutely wonderful job on your forest. I know, because I purchased my pine trees, but you, my friend, are making them. And I know how many trees you will need. LOTS!!!
Tom, you are really getting back into the scenery and its wonderful. Keep up the great work. Sorry for not spending more time looking ( I'm just taking a peek), but scenery is calling me on my layout.
I had a nice talk with Lou Sassi today. Really looking to meeting him and having him photo the layout. Talk to you soon.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: Erieman on April 24, 2017, 07:11:02 PM
Johnny Appleseed,aka 1504, you are doing an absolutely wonderful job on your forest. I know, because I purchased my pine trees, but you, my friend, are making them. And I know how many trees you will need. LOTS!!!
Tom, you are really getting back into the scenery and its wonderful. Keep up the great work. Sorry for not spending more time looking ( I'm just taking a peek), but scenery is calling me on my layout.
I had a nice talk with Lou Sassi today. Really looking to meeting him and having him photo the layout. Talk to you soon.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
Thank you for the very kind words on the A&S RR. As you said, I've been very busy as we both have.
There just doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day anymore.
I've been following your progress as well but haven't posted to your thread in a while - but I will.
I think doing scenery is the most fun for me as I seem to be able to capture the Florida Rural Landscape. I should after living here for 70 years. 8) 8) :P
Tom ;D ;D
Today I did a little more on the layout. My Babe and I had many many errands to run today and I didn't get out here until after 2 PM. My plans were to start this morning at 7 AM. but got waylaid.
I decided since I'm getting close to the Tahope River the banks needed to be finished. I did a little on the banks sometime last year.
Here is the little area I did then.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181259.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181259.jpeg)
Now I the time to finish.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181233.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181233.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181246.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181246.jpeg)
The product I'm using is Fusion Fiber. I've discussed this in depth in the past so I won't waste the narrative here.
You can find it here - www.scenerymadeeasy.com (http://www.scenerymadeeasy.com)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181318.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181318.jpeg)
More in a few.
When I mixed the first batch, I added some Burnt Umber color. It fricken looks like raw hamburger meat. 8) 8) 8)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181343.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181343.jpeg)
I added Sap Green to the second batch.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181358.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-240417181358.jpeg)
After both sides dry for a few days, I'll go back and paint the banks an earth brown, something that doesn't look like meat. ;D
.....I love watching Tom's progress....
Quote from: jlgrove on April 25, 2017, 09:12:01 PM
.....I love watching Tom's progress....
Jeff,
I appreciate you following along on the adventure.
Tom ;D
Today, the Judge and I had a very nice visit from Curt Webb, PRR Modeler. We spent time running trains and generally BSing.
We pulled out the Broadway Limited and an old Pennsy I1 2-10-0 Hippo for Curt. Here Curt is at the throttle of the Hippo.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260417142533.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260417142533.jpeg)
The Judge is pulling the Broadway Limited in behind the station.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260417142551.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260417142551.jpeg)
More in a few.
Here we have the Pennsy 2-10-0 pulling the billboard reefers across the Suwannee River Basin bascule bridge and through the rural area and new pine forest.
[/color]
Tom,
Very cool video indeed! Nice to see your layout come alive with visitors running trains and everyone BS'in. ha. Have fun ya'll. Thanx Thom...
Thank you Tom for the invite. I really enjoyed the friendship of you and the judge. I didn't think it was possible but your layout is even more impressive in person. To top it off Tom and the Judge put together the Broadway Limited and a I1sa motive powered freight drag. How awesome is that on a ACL themed layout. Also, thank you for the lunch. Thank you again for the great time today
Quote from: tct855 on April 26, 2017, 02:42:43 PM
Tom,
Very cool video indeed! Nice to see your layout come alive with visitors running trains and everyone BS'in. ha. Have fun ya'll. Thanx Thom...
KP1,
Thanks, we had a fun time doing it. Of course the BSing was the best part.
I've been to visit many layouts and the owners never offer to let me run trains. So, I thought I'll at least offer the throttle.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 26, 2017, 03:57:14 PM
Thank you Tom for the invite. I really enjoyed the friendship of you and the judge. I didn't think it was possible but your layout is even more impressive in person. To top it off Tom and the Judge put together the Broadway Limited and a I1sa motive powered freight drag. How awesome is that on a ACL themed layout. Also, thank you for the lunch. Thank you again for the great time today
Curt,
Thank you for coming to visit the Atlantic and Southern RR. and signing the guest book. We really enjoyed the visit and train speak. 8)
Thank you for the compliment on the layout, it has been a very intensive labor of love.
Tom ;D
Tom, your scenery and Joey's back grounds creates a sense of scale reality like I've never seen before. It looks great, but I don't know about that "Pink" clay you have there in Florida! ;D ;D
Quote from: Raymo on April 26, 2017, 06:34:25 PM
Tom, your scenery and Joey's back grounds creates a sense of scale reality like I've never seen before. It looks great, but I don't know about that "Pink" clay you have there in Florida! ;D ;D
Raymo,
Thank you very much, I getting there! Joey's photo backdrops really make the scenery look good.
As far as the pink clay, I don't see any pink clay.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260417185114.png) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-260417185114.png)
Tom ;D
Wow , the Judge has great taste, he has the exact same desk to lean his hands on while running trains as I do ;)
Quote from: Janbouli on April 26, 2017, 06:56:54 PM
Wow , the Judge has great taste, he has the exact same desk to lean his hands on while running trains as I do ;)
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D and ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Nice video. Nicely painted and weathered locomotive, but you forgot the numbers and herald/road name. ;D
Jeff
Looks like you guys had a great time! I agree with Raymo, between your excellent scenery and Joey's backdrops you've really captured the feel of rural Florida.
Tom, very interesting video. The freight cars were quite colorful and diverse. How did you get that dusty look for the loco?
Wish I could have been there yesterday when Curt visited. Given the day I had in the old cube farm boy would I have rather been there than here. :o
Seeing everything first hand is always a treat. From the stars of the show, the beautiful loco's and rolling stock, all the way down to the supporting cast, structures, vehicles, scenery, etc. It's always a pleasure!
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on April 26, 2017, 08:00:14 PM
Nice video. Nicely painted and weathered locomotive, but you forgot the numbers and herald/road name. ;D
Jeff
Jeff,
Thanks about the video. I custom painted this loco for Dick DeWitt, a huge Pennsy fan and local hobby shop owner. I painted it around 1977. Dick wanted it weathered to the point where you could barely make out the cab number and Pennsylvania on the tender, but they are on the cab and tender. This loco and paint job are older than the actual prototype when the PRR scraped them. :'(
Quote from: MAP on April 27, 2017, 05:07:32 AM
Looks like you guys had a great time! I agree with Raymo, between your excellent scenery and Joey's backdrops you've really captured the feel of rural Florida.
Mark,
Thanks very much. We did have a great time yesterday. Joey's photo backdrops sure help the scenery look natural.
I wonder if there is any more rural Florida left? We used to go down the street to gather pine cones, now we have to drive an hour or so to fine any.
Tom ;D
Quote from: MartyO on April 27, 2017, 07:33:04 AM
Tom, very interesting video. The freight cars were quite colorful and diverse. How did you get that dusty look for the loco?
Marty,
Thanks for stopping by. The reefers are a combination of old Athearn (37+ years) to one or two old MDC/Roundhouse and newer Atlas reefers (only months). They all need to be weathered.
The dusty look on the loco is all done with the air brush.
I started by spraying on Floquil Grime, followed by streaking on Floquil Grimy Black/Loco Black. The streaking is on the sides of the tender, cab sides and the smoke box.
I finished the loco by spraying a very light coat of Floquil Mud on the tender walls, trucks, wheels and drivers below the running boards. and bottom of the cab sides.
Hope this helps.
Tom ;D
Quote from: ReadingBob on April 27, 2017, 02:10:16 PM
Wish I could have been there yesterday when Curt visited. Given the day I had in the old cube farm boy would I have rather been there than here. :o
Seeing everything first hand is always a treat. From the stars of the show, the beautiful loco's and rolling stock, all the way down to the supporting cast, structures, vehicles, scenery, etc. It's always a pleasure!
Bob,
Thanks for checking in. You are welcome to come by anytime you are in the area. We did have fun yesterday. Maybe one Saturday when the SBGs meet, Curt can stop by and meet more forum members.
Tom ;D
Tom,
Just checked your last video of the billboard reefer train. Look's like you got the shopping list covered...bacon, beer, groceries, milk, water, wine, etc. The pepsi car must have been setout at the last stop.....keep em coming ! :)
Tommy
Quote from: tom.boyd.125 on April 27, 2017, 03:07:06 PM
Tom,
Just checked your last video of the billboard reefer train. Look's like you got the shopping list covered...bacon, beer, groceries, milk, water, wine, etc. The pepsi car must have been setout at the last stop.....keep em coming ! :)
Tommy
Tommy,
Thanks for stopping by. I don't think they had Diet Pepsi back in the billboard reefer days. You are correct though in having the groceries covered. I even have an International Fruit Company, Orlando, Fl. reefer. Its the Orange Squeeze Me car.
I'm working on the rural area so I have some new scenery to video.
Tom ;D
Tom, I would be very happy to get together again. Even your previous layout looks superb.
Quote from: ACL1504 on April 26, 2017, 02:31:45 PM
Here we have the Pennsy 2-10-0 pulling the billboard reefers across the Suwannee River Basin bascule bridge and through the rural area and new pine forest.
[/color]
Belpaire fireboxed loco from the Standard Railroad pulling billboard reefers!
Life is good. 8)
Hi Band O Guy:
Great video and my favorite type of train. Nothing but reefers.
Karl
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 27, 2017, 05:29:15 PM
Tom, I would be very happy to get together again. Even your previous layout looks superb.
Curt,
We will get together. I was talking with Reading Bob last night and decided to have a meet on a Saturday in the not to distance future.
I moved Throw Back Thursday to another thread.
http://modelersforum.com/layout-tours/atlantic-and-southern-rr-throw-back-thursday/msg69904/?topicseen#new (http://modelersforum.com/layout-tours/atlantic-and-southern-rr-throw-back-thursday/msg69904/?topicseen#new)
Tom ;D
Quote from: BandOGuy on April 27, 2017, 08:47:48 PM
Belpaire fireboxed loco from the Standard Railroad pulling billboard reefers!
Life is good. 8)
Chip,
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, the Belpaire fire box was the standard for the Standard Railroad of the world. Only according to the PRR, not by me an ACL guy.
Tom
Quote from: postalkarl on April 28, 2017, 08:51:18 AM
Hi Band O Guy:
Great video and my favorite type of train. Nothing but reefers.
Karl
Karl,
Thanks for stopping by. Actually, the video was done by me but we can give Chip the credit. :P :P
Tom ;D
Even when building an empire, "snitt happens". :'( :'( I don't like the road I built in the rural area and I used the wrong sand. :'(
I'm redoing it and photos will follow later this afternoon or tomorrow.
Stay tuned.
Tom ;D
Not sure I used the wrong sand but what I used was very fine granulated sand. When the matte medium dried, the sand dried a gray color and not the white it started out to be.
I redid the sand and used white play ground sand this time. It still dried a little darker but does maintains the white color more than the other.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141218.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141218.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141231.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141231.jpeg)
I needed to darken the photo a little so you could see the sand. If I made it white, the picture would be to washed out.
More in a few.
This area also has a rural water tower. It is open at the top but still obviously has the roof.
I placed the tower where I wanted and then cut out the grass so the tower would sit in the ground as if it has been there for some time.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141042.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141042.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141055.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141055.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
The tank was glued in place and bushes were planted around the supports.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141109.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141109.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141125.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141125.jpeg)
More in a few.
I think this tank has been leaking for some time. The water seems to be constantly leaking and now slime is growing on the sides and platform.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141139.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141139.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141154.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141154.jpeg)
More tomorrow evening.
Excellent work Tom. You always seem to know when to add and when to stop.
Curt,
Thank you for the compliment. It has been fun.
Today I planted 121 pine trees in the rural area. The pine tree planting is way ahead of my thread. I'll get some of the thread caught up later this afternoon or evening.
Tom ;D
ACL 1504,
Dude!, everything looks awesome! Question, with all the tree building and planting you've been doin' lately. I wonder, do you find yourself watchin' any of those lumberjack shows at all? ha. Also, how do you wash off all that sap? Because anyone who's lived in the south. Pine sap is the worst natural glue to remove from... well anything. ha. One almost has to remove a hand to remove pine sap. Any tips on sap removal T? I ask because you've been building trees for some 50 years now right. ha. Thanx Thom...
Quote from: tct855 on April 30, 2017, 03:52:48 PM
ACL 1504,
Dude!, everything looks awesome! Question, with all the tree building and planting you've been doin' lately. I wonder, do you find yourself watchin' any of those lumberjack shows at all? ha. Also, how do you wash off all that sap? Because anyone who's lived in the south. Pine sap is the worst natural glue to remove from... well anything. ha. One almost has to remove a hand to remove pine sap. Any tips on sap removal T? I ask because you've been building trees for some 50 years now right. ha. Thanx Thom...
KPI,
Thank you for the compliment on the layout. I do have an answer for the sap removal.
When playing in the forest growing up here in Central Florida and building Christmas tree forts, we got Pine say all over our hands, arms, necks and legs.
At home we used Turpentine to remove the sap. In the woods, we used sand/dirt and then gently peal it off.
You can Google for other home remedies.
Tom ;D
I'll be adding more to the thread in about 30 minutes or so.
I forgot to upload the pictures.
Tom 8)
We noticed a new concrete slab was poured at the corner of SR520 and County Road 24.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417140955.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417140955.jpeg)
I appears the County Ordinance prohibiting any structure to be built there was set aside. The local County Mayor allowed one of his in laws to build on this site. Of course, large sums of money passed under the table and to all the commissioners to allow this illegal activity.
A new corner gas station and market will occupy this new spot on the corner. By the way, it is less than 100 yards from the local fireworks factory. Freddy has already had one accident leaving him with only three fingers.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141012.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141012.jpeg)
More in a few.
The roads and inside track were taped off and the first layer of ground cover was applied.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141305.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141305.jpeg)
Three Fingered Freedy's Fireworks road was married to the asphalt road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141320.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141320.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141334.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141334.jpeg)
When the first layer was dried, I added a second and third layer of scenery material.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141402.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141402.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141348.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-290417141348.jpeg)
I let all this dry over night.
This is the location of the small rural A&S RR station.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300417175818.jpeg)
Last week I incorrectly referred to the pine tree farm as being a product of the WPA. It is in fact a product of the CCC, Civilian Conservation Corps.
The CCC added 21 more pine trees to the existing 21 pine trees.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300417175749.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300417175749.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300417175805.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-300417175805.jpeg)
A little more in a little bit. 8)
Nope, to tired. Been at it for 12 hours, time to call it a day.
I'll add more pictures tomorrow.
Thanks for following along.
Tom ;D
Beautiful work Tom. I trolly like the modified station.
Looking "Fine as Frogs Hair" Tom. Hope there weren't too many pay offs made.
Jim
Quote from: PRR Modeler on April 30, 2017, 08:00:22 PM
Beautiful work Tom. I trolly like the modified station.
Curt,
Thank you and thanks for stopping by. The station roof was a bit tricksie but I got it done. I'll show that later in the ACL station thread.
I have about 40 more pictures of the rural pine tree area to post. I'll try to get most of those on the thread later this afternoon.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on April 30, 2017, 11:07:38 PM
Looking "Fine as Frogs Hair" Tom. Hope there weren't too many pay offs made.
Jim
Jim,
I appreciate you stopping by. Yes, many many pay offs were in fact made. You know how corrupt politics can be.
Tom ;D
Hi tom:
All looks just great. Always enjoy seeing your RR layout photos.
Karl
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 01, 2017, 07:41:00 AM
Quote from: jimmillho on April 30, 2017, 11:07:38 PM
Looking "Fine as Frogs Hair" Tom. Hope there weren't too many pay offs made.
Jim
Jim,
I appreciate you stopping by. Yes, many many pay offs were in fact made. You know how corrupt politics can be.
Tom ;D
Say is ain't so Tom. :'( Oh, and don't forget the planning and building departments. >:(
Quote from: postalkarl on May 01, 2017, 09:33:42 AM
Hi tom:
All looks just great. Always enjoy seeing your RR layout photos.
Karl
Karl,
I always appreciate your kind remarks and stopping by to see the latest.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 01, 2017, 11:46:50 AM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 01, 2017, 07:41:00 AM
Quote from: jimmillho on April 30, 2017, 11:07:38 PM
Looking "Fine as Frogs Hair" Tom. Hope there weren't too many pay offs made.
Jim
Jim,
I appreciate you stopping by. Yes, many many pay offs were in fact made. You know how corrupt politics can be.
Tom ;D
Say is ain't so Tom. :'( Oh, and don't forget the planning and building departments. >:(
Greg,
Afraid so my friend. As you well know, there ain't no free lunches even when they say "Free Lunch"! >:( >:(
Tom ;D
I've been very busy the past few days working on areas of the layout. I made 254 pine trees and planted 197 of them.
While the trees were drying and growing roots, I worked on Three Fingered Freddy's Fireworks.
I cleaned up the transition area from the road to the dirt lot.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517152350.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517152350.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517152403.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517152403.jpeg)
More in a few.
Here is where I started planting pine trees on this side of the tracks.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517152423.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517152423.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517152437.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517152437.jpeg)
More in a few.
A few trees were planted between the corner gas station and the fireworks joint.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154054.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154054.jpeg)
I then moved on down the track to the white sandy road.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154110.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154110.jpeg)
More in a few.
Beautiful job Tom. The signage on the fireworks stand is impeccable.
Not much to say here.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517160030.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517160030.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517160045.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517160045.jpeg)
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 01, 2017, 03:58:48 PM
Beautiful job Tom. The signage on the fireworks stand is impeccable.
Curt,
Thank you kind sir. The Fireworks structure and signage was done by Reading Bob (Bob Butts). He does superior structure builds.
Tom ;D
More pine tree photos.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517160059.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154137.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154150.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154150.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154125.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154125.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154203.jpeg)
While the roots were taking hold on the pine trees, I moved my attention to the Tahope River area.
I wanted the foliage to come down fairly close to the water as it does in many of the rivers here in the South.
I used a few pine trees, other type foliage super trees I made. The lower bushes are larger pieces of some broken trees.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154227.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154241.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154254.jpeg)
I'll do both sides of river bank but the other side will wait until I get to the, well, the other side of the river. ;D ;D
More in a few and after a Diet Pepsi break. ???
I got the pine trees planted next to Freedy's to the sandy road. Now it's time to fill in the gap between the station and the river.
I won't go into detail on the scenery base as I said it often enough. Here are the pictures that tell the story.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154307.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154307.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154320.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154320.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154332.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154332.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154346.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154346.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154359.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154359.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154414.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154414.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154427.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-010517154427.jpeg)
Well, back to work on the layout. I'll post more updates tomorrow afternoon.
Thanks for following along and don't be afraid to ask questions. I may not have the answer but I will answer with something. ;D ;D
Oh, no. It looks like a tornado came through and took off the roof. Sorry Tom, I couldn't resist.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 01, 2017, 07:46:45 PM
Oh, no. It looks like a tornado came through and took off the roof. Sorry Tom, I couldn't resist.
No.
New fires codes.
They want everything accessible to check Slim's wiring before issuing an occupancy certificate. ;D
[size=78%] [/size]
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 01, 2017, 07:46:45 PM
Oh, no. It looks like a tornado came through and took off the roof. Sorry Tom, I couldn't resist.
Curt,
Hey, no problem. Those dang landscapers were busy planting trees and the roof construction took a back seat. ;D ;D ;D
Tom 8)
Quote from: BandOGuy on May 01, 2017, 08:26:08 PM
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 01, 2017, 07:46:45 PM
Oh, no. It looks like a tornado came through and took off the roof. Sorry Tom, I couldn't resist.
No.
New fires codes.
They want everything accessible to check Slim's wiring before issuing an occupancy certificate. ;D
Chip,
No worries mate, there will be no interior lighting on this one. There may be an outside pole light though.
Tom ;D
HI Tom:
Looks great. Beautiful straight run to show off your favorite trains.
karl
Karl,
Thanks buddy, yes, I now have new scenery to run trains through. Hmmm, maybe a new video is in the future.
Tom ;D
Tom,
As usual, wonderful scenery. I love it when there are trees between the tracks and the viewer, it gives a real prototype feel to see the trains through the trees. Looking forward to some photos and maybe some video from this area.
That is one fast growing forest..... 8)
Quote from: jerryrbeach on May 02, 2017, 08:57:48 AM
Tom,
As usual, wonderful scenery. I love it when there are trees between the tracks and the viewer, it gives a real prototype feel to see the trains through the trees. Looking forward to some photos and maybe some video from this area.
Jerry,
Thanks very much, I appreciate you following along.
I made the forest think in the front just for photos and videos, a different look is always good.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 02, 2017, 10:20:24 AM
That is one fast growing forest..... 8)
Greg,
I appreciate you checking in on the thread. Just so you know, Johnny Appleseed has nothing on me!
Tom ;D
Well, I couldn't stand it! Jimmy will be proud!
I just had to burn a few trees. After all what's a forest without a lighting strike or a little arson here and there.
I started by drawing off an area near the Tahope River. I covered the area with white glue and then added some Woodland Scenics Burnt Earth. When it dried, I sprayed matte medium on the area and added some fine ballast cinders.
I outlined the burn area with WS mixed earth.
The next day when the area was dry, I covered the ground cover with a very liberal dose of Creosote Black A&I from Hunterline.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517124831.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517124831.jpeg)
After the burn patch was finished, I added the rest of the ground cover around the burn area.
I then stripped a few trees of branches and glued them in place. The trees were already painted with Rust-Oleum Hammered Dark Bronze.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517124844.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517124844.jpeg)
continued in a few. The Fire Department is here and asking who set the forest fire. I'm going to play Sgt. Shultz,
"I know nothing".
When I made the pine trees, I used some Scenic Express brown Silfor on the side facing the burn area. The rest of the tree was covered with the summer green silfor.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517124858.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517124858.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517124915.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517124915.jpeg)
More in a few.
All the branches I stripped off the tree were crushed together and spread around the burn area.
Matte medium was added to hold it all in place.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517124929.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517124929.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517124943.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517130008.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517130008.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517130023.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517130023.jpeg)
Track side view.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517130036.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-020517130036.jpeg)
Little details Tom. That whole side is really taking shape!! Onward my friend.
Bill
Tom...
Great trees.
thanx
Bob
Tom,
I like the burnt grass fire scene with the scorched trees. very cool. Did you see these pics done with fiber optics? FYI Thanx Thom...
Very ingenious Tom.
Hi Tom:
Well done as always.
Karl
Quote from: PennsyJ1 on May 02, 2017, 03:38:58 PM
Little details Tom. That whole side is really taking shape!! Onward my friend.
Bill
Bill,
Yes, it's the little details that count. Thanks for stopping by and for the compliment. Looking forward to you and Kris seeing it in person.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on May 02, 2017, 03:41:09 PM
Tom...
Great trees.
thanx
Bob
Bob,
Thank you, much appreciated. I made over two hundred and will make more later in the year.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on May 02, 2017, 04:12:28 PM
Tom,
I like the burnt grass fire scene with the scorched trees. very cool. Did you see these pics done with fiber optics? FYI Thanx Thom...
Thom,
That is a neat scene (fiber optics) but to me it doesn't look natural. And, thank you for the kind words.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 02, 2017, 05:03:02 PM
Very ingenious Tom.
Curt,
As always, I appreciate your kind remarks and support.
Tom ;D
Quote from: postalkarl on May 03, 2017, 07:44:26 AM
Hi Tom:
Well done as always.
Karl
Karl,
Thank you kind sir, very much appreciated.
Tom ;D
I wanted to have some wood post wire/barbed wire fences along the highway. My wife found these toothpicks at Target. I'm not sure what see paid for them but there are 250 in the little plastic jar.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074254.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074254.jpeg)
I counted out 50 or so and soaked them in Hunterline's Medium Brown weathering mix. I then placed them on a paper towel to dry.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074320.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074320.jpeg)
More in a few.
The Florida Farm Bureau states the fence posts can be any where from 4 to 6 feet in height. They also state that if you are fencing in horses, DON'T use the barbed wire. DUH, that's a no brainer. Oh wait, it is government!
Anyway, I decided on a 4' high fence since I don't have a horse! I thought the 4' was to short so I went with an HO scale 5' fence. I also was going to push the posts in the ground cover and the pink foam. I cut the posts to measure about 3/4" in height.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074308.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074308.jpeg)
I spaced the fence posts every 8 HO scale feet. I used a pointed tool to start the hole. Once the hole was punched, the posts fit very snug in the scenery and foam.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074336.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074336.jpeg)
Continued in a few.
I'm waiting on some Berkshire Junction E Z Line for the wire.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074350.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074350.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074405.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074405.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074420.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074420.jpeg)
I used a product by Great Planes. It is a model striping tape and comes in various widths. I used the 1/16" (1.6MM) and striped the road way.
I used white for the road edges and yellow for the center line.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074533.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074533.jpeg)
More in a few.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074521.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074521.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074450.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074450.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074505.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074505.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074546.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074546.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074436.jpeg)
ACL light mountain 4-8-2, #1401 pulling a local freight through the pine forest.
[/color]
Very cool Tom. I can't wait to see the finished scene. Did you by chance do a posting on the FOS scale yard office #2? I looked in the forum kit building threads and your closed thread without success. I have it on order and figured to read up on it while waiting.p
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 03, 2017, 07:20:56 PM
Very cool Tom. I can't wait to see the finished scene. Did you by chance do a posting on the FOS scale yard office #2? I looked in the forum kit building threads and your closed thread without success. I have it on order and figured to read up on it while waiting.p
Curt,
Thank you, much appreciated.
Reading Bob built the FOS Yard Office #2 and I don't think he did a thread, if so, I didn't find it either.
I don't have any closed threads so if you found one let me know what it is.
Tom ;D
Tom,
Your video of your new work is very nice. I like how you have varied the trees from dead ones, to live ones, to burnt ones etc.. It makes the scene look like the work of mother nature.
The trees came out nicely. Your road striping reminds me I need to do that before adding the ground cover around it. Thanks! ;D
Jeff
Tom,
I just absolutely love the latest, hell all the videos. I talked to George again today. He mentioned again if I've been following your thread here. So..... you know now he's been following it in silence too. ha.
Don't worry, he tells me your work is crap! ha. Sorry forgive me. He loves the work you're doing and the videos. Which brings me to my post here. While watching this latest video I really wanted to watch critic your work on the fabulous engines (sorry trade habit).
I noticed I was getting anxious because I couldn't clearly see the engine running through all the damn trees! ha. doink! Then it hit me! What's blocking my view is all the trees you've been making! Doink, doink! All those wonderful trees in the way, is just like the real thing!
Don't change a thing! I love it, mission accomplished sir! Keep planting more trees-Johnny Appleseed. Thanx Thom... KP out!
Hi Tom
I stopped by and got caught up on you build thread, tonight. The layout is really looking good. I didn't realize all those brush fires we have been hearing about in Florida affected your layout. I'm sure glad the fireman were able to get it out before it caused to much damage. Great work my friend!
Top notch Tom , you're working fast while keeping quality of work 200%. Love the striping , but it's got me confused because I thought yellow was a modern era thing. It's probably been discussed here somewhere , but when was it changed to yellow striping in the center from white?
I think I remember the topic of striping coming up in the past,,,, didn't the yellow stripe start in the 1960s and become standard in the 1970s? I could be wrong, but I seem to remember being told that in the 1950s, the road striping was white
Your scenes are really coming together nicely Tom. Love the burned tree scene! Reminds me of when I used to drive from Tampa to Palm Bay to visit my parents. 95 had lots of brush fires and the smoke was so dense at times they closed sections of it! Your street scenes are great! I like the use of the toothpicks for fence posts.
Quote from: sdrees on May 03, 2017, 08:08:02 PM
Tom,
Your video of your new work is very nice. I like how you have varied the trees from dead ones, to live ones, to burnt ones etc.. It makes the scene look like the work of mother nature.
Steve,
Thank you very much. I was a lot of fun in making the different trees. Small area burned spaces like this one are very common in Florida.
Tom ;D
Here's a link to the "standards" for traffic signals, striping, etc. Just glancing thru it, it's interesting that the red stop sign and the yield sign started in the 1954 edition. https://ceprofs.civil.tamu.edu/ghawkins/MUTCD-History.htm (https://ceprofs.civil.tamu.edu/ghawkins/MUTCD-History.htm) This link shows there was much apparently argument over using yellow at all in 1948, and it looks like there was a lot of variation state to state. https://ceprofs.civil.tamu.edu/ghawkins/MUTCD-History_files/MUTCDmarkingcolorevolution.pdf
Jeff
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on May 03, 2017, 09:18:29 PM
The trees came out nicely. Your road striping reminds me I need to do that before adding the ground cover around it. Thanks! ;D
Jeff
Jeff,
Thanks, very much appreciated. I did the striping after the ground cover. That way I didn't have to worry about the scenery session ruining the striping.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on May 03, 2017, 09:36:50 PM
Tom,
I just absolutely love the latest, hell all the videos. I talked to George again today. He mentioned again if I've been following your thread here. So..... you know now he's been following it in silence too. ha.
Don't worry, he tells me your work is crap! ha. Sorry forgive me. He loves the work you're doing and the videos. Which brings me to my post here. While watching this latest video I really wanted to watch critic your work on the fabulous engines (sorry trade habit).
I noticed I was getting anxious because I couldn't clearly see the engine running through all the damn trees! ha. doink! Then it hit me! What's blocking my view is all the trees you've been making! Doink, doink! All those wonderful trees in the way, is just like the real thing!
Don't change a thing! I love it, mission accomplished sir! Keep planting more trees-Johnny Appleseed. Thanx Thom... KP out!
Thom,
Thank you very much for checking in. It's exciting to know George is following along. The trees were fun while I was making them but I need to make many more. Just thinking about making more trees isn't fun.
Ref. the loco. I'll get you some still shots so you can take your best shot. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Tom ;D
Quote from: S&S RR on May 03, 2017, 09:40:54 PM
Hi Tom
I stopped by and got caught up on you build thread, tonight. The layout is really looking good. I didn't realize all those brush fires we have been hearing about in Florida affected your layout. I'm sure glad the fireman were able to get it out before it caused to much damage. Great work my friend!
John,
Thank you for the compliment. The trees really add to the rural look of the scene. Small burn spots like this in the piney woods is natural in Florida. Lightning strikes and a few trees are scorched. Funny thing is that they burn out quickly like my scene.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on May 04, 2017, 03:24:45 AM
Top notch Tom , you're working fast while keeping quality of work 200%. Love the striping , but it's got me confused because I thought yellow was a modern era thing. It's probably been discussed here somewhere , but when was it changed to yellow striping in the center from white?
Jan,
Thank you, much appreciated. Good eye on the yellow striping. The yellow center line started here in Florida around the early 70's. I didn't have enough of the white to do all the center lines in the scene. When the new white arrives, the yellow will be replaced.
My layout time frame is from around 1949 to 1955. So the white will work, well, it will when I get more.
Tom ;D
Quote from: rpdylan on May 04, 2017, 05:31:15 AM
I think I remember the topic of striping coming up in the past,,,, didn't the yellow stripe start in the 1960s and become standard in the 1970s? I could be wrong, but I seem to remember being told that in the 1950s, the road striping was white
Bob,
You are correct as well on the yellow. I ran out of the white so the yellow filed in until I get more of the white.
I appreciate you following along.
At this point in the build the striping isn't permanent. When the yellow is replaced with the white, I'll weather the road and spray a flat finish on it all.
Tom ;D
Quote from: MAP on May 04, 2017, 07:08:24 AM
Your scenes are really coming together nicely Tom. Love the burned tree scene! Reminds me of when I used to drive from Tampa to Palm Bay to visit my parents. 95 had lots of brush fires and the smoke was so dense at times they closed sections of it! Your street scenes are great! I like the use of the toothpicks for fence posts.
Mark,
Thanks very much. I appreciate you following along on the build. Florida has these tree and brush fires all up and down the I-95, I-4, I-75 and the Florida Turnpike corridor all year round. What good is driving in Florida if one can't smell and choke on the brush fire smoke. 8) 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: Zephyrus52246 on May 04, 2017, 07:46:09 AM
Here's a link to the "standards" for traffic signals, striping, etc. Just glancing thru it, it's interesting that the red stop sign and the yield sign started in the 1954 edition. https://ceprofs.civil.tamu.edu/ghawkins/MUTCD-History.htm (https://ceprofs.civil.tamu.edu/ghawkins/MUTCD-History.htm) This link shows there was much apparently argument over using yellow at all in 1948, and it looks like there was a lot of variation state to state. https://ceprofs.civil.tamu.edu/ghawkins/MUTCD-History_files/MUTCDmarkingcolorevolution.pdf (https://ceprofs.civil.tamu.edu/ghawkins/MUTCD-History_files/MUTCDmarkingcolorevolution.pdf)
Jeff
Jeff,
Thanks for the links. We still have a few old rural roads that have sections of white center lines. I don't know why they don't just use the yellow over the white. It is certainly odd to see the yellow up to the white and then continue after the white.
Tom ;D
Interesting conversations on the white vs. yellow striping. I have enough of the white to do one section of roadway.
I'll change the yellow to white later this afternoon so everyone can see the difference.
Tom and fire.....kind of like spaghetti and meatballs.....they just go together. ;D ;D ;D
Great work Tom..... 8)
Hi Tom - Always enjoy seeing your progress and usually get some good tips such as the road stripping. Jim
Tom...
The trees are great and the video "run through" is really cool.
thanx
Bob
Tom,
I am taking a quick break from my layout project to let you know that you are doing a marvelous job with your scenery. It really looks like the South. I really likes the burned tree area. Just Marvelous, my friend !!! Keep up the great work. More photos and videos please.
Frank / Erieman
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 04, 2017, 09:00:40 AM
Tom and fire.....kind of like spaghetti and meatballs.....they just go together. ;D ;D ;D
Great work Tom..... 8)
Greg,
Thank you. I told you I would only burn a few trees.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jrmueller on May 04, 2017, 10:01:47 AM
Hi Tom - Always enjoy seeing your progress and usually get some good tips such as the road stripping. Jim
Jim,
I always appreciate you stopping by with your kind compliments. I'm happy you are getting some thing from the thread as well.
Tom ;D
Quote from: bparrish on May 04, 2017, 11:36:20 AM
Tom...
The trees are great and the video "run through" is really cool.
thanx
Bob
Bob,
Thanks for the very kind words of support. The tree making was tedious but I do agree, they look good.
More videos this afternoon.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Erieman on May 04, 2017, 12:01:42 PM
Tom,
I am taking a quick break from my layout project to let you know that you are doing a marvelous job with your scenery. It really looks like the South. I really likes the burned tree area. Just Marvelous, my friend !!! Keep up the great work. More photos and videos please.
Frank / Erieman
Frank,
I know you are a very busy man so I really appreciate you taking your valuable time checking in on my thread.
I also very much appreciate the kind compliment on the layout. You know I had to burn some trees to keep my reputation in tact.
More pictures and videos this afternoon or early evening.
Tom ;D
I haven't learned how to edit/combine my videos yet so ya'll get the benefit of three videos.
Southern E7A units crossing the Tahope River and entering the pine forest.
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Southern E7A units in the pine forest.
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Southern E7A units leaving pine forest.
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ACL 1504,
Excellent videos again sir! Those trees do make the scene. Question (only) have you thought about trying to get a lower from the ground level video shot like you were at the 5' level from a vehicle or a tripod standing train geek on the side of the tracks. (even lower then you have so far) Don't know with all the trees if that's even possible. I don't have trees really in my way here when I shoot. ha. Just curious Mr. Spielberg. ha. KP-out...
Great videos Tom. I think I saw sand patches in the ground cover. That is a great feature for Southern woods. Excellent attention to detail to make your scenery second to none.
Very nice Tom! Scenery looks great.
Hal
Hi Tom:
Thanks for another great video.
Karl
Tom, your videos reminded me of driving down the InterState through Florida. The trees are will made and placed to break up the scene - yet provide enough density to indicate a forest. All you need to do is figure out how to make and add all those succulents to the fields.
I think it would be great if you could try what Tom suggested and take the video a little lower thru the trees.
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 03, 2017, 07:31:12 PM
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 03, 2017, 07:20:56 PM
Very cool Tom. I can't wait to see the finished scene. Did you by chance do a posting on the FOS scale yard office #2? I looked in the forum kit building threads and your closed thread without success. I have it on order and figured to read up on it while waiting.p
Curt,
Thank you, much appreciated.
Reading Bob built the FOS Yard Office #2 and I don't think he did a thread, if so, I didn't find it either.
I don't have any closed threads so if you found one let me know what it is.
Tom ;D
I don't think I did a thread on that build. Every now and then I sneak one in without doing a thread. ::) That was a fun little kit and I have another one waiting in the stash to build for myself someday. I really liked the look and dimensions of the structure.
Quote from: tct855 on May 04, 2017, 06:50:30 PM
ACL 1504,
Excellent videos again sir! Those trees do make the scene. Question (only) have you thought about trying to get a lower from the ground level video shot like you were at the 5' level from a vehicle or a tripod standing train geek on the side of the tracks. (even lower then you have so far) Don't know with all the trees if that's even possible. I don't have trees really in my way here when I shoot. ha. Just curious Mr. Spielberg. ha. KP-out...
Listen Cecil, This is a Grade B movie house. Take your complaint to Warner Brothers. 8) 8)
However, I will try a track side shot for a future video.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 04, 2017, 07:21:51 PM
Great videos Tom. I think I saw sand patches in the ground cover. That is a great feature for Southern woods. Excellent attention to detail to make your scenery second to none.
Curt,
Thank you for the very kind compliment on the piney woods scenery. Yes, those are white sand patches, good eye. I'm letting them grow on me a little but I think a little more white will work better.
You are correct being a Floridian, in that the white sand patches in the pines is natural.
Tom ;D
Quote from: halrey on May 04, 2017, 07:26:33 PM
Very nice Tom! Scenery looks great.
Hal
Hal,
Thank you, very much appreciated. Your Turbo Tree Maker sure came in handy. And, it saved a whole lot of time in making the pine trees.
Great invention. ;) ;)
Tom ;D
Quote from: MartyO on May 05, 2017, 12:11:25 PM
Tom, your videos reminded me of driving down the InterState through Florida. The trees are will made and placed to break up the scene - yet provide enough density to indicate a forest. All you need to do is figure out how to make and add all those succulents to the fields.
Marty,
Your kind words are appreciated. I can't tell you how much time I've spent driving the roads and looking at pine trees.
I'm working on some decent looking under brush. I have some of the Palmetto Palm bushes and palm trees. I got them from Hart of the South Models.
http://www.hartofthesouth.com/ (http://www.hartofthesouth.com/)
I think they are just a little out of scale, not the palms, but the Palmetto bushes.
More on this in the future.
Tom ;D
Quote from: postalkarl on May 05, 2017, 07:38:31 AM
Hi Tom:
Thanks for another great video.
Karl
Karl,
You are welcome and thanks for watching.
Tom ;D
Tom, I really like the look you have created. I, for one, am in favor of a lot of trees on the layout and I like to have my structures buried in the trees. Great job. Thanks for the video. Phil
Quote from: sdrees on May 05, 2017, 12:38:55 PM
I think it would be great if you could try what Tom suggested and take the video a little lower thru the trees.
Steve,
I'm going to try a lower level video as Cecil B. suggested. In the mean time ya'll will have to suffer through a couple more of my Grade B videos. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
I apprecaite you taking the time to watch.
Tom ;D
Quote from: KCS Trains on May 05, 2017, 03:27:51 PM
Tom, I really like the look you have created. I, for one, am in favor of a lot of trees on the layout and I like to have my structures buried in the trees. Great job. Thanks for the video. Phil
Phil,
Thank you very much, I appreciate your stopping by and posting a comment on the trees. I do plan on adding more trees but to be honest, I did get a little burned out making these 225+ trees.
Tom ;D
As I mentioned a few days ago, I had enough of the white striping to do one road section. I'm waiting on more and should have it by Monday.
Here is the road with the white center line.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050517151329.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050517151329.jpeg)
Also, I've removed all the red stop signs and am in the process of installing the early 50's yellow stop sign with the black "STOP".
More in a few.
I wasn't pleased with how the road came out crossing the tracks in the rural area. So, I removed the sand and will install crossing planks instead.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050517151345.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050517151345.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050517151358.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050517151358.jpeg)
Illinois Central, City of Miami, leaving pine forest.
[/color]
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 05, 2017, 03:38:04 PM
I wasn't pleased with how the road came out crossing the tracks in the rural area. So, I removed the sand and will install crossing planks instead.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050517151345.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050517151345.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050517151358.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-050517151358.jpeg)
ACL 1504,
Growing up down south, I can't remember crossings (including rural ones) were simple sand. Is your sand crossing representing sand or gravel? I suspect gravel. I remember clay dirt, gravel, wood planks, rubber, asphalt, concrete, and in some really rural areas towards louisiana chet. Sand? What say you master? Cecil B...
Thom,
As a small boy, I've seen plenty of sand crossing. The sand was just poured over the tracks. The wheels of the loco created their own flange way.
I'm going to replace the sand with HO scale 4X6's.
Tom ;D
Great sound in the video , I thought I even heard birds chirping.
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 05, 2017, 05:32:45 PM
Thom,
As a small boy, I've seen plenty of sand crossing. The sand was just poured over the tracks. The wheels of the loco created their own flange way.
I'm going to replace the sand with HO scale 4X6's.
Tom ;D
T~,
Boy, I sure lead a sheltered life. Either that or my Dad was right. I'm a idiot! ha. Thanks for the continued edgamacation smokey! Cecil B. out...
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 05, 2017, 03:56:52 PM
Illinois Central, City of Miami, leaving pine forest.
[/color]
Outstanding Tom ! Really like all the work you are doing on your layout.
Very nicely done. Neat and tidy and looking real nice.
Congratulations on the progress so far. You should be very pleased and satisfied.
David
Quote from: Janbouli on May 05, 2017, 05:50:51 PM
Great sound in the video , I thought I even heard birds chirping.
Jan,
Thank you, much appreciated. If I ever learn the editing function, I'll have some birds chirping. I was thinking of an owl hooting also.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on May 05, 2017, 11:15:44 PM
Quote from: ACL1504 on May 05, 2017, 05:32:45 PM
Thom,
As a small boy, I've seen plenty of sand crossing. The sand was just poured over the tracks. The wheels of the loco created their own flange way.
I'm going to replace the sand with HO scale 4X6's.
Tom ;D
T~,
Boy, I sure lead a sheltered life. Either that or my Dad was right. I'm a idiot! ha. Thanks for the continued edgamacation smokey! Cecil B. out...
Thom,
The sand crossings I've seen were on rural industrial spurs, so I tried mine. We all know how this one turned out.
The others I saw were in the BFE Alachua County, Home of the Gators. It was, and this makes sense, on a spur leading to a borrow pit where they dug the white sand. This was in Hawthorne, Fl. Of all days, I had no camera.
There was one here at the old SAC, Strategic Air Command, at Pine Castle Air Base, Now Orlando International Airport.
Bob Snow, owner of Church Street Station, had his old Pullman and Observation cars on the spur. Here is the observation car after it sat on the siding in downtown Orlando for 18 years.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060517155614.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060517155614.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060517160421.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060517160421.jpeg)
Quote from: bagman on May 06, 2017, 12:55:44 AM
Outstanding Tom ! Really like all the work you are doing on your layout.
Very nicely done. Neat and tidy and looking real nice.
Congratulations on the progress so far. You should be very pleased and satisfied.
David
David,
I hope you are feeling better and the recovery is going well.
Thank you very much for the kind compliment on the layout scenery. I try to make it look as natural as I can get it. It has been very satisfying and I'm also pleased with the results.
Tom ;D
This morning I finished redoing the rural crossing. I used HO scale 4X6 lumber for the planks.
I stained them with Cordovan Brown Hunterline weathering mix.
After they were installed and the glue dried, I back filled the area with white sand.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060517154118.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060517154118.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060517154131.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-060517154131.jpeg)
I like the timber crossings. I don't think many Division Superintendents would have liked requiring named passenger trains running at high speeds to 'make their own flangeways'.
Now that's!, a crossing! Nice work Mr. Langford. Nice work indeed. Cecil B. likee!
Nice job Tom.
Really proceeding nicely. You've truly captured the feeling of the area.
John
Quote from: jbvb on May 06, 2017, 05:20:55 PM
I like the timber crossings. I don't think many Division Superintendents would have liked requiring named passenger trains running at high speeds to 'make their own flangeways'.
James,
Thank you very much. It does look better and you are correct about the DS's concern.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on May 06, 2017, 08:00:37 PM
Now that's!, a crossing! Nice work Mr. Langford. Nice work indeed. Cecil B. likee!
Cecil,
This crossing is certainly better and looks more natural than the natural sand crossing. To be honest, the Judge said the crossing should be planked in the first place.
I figured he was a Judge and didn't know much! Now, who looks a bit red faced? At least I can laugh at myself.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 06, 2017, 10:18:17 PM
Nice job Tom.
Curt,
Thank you kind sir. Much appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Cuse on May 07, 2017, 08:37:10 AM
Really proceeding nicely. You've truly captured the feeling of the area.
John
John,
Thank you for the very kind compliment. When in the area come by and see it.
Tom ;D
My Berkshire Junction wire arrived today. I used it to string the fence posts. I must say I was greatly disappointed in how it looked. I strung one set of fence posts and when finished I could barely see the wire. I removed it all and used just plain sewing thread.
I used a buff colored thread and strung the fence posts.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182812.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182812.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182827.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182827.jpeg)
More in a few.
I stained the thread with Hunterline Weathering Mix, Medium Brown.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517184056.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517184056.jpeg)
When all the fence posts had wire, I started to add more ground shrubs and bushes along the fence line. A few trees were also planted.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182854.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182854.jpeg)
More in a few.
The next several pictures are just to show you the progress of the areas.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182841.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182841.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182921.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182921.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182934.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182934.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182948.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517182948.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517183000.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517183013.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517183026.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517183026.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517183042.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517183042.jpeg)
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517183055.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517183055.jpeg)
Gorgeous Tom. If you don't mind I have a couple of questions. First, what did you use to glue the thread in place? Did the coloring you used cause stretching of the thread? Lastly is the pond area going to remain dry, or are you going to make another water feature? Sorry for all the questions.
Again beautiful scenery Tom, love all the trees and shrubbery. As for the wire , in N-scale I don't even use any wire , it wouldn't be visible in real life and the mind just thinks it's there, in H0 it would hardly be visible so maybe the thinner wire is more prototypical. I guess it's up to you what you want , really visible wire or let the mind do a bit of the job.
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 08, 2017, 07:35:17 PM
Gorgeous Tom. If you don't mind I have a couple of questions. First, what did you use to glue the thread in place? Did the coloring you used cause stretching of the thread? Lastly is the pond area going to remain dry, or are you going to make another water feature? Sorry for all the questions.
Curt,
Thank you. I use ACC, super glue to tack the thread to the end post. I then tacked every fifth post. The thread sagged a little when the A&I was applied but tightened when it dried.
The pond will have some dirty water/resin and weeds.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on May 09, 2017, 03:26:43 AM
Again beautiful scenery Tom, love all the trees and shrubbery. As for the wire , in N-scale I don't even use any wire , it wouldn't be visible in real life and the mind just thinks it's there, in H0 it would hardly be visible so maybe the thinner wire is more prototypical. I guess it's up to you what you want , really visible wire or let the mind do a bit of the job.
Jan,
Thank you. I know the Berkshire Junction is typically used for the wire but I didn't like the look or the color. The BJ wire was more of a red than the brown on the package stated. The thread look was more pleasing to my eye and I could control the size and color with the thread.
Here is how the thread looked after the A&I was applied to a couple of sections between the posts. It sort of looked like barbed wire when the A&I stained the fuzz on the thread. However, this effect went away as it dried.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517184112.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-080517184112.jpeg)
Tom ;D
I just noticed the detail of the fence posts in the close ups...the notches must be very helpful in keeping the "wire" at consistent spacing. What is the source of the posts?
(don't tell me you agonizingly turned them each on a lathe :o )
John
Quote from: Cuse on May 09, 2017, 06:55:14 AM
I just noticed the detail of the fence posts in the close ups...the notches must be very helpful in keeping the "wire" at consistent spacing. What is the source of the posts?
(don't tell me you agonizingly turned them each on a lathe :o )
John
I'm not sure but I think I had a package of those 'fence posts' in my hand at the kitchen store in Mt. Dora this weekend. They're fancy toothpicks for hor d'ourves. :D :D :D I was looking at them wondering what I could use them for. ;D ;D ;D
Tom,
The hordes arriving in a couple of months will certainly be impressed with the progress the A&S Chief Superintendent has made. You have captured the S. East quite effectively with your choice of scenes and scenery. Once again, very nice.
Bob
Quote from: Cuse on May 09, 2017, 06:55:14 AM
I just noticed the detail of the fence posts in the close ups...the notches must be very helpful in keeping the "wire" at consistent spacing. What is the source of the posts?
(don't tell me you agonizingly turned them each on a lathe :o )
John
John,
Up close you can see the detail of the toothpicks. On the layout not so much. No, I didn't turn them on a lathe but I did get the idea from Cliff Powers.
www.magnoliaroute.com (http://www.magnoliaroute.com)
I got the toothpicks at Super Target. Go back to page 187 and you can get the story.
Tom ;D
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074254.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-030517074254.jpeg)
Quote from: ReadingBob on May 09, 2017, 07:57:25 AM
I'm not sure but I think I had a package of those 'fence posts' in my hand at the kitchen store in Mt. Dora this weekend. They're fancy toothpicks for hor d'ourves. :D :D :D I was looking at them wondering what I could use them for. ;D ;D ;D
Bob,
I guess they are for hor d'ourves but they are good for fence posts also. ;D ;D ;D My Babe picked them up for me at Super Target.
Tom ;D
Quote from: RWL on May 09, 2017, 10:06:21 AM
Tom,
The hordes arriving in a couple of months will certainly be impressed with the progress the A&S Chief Superintendent has made. You have captured the S. East quite effectively with your choice of scenes and scenery. Once again, very nice.
Bob
Bob,
Thanks very much for the kind comments on the scenery. By the way, welcome back. July 30 is getting close for sure and I hope a few do show up. Not a few hordes but a few peeps.
Tom ;D
I look forward to seeing your posts both layout and forum. Any chance you can come to VA for a couple of weeks to kickstart my layout? Jim
That's too bad the fuzz doesn't show so well when dried Tom , it does have the barbed wire look, and yes I can see that thread would be easy to color it soaks up the paint or whatever you use.
I have been searching Dutch bargain stores for the toothpicks , not found yet , but I will ;)
Quote from: jrmueller on May 09, 2017, 10:36:34 AM
I look forward to seeing your posts both layout and forum. Any chance you can come to VA for a couple of weeks to kickstart my layout? Jim
Jim,
Thank you for the kind compliment. I look forward to seeing what everyone is doing as well.
A two week vacation in VA would be wonderful. I wish it could happen.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Janbouli on May 09, 2017, 01:53:03 PM
That's too bad the fuzz doesn't show so well when dried Tom , it does have the barbed wire look, and yes I can see that thread would be easy to color it soaks up the paint or whatever you use.
I have been searching Dutch bargain stores for the toothpicks , not found yet , but I will ;)
Jan,
I was very disappointed when the stain dried and I lost that little barbwire look.
I have plenty of these toothpicks, I'll be happy to send you some. I have 200+ I'm not going to use for now and I can always get more here.
Tom ;D
Today I poured the resin in the small pond. I used Woodland Scenics Deep Pour, Murky Water.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090517145317.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090517145317.jpeg)
I mixed it per the instructions, stirred and poured. The picture below was taken 6 hours after the pour. The instructions state the resin will be completely dry in 24 hours. That will be 7 AM tomorrow morning.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090517145720.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090517145720.jpeg)
When dry, I'll add more weeds and bushes around the pond.
Looks good Tom.
Hi Tom,
I like your photo's of your layout that you took at ground level looking through the trees. Your scenery is really looking very good.
Were you happy with the Woodland Scenics Deep Pour Water. Did it creep up the banks of the pond when it dried?
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 09, 2017, 04:13:28 PM
Looks good Tom.
Curt,
Much appreciated, thank you!
Tom ;D
Quote from: sdrees on May 09, 2017, 04:16:21 PM
Hi Tom,
I like your photo's of your layout that you took at ground level looking through the trees. Your scenery is really looking very good.
Were you happy with the Woodland Scenics Deep Pour Water. Did it creep up the banks of the pond when it dried?
Steve,
Thank you for the kind words. I'm going to take more ground level photos as I move along. Videos also.
I was very pleased with how the Deep Pour Water worked. It was easy to mix and pour. Yes, it did creep up a bit but I blame myself for that. I poured to much in the pond and when it leveled off it was to high. I waited for it to set, about 6 hours and then I sprinkled some ground foam around the edges. The ground material settled in and you can see it doesn't look half bad.
(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090517145720.jpeg) (http://modelersforum.com/gallery/24-090517145720.jpeg)
I don't think it would have crept if I kept the level lower and not up to the scenery. I'll be pouring the Tahope River in a couple of weeks so I'll control the pour better.
Tom ;D
Beautiful work as usual Tom! The pond looks pretty scummy :o and the fence is great. Toothpicks.....who knew!!?? Thanks again for the photo coverage of your progress.
Tom,
Wonderful little scene, all the scenery elements compliment each other so well, looks very natural. You have a great eye and the ability to translate it into beautiful scenery. I think you raise the bar for the rest of us with every photo you post!
Great looking scene Tom.
I have been using those fancy toothpicks to apply glue and paint for a long time, ever since I fount them in the Dollar Store. I guess I need more to try them as fence posts.
Jim
Tom,
I thank you for the welcome, but I am not back yet. I will not be around for the gala in Orlando, I return a week before Altoona, hopefully I will see you there. Again, the modeling community will be very impressed with what you have accomplished, have a successful showing.
Bob
Tom, just so you know.....I am continuously mesmerized by your fine, delicate and realistic modeling. You Sir must have a PHD in modeling.
Louisville and Nashville Southland at rural crossing in Tahope County, Fl.
[/color]
L&N Southland at track speed.
[/color]
L&N Southland passing rural station and water tower.
[/color]
Track speed.....when the train clears the bridge it ought to high balling at Greg Speed thru the Florida countryside. ;D ;D ;D
Amazing Tom. The videos all look like real life.
Wow...giving those a long look reveals just how effective those backdrops are... Great modeling!
John
KP II
Those are some really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really nice passenger cars! You have some nice ACL equipment. Oh, and the new low angle videos are the cat's meow! ;D KP-out!
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 10, 2017, 04:28:58 PM
Amazing Tom. The videos all look like real life.
I thought it was real..........
Jim
Quote from: MAP on May 10, 2017, 05:14:38 AM
Beautiful work as usual Tom! The pond looks pretty scummy :o and the fence is great. Toothpicks.....who knew!!?? Thanks again for the photo coverage of your progress.
Mark,
Mark,
Thank you very much, I appreciate your checking in. The pond is getting some weeds and lily pads this afternoon.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jerryrbeach on May 10, 2017, 08:35:08 AM
Tom,
Wonderful little scene, all the scenery elements compliment each other so well, looks very natural. You have a great eye and the ability to translate it into beautiful scenery. I think you raise the bar for the rest of us with every photo you post!
Jerry,
Your very kind compliment on my scenery work is certainly appreciated. When doing this scenery, I recalled on the old memory of my youth on how the piney woods look as I remembered them. Some areas I left and a couple I changed as it didn't turn out how I wanted.
Bill Cutler, PennsyJ1, told me I was to hard on myself. That said, I set the bar high for myself as well.
Again, Jerry, thank you for the kind words of support and checking in on the thread.
Tom ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 10, 2017, 10:08:39 AM
Great looking scene Tom.
Curt,
Thank you my friend, your support is always appreciated.
Tom ;D
Quote from: jimmillho on May 10, 2017, 10:43:55 AM
I have been using those fancy toothpicks to apply glue and paint for a long time, ever since I fount them in the Dollar Store. I guess I need more to try them as fence posts.
Jim
Jim,
They do work great for applying glue and better for fence posts. Thanks for stopping by the thread.
Tom ;D
Quote from: RWL on May 10, 2017, 11:31:04 AM
Tom,
I thank you for the welcome, but I am not back yet. I will not be around for the gala in Orlando, I return a week before Altoona, hopefully I will see you there. Again, the modeling community will be very impressed with what you have accomplished, have a successful showing.
Bob
Bob,
Well, I haven't heard from you in some time so I assumed you were back.
I won't be going to Altoona this year. I've decided to go every other year unless the Expo is in the Boston area again.
Thank you as well for the compliment on the layout. I'll keep you posted on the NMRA visitors.
Tom ;D
Quote from: Donato on May 10, 2017, 11:35:05 AM
Tom, just so you know.....I am continuously mesmerized by your fine, delicate and realistic modeling. You Sir must have a PHD in modeling.
Donato,
You are very kind sir. I very much appreciate your approval of the A&S scenery.
I may qualify for a PHD in modeling but according to the NMRA standards I'm not qualified for any thing. ;D ;D ;D
Thank you for following the thread.
Tom ;D
Quote from: GPdemayo on May 10, 2017, 04:04:40 PM
Track speed.....when the train clears the bridge it ought to high balling at Greg Speed thru the Florida countryside. ;D ;D ;D
Greg,
Yes, track speed, not Greg Speed! High balling is track speed. Any faster and the train will suck the pine needles off the tree branches. 8)
Tom ;D
Quote from: PRR Modeler on May 10, 2017, 04:28:58 PM
Amazing Tom. The videos all look like real life.
Curt,
Thank you as always. I'm pretty happy with how these last three videos turned out.
Tom ;D
Hi Tom,
Your recent videos makes me fell like I am standing by the pond and watching that authentic looking passenger train roll by.
Quote from: Cuse on May 10, 2017, 04:36:19 PM
Wow...giving those a long look reveals just how effective those backdrops are... Great modeling!
John
John,
When I had Joey Ricard, www.tracksidescenery.com (http://www.tracksidescenery.com), do the photo backdrops, I had no idea they would look as wonderful as they do. The 3D or three layer photos he sells, is the best investment I've made for the layout.
The foreground scenery and the backdrops work extremely well together.
Come by and see what I've done before you get to planted on the coast.
Tom ;D
Quote from: sdrees on May 11, 2017, 12:01:07 PM
Hi Tom,
Your recent videos makes me fell like I am standing by the pond and watching that authentic looking passenger train roll by.
Steve,
Thank you. That's how I felt doing the videos. These are the best ones I've done to date. I definitely like the "through the tree" look on this part of the layout.
Tom ;D
Quote from: tct855 on May 10, 2017, 07:46:37 PM
KP II
Those are some really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really really nice passenger cars! You have some nice ACL equipment. Oh, and the new low angle videos are the cat's meow! ;D KP-out!
KPI,
I really (121 times) appreciate your support on the videos and the passenger equipment.
Well, it's time to lock up here.
Tom ;D
I emailed the Forum Administrator, and got a response from the famous Jimmy D.
My concern was a possible forum crash when my thread reached page 200 once again. It crashed a few months ago when I reached page 200 back then.
We agreed that it is best for the thread and the server for me to lock this thread. It is certainly unfortunate this has to be done. However, I'm willing to do it as Jimmy, Robert and Doug have given us a wonderful platform to express, share and show our work. I'll do what ever is necessary to ensure the continued smooth running of the modelers forum.
I'm locking this thread and will start a continuation of the Atlantic and Southern Build thread later this afternoon.
Tom ;D ;D