Starting my first layout and need help
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The Wrap
Joined: Jan 5, 2012
Topics: 4 Replies: 3
Topics: 4
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I am looking for assistance with the building of my table's frame. As I have been reviewing the site it has been noticed a lot of detail is put towards the framing. I would even go as far as saying some of the frame work that I've seen is borderline art. The plan for my table was to just frame it out of 2x3 and cover it with 1/2 inch plywood the homasote on top of that. The layout will be fairly small in size, 6x8x10 L-shape, and didn't know if the framing plan should be revisited. The track plan is still in design, but I have a fairly good idea which way I'll be going with it. For track I am using Fastrack with O-36 curves on the main level, and tubular O-27 on the upper level. Any advice will be greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
John (The Wrap)
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tileman56
Joined: Mar 9, 2011
Topics: 3 Replies: 22
Topics: 3
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John, read, read, read, is the the best advise and then shake it all down to make common sense decisions that work for your railroad. The problem w/using 2x3's is that it a very unstable/forever twisting lumber and will warp quickly and with 1/2" ply & homasote soft structure top it will turn your platform into looking like a view over the hills and valleys of kansas! You are better off using rips of a 3/4" x 3"or 4"stable plywood turned on edge w/12-14" centers for the bones of you table and go from there. It is lighter and 10x more stable(free from distortion). You can bolt together sections for easy setup/creation and future moves. I am in the process of constructing and have gotten good advice and assistance from Tom Tee here on the board and you can check my progress out as tileman56. For me it is not about building fancy but building once successfully without the forces of nature warping my train platform. Hope this if food for thought. Richard
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The Wrap
Joined: Jan 5, 2012
Topics: 4 Replies: 3
Topics: 4
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Rich, Thank you for the info. I didn't think of ripping down a sheet of plywood and using it as framing. I started putting 2x2s on the wall to act as a ledge for the table top, now I'll just rip down a sheet for the stringers. I am trying to keep to a budget and that may help a bit. Thank you again. John
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