I debated on whether to write an update for April or not. It didn't seem productive. A lot of time was spent doing more wiring and configuring the Arduino turnout matrix. None of which is visible. But here goes...
I did make some progress on adding benchwork. In the area below, there are three elements that need be added individually.
Area 1: Between the gray wall and the yellow line is at the same level of the benchwork. There are two industries served. The two horizontal tracks closest to the wall are the Shell Oil unloading tracks for the Tank Train.
Area 2: This is the yellow highlight is the spline that will descend to the left and proceed to Harbor Staging.
Area 3: This is on the aisle side of the spline, and will drop 1/2" down to the scrap yard.
In order to construct this section of the railroad, I had to first construct the section on the wall side of the yellow line. Next will be to add the spline supports. Lastly will be to add the section on the fascia side going to the scrap yards.
Pictured upper right and right are the risers in place for Area 1.
As this area will be cut to an outside radius and will be an slight reach area, I opted to provide a plywood base for the drywall. While this may be over-engineering, I want to make sure I don't have any compromises.
Next was to install the drywall. One advantage to creating the plywood base is it becomes a template for the drywall cuts.
Once I paint the drywall, I will begin laying the track. Hint: The track being laid will be in the May update.
Construction continued adding the upper level to the peninsula. The frame was placed on top of the main level while the crossmembers were installed above it.
Once the crossmembers were attached to the legs, the frame was lifted up to the crossmembers and clamped into place in preparation for welding.
Welding continued as I attached each crossmember to the frame. All in all, it turned out to be very stable.
Tennis balls were added to the ends in preparation for the build out of the main level. I'd prefer not to smack my head into the sharp end of a crossmember. Thus far, no blood has been shed and I plan to keep it that way!
I did begin construction of the end of the Taylor peninsula. The challenge is that I have to design the end to 1) support the helix connecting the staging and main levels, and 2) build out the superstructure required for running the main level around the helix connecting of both sides of the peninsula. This has to accommodate both the single track main and a switching lead for the Bull Ring yard.
To the right is the original construction frame to which the support structure will be added.
Right is the initial frame added to the existing frame base. Just adding this section shored of the end of the peninsula significantly.
Another view of the base.
And some more steel was welded into place.
Up next is to fill in the spaces where the helix base benchwork will go. I plan to cut a full circle of plywood as the base which will be mounted on top of the steel.
The update for April is a shorter one. May's update will be more significant.
Thanks for reading!
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