| A good solid platform that is going to support a Model | | | | Now the track can be installed. Because there is an |
| Railroaders layout is essential. In this article we shall | | | | empty space it is easier to get it right first time with |
| explore in detail what are the main components of | | | | any track detailing such as turn-ins and turn-outs, cross |
| benchwork and the essential elements of design. | | | | overs, turntables and sidings. The wiring can be |
| There is great comfort in doing it right first time. | | | | finalised and controllers installed. |
| The part of the benchwork that is rarely seen or even | | | | This is where the fun starts because the locomotives |
| considered by the visitor to your layout is the | | | | and rolling stock can be installed and tested, here the |
| beam-work, or under structure. This should consist of | | | | controllers and the wiring get tested at the same time |
| vertical, cross and diagonal bracing. | | | | of course. This may well be a substantial layout and |
| The verticals are obviously the legs and ideally will be | | | | before any scenery or accessories are positioned |
| fixed to the floor and to the top. The cross bracing are | | | | access has be assured where it is not possible to |
| the runners that ensure the legs are always in parallel | | | | reach from the control center. It is really difficult to put |
| with each other and should be fixed to the top and to | | | | scenery onto areas that are normally out of reach. If |
| each leg about 7-9 inches from the floor. Each | | | | the benching is strong enough though to take the |
| diagonal brace absolutely has to be fixed to a leg and | | | | weight of the modeller, no problem. |
| a cross brace. Never from leg to leg or cross brace to | | | | Many modellers paint the bench top before anything is |
| cross brace. This is critical to ensure stability. | | | | installed as this gives them a base from which to add |
| The platform or top surface should be at least half | | | | their scenery. A shade of a neutral green or brown is |
| inch plywood or flooring grade chipboard or MDF. You | | | | common. It all sounds easy doesn't it? Well it actually is |
| will notice that these three materials are loosely | | | | because what is described here is the carrying out of |
| described as particle or laminate board, this is essential | | | | a plan. If the benchwork and initial installation is well |
| for the dimensional stability that the track requires. | | | | thought out and designed it is easy and also quite quick |
| Before anything else the benchwork has to be the | | | | to do. |
| finished article before any track is laid or scenery | | | | So if you are considering building a new benchwork |
| installed. All sharp edges rounded off, joins smoothed | | | | installation all you have to do is draw it, size it, design |
| out and glued if possible and the control station defined. | | | | the under structure, cut everything to size and install it. |
| Also, now is a good time to drill the platform to run | | | | Whether a simple or complex benchwork installation |
| electrical wiring underneath the top to keep it all tidy | | | | the rules are exactly the same. |
| and out of sight. | | | | |