Trestle building.
Oct, 2013. We have a low area on the layout so decided not to fill in the mainline area and to build a trestle or bridge. Came up with the idea to put railings on it so we call it the trestle over "Little Swale". Needed about 30' to go over the low spot so got some 10' 2x4 and started to make three 10' panels. Decided to make it about 3' wide so can have decking boards on both sides of the track for footing. This way if a train has to stop on it the people can have a place to put their feet and walk off. As you can see from the pictures I added plenty of cross bracing, for support. The panels are heavy!
trestlebridgepanel2.pdf | |
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Nov, 2013. This is where they will go. Laid out where the mainline will be and started to excavate for the supports for the trestle. Those are the pavers setting on the side.
Dec, 2013. Here I am installing the trestle panels. Notice it is early December and still can work outside. A little cold but not bad. Got the trestle panels all installed and leveled and just laid the track panels on the trestle. Then, a week later winter set in and the snow came.
May, 2014. Spring is here and warm enough to work outside. Finished getting the track panels put together and screwed down.
July, 2014. Now it is summer and decided to work on the side railings. came up with an idea and built them out of 2x3's with plywood gusset plates. Built them in the basement and then took out side and installed on the trestle. Not bad, I think they look pretty good!
trestlerail2.pdf | |
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Sept, 2014. Decided, with some prodding from Mary Ellen, that the bare wood needs a coat of something. Got out the stain and put a couple of coats one it. It is a gray color and looks good.