Layout construction started

Expensive indeed, around $600 for two kits plus add on. No thanks. I’ll buy used or build it myself.

I thought you would say that and I agree.  I would not have bought one new either.

Did you use any software to design your layout or did you hand draw it? Either way could you share the design? Thanks!!

I used an AutoCAD compatible program - CMS Intellicad. I’ll create a PDF of the layout and post it tomorrow.

This is the overall layout design I am using.

The black track is the lower level and is basically flat. The magenta track is the connection between the lower and upper level track. I call it the Mid-Level. The blue track is the double track upper level and varies between 10.75" and 13.29" above the framing. The red track are custom cut sections of track.

The following three drawings shown each of the three levels separately.

I used the CAD program to design my layout because I wanted to be able to get coordinates for any point on the layout and be able to translate that to the actual layout. On the bottom left of the drawing for the Upper Level 0,0 of the coordinate system is called out. I marked out a grid system on the framing from which to measure and locate any point.

I am a retired structural engineer whose area of practice was highway structures like bridges, retaining walls, etc. We used stationing along the alignments which were also the profile grade line.  I used that same system for designing my layout. On each level drawing you will see Stations, Elevation, and in some cases coordinates for points along the track.

Jack, that is a really well thought out plan!  That is great you can use your background in structural engineering and CAD to plan in a very detailed and precise manner.

@Jack L Thanks for sharing! You put a lot of time in your planning and I'm sure it's gonna come out great!

@Jack L posted:

I've finished the framing. I built the wall on the left a while ago adding some outlets and extended a wire out to connect to outlets in the future platform framing. You can see the yellow wire coming out along on of the joist. It connects to a switch and then on to outlets on either side of the aisle-way. I wanted a 'kill' switch so if something goes wrong and can cutoff the power to everything in an instant.

Great beginnings Jack!

For the truss bridges I need for my layout I decided to purchase a 3D printer, design the truss, draw in ICad in 3D, export the STL files, use Cura to generate the gcode files, and then print out and assemble the truss. I've completed on of the 40" trusses I need. Photos follow.

Jack, that truss bridge looks great!  It is certainly strong enough to carry an engine as the 4th photograph shows.  Considering you already have the printer, the bridge cost very little compared to my Atlas 40" double track truss bridge I bought used.

Nice work Jack!  I too am a retired bridge engineer.  Love the proof load.