New Bridge Update 2/24/2014

Thanks Mark!

 

I decided to start into this this river scene on the far left peninsula. I only cut it in so far because this peninsula goes up one more level. Just keepin at it. Lots to do, and many areas to pick from.

 

 

 

Better hurry. I want to run trains soon. 

Louis,

 

Incredible work! I love those big sweeping curves!

 

Cesar

Hi Louis,

The layout looks great!  Going to be awesome!

 

I am about ready to start my layout and have a few questions. 

 

Where did you get the track bender? 

Will it bend any radius curve? 

How much was it (if you don't mind me asking)?

What is the distance (center rail to center rail) between your mainline tracks in the above picture?

 

Thanks!

Thanksgiving  is coming!  Time for another update yet?

 

I purchased the rail bender from here at Norms Model Supply 

 

I did not conduct any "field" tests as to how tight of a radius that it would bend. I was however able to bend a radius tighter less than 72 just fooling around. Maybe if anyone else on here has any experience they could jump in and offer their experience.

 

The prices are listed on his website. He was very helpful when responding to my questions by email as far as the questions I had. Very quick answers, ordering on the website was easy, and fast shipping. I ordered the code 148 bender for the Atlas 3 rail. This code thing should make sense when you get to the website. If not then just send an email with any questions you have.

 

My measurement center rail to center rail is 5 1/2"

 

Hope this helps. If I can help another way, don't hesitate to ask.

 

 

 

Don't think Ill make a pre thanksgiving update, but definitely a post one. The Backdrop is in, so the next update should show pictures of it up. Im excited.

 

Quick update…. Looks like not much but it felt like a lot of work!! I wasn't happy with the way the girder bridges that I did so close to the portal. I had a double track atlas bridge so I had to cut it down to 28" and rebuild it. Once that was done I had to rework the track so that It would all fit. I think It looks better than the girder bridges. I made some rock molds on this section to try and change the look a little. I will have the back drop up hopefully by the end of the weekend. Thanks for looking….. 

 

 

Just amazing craftsmanship.

I was little at the time (early 80's) but somehow I remember dad using a metal garbage can lid to bend Gar Graves track? Does that make any sense? In the old photos of the layout it looks pretty good...

Wow......am new here...will have to follow this build...Thanks for sharing !!

Louis,

 

That is going to be one fine layout.  I love the curved edges.  Nice job!

 

Dave

Keep up the great work, looks amazing!

It was great running trains over the holidays!

I've been away for some time, but its looking pretty good Louis!

Thanks Guys for the comments!

Railroaded - Not sure Bout the garbage can thing.

Dave - Your work is incredible! I would like to try to get up to your store soon.

Mike - It's good to see you. I was wondering what happened to you.

Marty - Reeeeeeal soon!!!! I'm close to having the bridge in the front done. Without it in we can't run. I'll post some bridge progress and back drop pics hopefully tonight.

Pittsburgh.....Youns are crackn on that layout !!! LOL or are you a Yinz guy ???

Im a you all guy, but there's a lot of yinzers around these parts 

Know what he means?

That's going to be a pretty neat scene when it's all done. 

 

Thanks Louis for the update.

Louis,

 

it's been a pleasure watching this layout progress. You've done some great work, and I'm looking forward to more. 

 

Andy

Terry,

 

Yes. they are the Scenic Express bridge plates. The radius in that area is O72. Hope this helps. 

Louis

thanks for the updates simply fabulous

Steve

hows that bridge coming along down there?

really nice work Louis.  I like the turns and different angles, great eye appeal

Really interesting photos...any chance for a video to scan the entire layout.  I like to see the "whole" perspective if possible.

Thanks for the comments guys.

 

The bridge is installed with some ground cover complete, and awaiting x bracing and the deck on top to be completed. I will try to get some pictures posted this week. 

 

John - I will try to post a video of the entire layout once the bridge is completed, and the trains are back up and running.

I'm looking forward to seeing it.

Quick update. Finally feel like we have some progress to show.

 

The backdrop is in. I used the same method as many on here, and hung the back drop from double sided tape. I am happy with it. 

 

I had to construct 41 trestle bents. I learned quite a lot from this project. Some things that I would change, and some that I would not. Over all, we are satisfied with it, and can not wait to run trains soon. It has been a while since we have run trains due to the bridge project. It will certainly be nice to just operate the trains and relax once it is complete. Bracing is started as seen in pictures. We still need to build the deck, and then we can set the track

 

Thanks as always for looking.

 

 

 

 

HOLY COW...now that is a bridge!!  VERY NICE....I can't wait to see it completed!!

 

Alan

Looks great Louis, thats one **** of a bridge

Bad @ss!  I am not even sure where to start, this is incredible.  I can't imagine the time involved in this project.  Really a focal point in your layout taking shape.

 

Love the back drop also, really adds to the layout.

Wow...just plain wow. Have to say I'm amazed at the patience some of you guys have. I just demolished and rebuilt my relatively puny 5x10 layout and having it taken apart for just one week drove me nuts. 

And i thought that I was building a trestle.

 

This is really awesome, please keep us posted on your progress.

Yes really awesome!

Very Nice, makes want to think, where can I put a trestle on my layout? Please post the things you would have changed as I know I could use all the help I can get! Hush Ben! <GRIN>

AMAZING!!!!!!

  way to go Louie.....

Just absolutely amazing craftsmanship.

Now if you could only get more space, KNOW WHAT I MEAN?

I'm lost for words! Simply gorgeous!