I moved last year and had to take down both of my layouts. My new home provides me with a space for a 6 X 14 layout. Unfortunately it must be against two walls hence the need for castors. The mounting plates for the castors will not fit on a 2x4 if I use 4 screws. It should be OK if I use two screws and arrange the mounting plates accordingly. Would this be better than using castors with a center bolt which would go into a drilled hole in the 2x4?
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Al why not screw another 2x4 to the lower end of each leg to allow you to use the castor plate utilizing all 4 mounting screw’s. I did this for my 7x10 prewar layout without issue.
Good idea Rich. Thanks
@Rich Wiemann posted:Al why not screw another 2x4 to the lower end of each leg to allow you to use the castor plate utilizing all 4 mounting screw’s. I did this for my 7x10 prewar layout without issue.
I did the same thing with 2 - 2x4's screwed together. I used non-locking casters against the walls, and lockable ones in front so the layout can't move unless you want it to move. Especially good if you have kids or large pets that might run into it and send things flying.
The solution depends on the size and weight of the layout and the surface on which it needs to roll. Splitting the legs with the shaft or mounting screws is an issue. A single wheel under the leg can also put a lot of lateral force on the leg while moving the layout. I have a rather large layout on 2x2 legs that needs to be moved occasionally. I use 3-wheel steel dollies - very stable and sturdy, easy to move, no risk of splitting the legs, and no need to modify the legs.
Search for "3 wheel dolly". The capacity and prices vary widely; the less expensive ones (under $10 each) are sufficient for most layouts. Here are some examples:
https://www.harborfreight.com/...nhFcqbhoC47cQAvD_BwE
https://www.amazon.com/QWORK-T...gid=pla-882548677838
The ones I used: https://www.menards.com/main/h...612921342&ipos=6
This is a 3x3 inch post with heavy duty caster. I have a fairly layout and it rolls smooth and easy. By using 3x3 I was able to screw in fairly large caster.
Ps I had to drill my own holes in caster plate so it would work on 3x3 post.
Also I used two 4by1’s for legs and screwed them together, as in photo.
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