Fascia Installation

With the help of layout master plumber / chief carpenter Mark Andersen, fascia installation has begun. Mark has built one each of almost everything in his career so is an excellent source for suggesting material and techniques.

We had used Masonite (C) on the previous layout but wanted something more flexible. Mark suggested using 1/4" bending poplar which is sometimes used to wrap around exposed pipes to create a more finished appearance.

Here, Mark is constructing installation points out of 1 x 2 ' s.



Here's a shot of the first installed section. The poplar is plenty flexible.

Progress at Gallitzen

We are continuing to make good progress, including quite a bit of recent work at the "top of the hill".

Here Bernie and JB wrestle the turnback section into final position. The section was built at the workbench, allowing wiring and switch machines to be installed without working underneath the layout.








The hole that JB is "testing" allows emergency access to a turnout at the back of the section.

We have also been working on scenery in this location, including finally getting track painted in preparation for ballast, backdrop painting, planting trees, and preparing for the first layer of scenic material representing the open fields just north of the railroad at the east portals.

Here is an aerial view of progress to date.

Rock Carving Session

Bernie carved some rocks at MG Tower

John mocks up the Gallitzin Tunnel and realizes that the backdrop horizon needs to be lowered a tad.

Work Session 1 Dec 2010

JB Weilupp and Bernie Kempinski attended JD's work session on 1 Dec. JB did track work and tree planting while Bernie painted backdrops. Here are some photos.

Behind Gallitizin Tunnel

Downhill from Gallitizin Tunnel

JB Working on something

Behind Gallitizin

Horseshoe Curve

View over top of MG Tower area

Horseshoe Curve

JB and JD admiring new backdrop at Gallitizin

Horseshoe Curve