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So I'm planning the yard for the "new and improved" layout now and trying to work in the number of tracks that I will require without overcrowding the scene.
The problem I am having is my present loco shop (Walthers Diesel House) eats up a lot of real estate.
I was thinking about the Pikestuff two track shop when I realized I probably have enough styrene bits and pieces here to make a similar building, one that wouldn't have that "seen it before" kind of look.
The main components of this build will be Evergreen Models sheet metal siding (item 4529) and windows from a City Classics Smallman St. Warehouse.
The base is from leftover Walthers Modulars pieces.
Here's the walls cut into sections that match the width of the windows and reassembled.
And here is a wall getting attached to a styrene base. The cutout will be an inspection pit and the stairs will lead to platforms on both sides of one track.
Now the end wall is up with a man door in place. I used styrene angle to hold everything together and beef up the wall to look a little more solid.
I believe the sanding stucture was a Plastruct kit.
Here's a view of how I used triangular styrene gussets to add a little strength to the corners.
I also use styrene angle and square shapes to help support the walls and roof.
One thing I regret already was that I glued the windows in place before I have a chance to paint it.
A necessary evil as they were needed to keep the walls from coming apart, normally I just tape things together until it's time to paint but the sectional construction of this build wouldn't allow for that.
I still need to fabricate the doors and add a Walthers overhead crane to the interior.
There will be a lot of puttying, sanding, and details to add yet, vents, piping, tools, etc.
Hopefully I can post some updates before I get busy with other projects, model and house reno's!
It is looking good so far. I just started using styrene for the first time the other day. It's really cool how easily it glues together with this Plastruct Plastic Weld. What do you use for adhesive?
Hey Rico - nice job on the shop. I just picked up a Pikestuff 2 stall engine house - I am going to paint it to match the CEMR shop and add a small office.
Looking good, buddy. Have you started building a layout, yet? I got to get that Jordan spreader finished before it is time to ballast the track. Where did you get the steel weights? I have been trying to find some of those. Take care,Ron.
Thanks, Buddy. That would be awesome. I have been looking for a while now. No rush for them , though. If that spreader turns out half as good as you think it is, it should look great. It's been sitting, waiting patiently for me to figure out a few things. Glad you aren't in a rush. What's it been? About 2 or 3 years? It is actually pretty close to being finished. Just a few little design issues and a little more research needed. Then you'll be spreadin ballast or entering it in contests or whatever else you want to do with it. Maybe we'll have to try a G scale version next. Take care, Buddy.
Sat the shop on the "layout" next to the Walthers shop for a size comparison tonight.
Going to two tracks from three will allow one more for the yard or RIP track...
Your new shop is very similar to the old cardstock Suydam/California/Alpine Scale Models diesel house. I think it was based on an SP prototype, but many of a similar type were built during the transition years.
Got a little painting done and found some lights I forgot I had so threw them onto the base.
Still have some gaps to fill in yet and have to make the overhead roll up doors.
Can't go any further until my styrene supply is replenished...
