The new layout is only 12 feet by 14 feet but has enough space for an exciting layout. The new layout, when completed will be three tiered. Below are some photos of the construction of the layout. It was assembled using pre-built modules. The modules were designed by Zeke Sampson and built by Barry Kreigsman.

My New Layout -November/ December 2010.

This section shows the benchwork for my new layout. It shows all the work up to track installation which will be the next section.

The pre-built modules were constructed by Barry Kriegsman who built them in his Foxboro, Massachusetts shop and transported them to my new home in Westbury, New York.

Since the layout is in a small space and has three levels the connections from the lower level to the main level were initially to be connected with two helices. I changed that as you will see in later photos.

Barry begins by measuring for the wall supports.

The mahogany wall supports for the lower level and the main level. The separation between these two levels is fifteen (15) inches. The long posts were temporary supports used to install the modules.

Barry installs the first module - the lower level on the back wall. The module is supported by a temporary posts.

The right lower level.

This is the right lower level module that was to have a helix. I ultimately removed the helix in favor of a long ramp. Some of the following photos will show the helix installed but it has been removed. Note the permanent supports are in place. They are made of mahogany wood. This wood once cut in the desired lengths and widths will not change or warp.

Positioning the right helix which eventually was removed.

The left lower level. One of the mahogany posts is on the benchwork.

Each level was covered by a thin layer of cork.

Parts of the lower level covered with cork. The mahogany posts will support the main (middle) level as well as the lower level.

The lower level covered with cork.

The first module of the main (middle) level installed. Note how the extended mahogany posts support both the lower and the main levels.

The right main level installed. The cut for the helix exit/entry point is about to be made. This helix was eventually removed and replaced with a ramp from the lower level. Trains will go up the ramp and down the remaining helix on the right side of the layout.

The cut has been made on the right main level.

The left main level.

The cut for the helix has been made on the left main level.

Applying the glue for the cork was the messiest part of the job. You have to wait for the glue to set before installing the cork. Once the cork is installed you have to roll it. One of the earlier photos shows the small roller that was used.

The right upper level installed. Short mahogany posts were used to support the upper level. These posts were eventually covered with thin simulated stone sheets to make them look like stone supports. You will see this in the completed layout photos.

 

The next section will show the tracks being installed.