How to?

[lukee]

I was wondering what you need for a baseboard, and what's the best wood to use. I understand you need a frame underneath, then a board of softwood on the top such as sundeala. Does anybody know of any good step-by-step websites, or is the only source of intruction in the many books available? :)

[TWICK9]

Hi Luke, Welcome to the forum, one site that might give you some idea is http://www.newrailwaymodellers.co.uk/base_board.htm there are quiet a few more sites if you Google, Baseboard construction. Regards, Brian.

[lukee]

Cheers for that. I'll look into it. I'm wondering about building a frame for the thing to rest on. Would it be wise to build the layout first then just put it on top of the frame? :confused:

[TWICK9]

Yes I think it would be wise to do that Luke. Brian.

[lukee]

I found another page which is even more useful than the last one I think, detailing joints and supports for the main board. Think I get it now. :)

http://rail.felgall.com/bc.htm

[bypassm6]

Hi lukee just found a video at the library called "onthe right track" where they show you how to build one from scratch it's very good.:D:D
Good luck ken

[Barry Smithson]

As a newbie, I would guess the construction of a baseboard should be a 1st priority..yes or no?
I don't have a lot of room but Lukee's link is a good one & helpful. A baseboeard attached to a wall with swing out legs looks good. I suppose once you start adding scenery & weight it gets interesting.
I like the idea of a Freight set-up with type 37 & 40 loco's on it. Bachmann or Hornby, any advice?

[Beccles]

Freight is a great way to run a shunting yard and by choosing a mainline loco on and outside oval will produce that constant interest. Mine is an 8' x 4' chipboard baseboard, running LNER mainline and a shunting yard of mixed freight.

[Flashbang]

Hi
Some ideas on baseboard construction and the types of baseboard surfaces etc can be found here. Plus loads of other items to throughout the various pages...
http://www.brian-lambert.co.uk/Hints%20&%20Tips.htm
and
http://www.brian-lambert.co.uk/layout%20construction.htm

[zace66]

Years ago i have a 4'x6' that was chipboard.
Currently am construting a track around the outside of the loft using 2"x1" battons and 6mm ply for the top.
Seems to be going OK for the time being.

[marc230173]

hi , i have used a mdf base with 2/1 batterns with a plywood base - this gives me a nice gap for wiring and its light enough fo me to lift

the track base is the felt underlay leftover from our laminate floor project , glued and painted grey track pins grip but are easy to remove if needed .

my layout has tobe portable and is easy to lift and store under the sofa ( lifted up by 4 inches with decking blocks .... the top is protected by metal rods locating in holes in the board and a sheet goes over the top .
being in n gauge it can be stored or unpacked in seconds , then plug and play !!

my one big tip is , raise the sofa up over a few weeks bit by bit then no one notices the perfect crime

[D5572]

9mm plywood is a good option, chipboard is ok for starting out but it doesn't last long..eventually it warps when it becomes damp

[jmilward]

When I eventually get round to building my layout i intend to use an open frame of 3" x 1" so i can drill hole through it for the wiring and then use 9mm birch ply on top.
Jerry

[Flashbang]

When I eventually get round to building my layout i intend to use an open frame of 3" x 1" so i can drill hole through it for the wiring and then use 9mm birch ply on top.
Jerry

Good choice Jerry
9mm Birch quality ply well supported will be an ideal baseboard/track bed surface. :)