HCD construction questions

joebalto Feb 7, 2014

  1. joebalto

    joebalto TrainBoard Member

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    Ok I am working on setting up a few HCDs to get my layout up and running.
    Ok question 1 At how far from the edge of the doors do you mount the legs?
    question 2 Do you run a piece of wood from edge to edge for the legs or a short distance a couple of inches past the legs?
    I will be securing the wood brace to the door with adhesive caulk and I have my legs. Just gotta cut the bracing and secure the legs. Hopefully this weekends project for me.
    Thanks in advance for the help..........
     
  2. casmmr

    casmmr TrainBoard Member

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    I have used several HCD's together to make my layout. On each HCD I use a 1x4 from edge to edge, glued along the entire length and screwed into the frame at the ends (30" length for a 30" wide door). Most HCD's have a very thin veneer and it is not strong enough to hold if someone where to lean or fall against the HCD. The last thing you want is to tear the veneer. I mount the legs using 2 lengths for each leg set. Extend the legs and mount the leg and then the brace fold the legs after glue and screw the leg length to make sure you have the correct spacing. I usually mount the first length of 1x4 about 12-15" from the end of the HCD. Hope this helps.
     
  3. joebalto

    joebalto TrainBoard Member

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    That is just what I was looking for. I have my 1x4s sitting next to the legs and doors waiting for me to get off of work tomorrow morning. Thanks for the reply.
     
  4. BoxcabE50

    BoxcabE50 HOn30 & N Scales Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter

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    Definitely edge to edge. As already noted about the veneer, the more wood, the more any stress on that veneer is spread out. Then you should be just fine.
     
  5. WPZephyrFan

    WPZephyrFan TrainBoard Member

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    Here's how I did mine. I might have the legs a bit too far from the ends, but they work very well:

    [​IMG]
     
  6. Team DTO

    Team DTO TrainBoard Member

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    You said your going to use a few HCD's for your layout. If you just glue/screw 1X4's edge to edge for the legs, how will you bolt the HCD's together? What I used was butt joint framework using 1X4's and then screwed the HCD's on. The HCD has a wood frame that runs around the edge, drill pilot holes and screw down the door using drywall screws. You can then attach the tables using carriage bolts.
     

    Attached Files:

  7. Primavw

    Primavw TrainBoard Member

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    I think everyone has answered your questions thoroughly. I think as long as you stick to running screws in on the far outside of the door surface it should be stout enough. I ran about 8-10 screws into the length of each side and 5-6 on the width. The main braces for the legs are screwed fast to the 2"x3" wood frame and I used metal L brackets and to brace the legs. I didn't use glue btw. The inside of the door is hollow (obviously) barring corrugated board so it isn't going to hold much of a load.

    Here's my benchwork
    http://www.trainboard.com/grapevine/showthread.php?154544-Nittany-and-Lock-Haven-HCD-Layout
     

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