Here is the status of the bridge i'm building. I have assmbled the bridge and all is need is painting
I have painted and installed the bridge I have to say i'm really pleased with houw it looks. I need to install the rails on the inside of the track which appears on most bridges. Do i have to use some code 55 for this or can i use standard code 80 rail? I will post some pics in the next few days.
Paul, the bridge looks great. Nice job. The guard rail size seems to be connected with following the prototype. According to Micro Engineering instructions with their steel viaduct kit, prototype guard rail is usually lighter than regular rail. I use code 80 Atlas rail and ME code 55 guard rail on one bridge. On another bridge I used ME code 55 bridge rail and code 55 guard rail with no problems. I read somewhere that guard rails are seldom used on new bridges anymore because of improvements in the quality of rail. Mike Cannone San Diego, CA
Mike, thanks for your comments, it is interesting you mentioned prototype bridges, we just renewed a double track girder bridge here in Sydney and guard rails were still installed. I will have to buy a couple lengths of code 55 rail for the guard rails. I gather all I have to do is glue the rails in place with CA glue??
Yep, that's what I used too. The guard rails snuggle up perfectly next to the regular rail's molded spikes which works out to be just the right distance away. Mike
But they don't half LOOK good on a model. I believe that they were often made from rail that had passed it's 'best before' date so using the same size as the running rails would not really be an issue. But a smaller size is better from a practical point of view because the guard rails are then less likely to get cleaned when you clean the track. (You were going to weather them, weren't you ) One thing - when you bend the rails in at the ends to make a point DON'T let them touch, and put a little something between them (eg. epoxy) to act as an insulator. Otherwise you significantly increase the risk of a short through the wheel backs.
Here are pictures just taken of the slightly weathered bridge. I have realy enjoyed this project and represents a milestone in my modelling. This is the first structure I have ever built using styrene. It is also the first time I have used an airbrush, so i'm very pleased with the outcome. I'd appreciate any comments? I'd like to thank you all for your advice and encouragement. I still have to install guard rails and ballast the bridge
Paul, Thats one terriffffic job you have made of that bridge. Nice colour to. Whats your next project going to be?
I suggest you have some tall weeds growing out of the bottom canoe shaped area where the support columns go.
Paul, My next project is to add the guard rails over the bridge then do the ballast top on the bridge. the layout has progressed faster than I have thought so I willl also ballast the yard under the bridge and also have an engine service yard to install. Rick, Yes I need to fill the space between the column protection and I was thinking about adding weeds etc
Paul that looks wonderful! What an impressive scene it makes When all the ballasting and details are done, it will make a good place for railfan photography
