So I'm preparing to build my first N scale layout. Conveniently the only space I have available 5 1/2' x 6' 8". Perfect for a 36"x80" HCD layout. I'm having doubts about bench work. The HCD is only solid around the edges so that is where I would have to screw in the 1x4's I intend on using to support table legs. Will the edges of HCD be strong enough to suppor that, plus fascia with a control panel, and small shelf for a Digitrax Zephyr? Or would I do okay to take David Barrow's Domino method and expand it from 18x48" to 36x80"? Being Active Duty Navy, I think the domino bench work would hold up better during moves. What are your thoughts/suggestions?
I think the average hollow-core dore is amply strong around its perimeter to allow you to screw vertically-oriented 1x4's into the sides-in other words, the vertical dimension of the 1x4 is 3 1/2". You'll have to decide how much of the 3 1/2" dimension will protrude above the door's top surface. I imagine you would want the top of the 1x4 even with the top of the door. You should then be able to mount the fascia to the 1x4's. Alternatively, you could build a 1x4 support frame/leg assembly with the inside dimensions, say, 1/8" larger than your door and set the door into that frame. My layout is also 36x80. Originally I planned to buy a hollow core door but instead built a simple 1x4 box/ladder frame with 2x2 legs and 1x2 angle stiffeners for the legs. To this frame I nailed 1/4" lauan plywood and then glued 2" thick extruded foam on top. Strong, lightweight, and perfect for a small layout. Good luck and feel free to post other questions.
When I built my HCD layout, I screwed 1" x 4"s to the bottom, putting the screws at the ends, where they would bite into the perimeter framework. To these, I mounted folding banquet table legs that I got from Lowe's for $20.
Small layout benchwork I, too needed a small, easily portable layout due to frequent relocation for work. I opted to use 1/4in. Lauan plywood for substrate covered with 2in. foamboard. I boxed the plywood/foamboard with 1 X 3 clear boards, both for appearance and for preservation of the edges when moving. I built my boards in 2ft. by 4ft. pieces, and support them on a couple of folding tables that are 20in. by 48in. that I got at Target for about $20 each. They put the layout at about 30in. off the floor. I added some 1 X 3 stringers to the bottom of each section to protect the wiring underneath the table. The sections can be clamped together with C-clamps, or screwed together with carriage bolts. Both methods allow easy dis-assembly for relocation. This method allows easier portability than a hollow-core door, so you might want to consider the modular approach. I have to carry my stuff in the back of a short-box pickup with topper, so length is an issue for me. Whatever method you choose, take your time to get the foundation correct. Having a stable layout means your track and other stuff just might work better and stay put. By the way, thanks for your service to the country! :mbiggrin:
