BNSF - Ponderosa Subdivision

[chuck geiger]

Back to the drawing board...Didn't like the tree line and it was too distant from the horizon line.

[wazzou]

@chuck geiger Curious why you are using solid wood pieces in that bridge?  How will you be able to install the thread?

[chuck geiger]

The CV cross braces were way too much of a hassle. I will try the thread on the outside and push the wood braces more towards inside.

[chuck geiger]

Like the backdrop much better now. Used this technique from Charlie Comstock and others.

[chuck geiger]

Like the results so far. Going to begin laying track.

[Ed Kapuscinski]

I like it, generally, although that one stryrofoam seam is a bit noticeable in the first photo. Some vegetation might hide it though.

[chuck geiger]

I am going to carpet with putty. Just painted it to hide pink. I have used DAP Dry Dex and it works great.

[chuck geiger]

Also, boys I need some help - I am using ME Code 55 joiners and they are much tighter than Atlas. Any ideas other than small jewelers screwdriver or X ACTO knife to prime the joiners? I remember someone using rail in a block to expand the sleeve before applying. Help from hurting thumbs.

[chuck geiger]

Bridge shoes from zip ties. One thing I got out of recent MR. A little over sized, but passable.




Found these and look better at work:

[Ed Kapuscinski]

For getting things loosened up... might I suggest tequila? Wait... nevermind. Different thing.


Anyway, I think a dull #11 blade might help. Also, get yourself one of the Atlas thongs.
https://www.modeltrainstuff.com/atlas-401-all-scales-rail-joiner-sidekick-tool/
It's a good finger saver.

[coosvalley]

Also, get yourself one of the Atlas thongs.

I can already picture the disturbing header image!

BTW, I like how this scene is coming together

[Mark W]

Any ideas other than small jewelers screwdriver or X ACTO knife to prime the joiners? I remember someone using rail in a block to expand the sleeve before applying. Help from hurting thumbs.

The rail in a block method works, but I find the xacto blade (or ruler, or track gauge) method a whole lot easier. 


https://i.imgur.com/KLtlHf3.jpg


https://i.imgur.com/VWL6nmM.jpg

[MK]

Also, boys I need some help - I am using ME Code 55 joiners and they are much tighter than Atlas. Any ideas other than small jewelers screwdriver or X ACTO knife to prime the joiners? I remember someone using rail in a block to expand the sleeve before applying. Help from hurting thumbs.

You can try widening the joiner up first but if it's already open and you think all you need is a stronger force, don't use your thumb.  I get a 1" x 1" square piece of plywood or any small scarp will do, and put that between your thumb and the joiner.  Then you can push as hard as you want without geting punctured.

[chuck geiger]

Thanks fellas!

[chuck geiger]

Dope Ed also new shoes for mamma's kids! Found these at work...