Extending Wooden Support Legs

[rickb773]

I would like to extend my layout's support legs (2"x3"s) by 6 inches. Is there a simple way to do this without leg disassembly?

Here's the background: My initial modules were built with 48" legs. I am experimenting with the next (currently freestanding) module  with 54" legs and I like the appearance much better. (Harder to work on but much better viewing angle). But now I would need to increase the original 3 modules ((2) 16"x6' & (1) 24"x48") by 6". Sounds simple so far.

The first (middle) 16"x6' module was constructed with 4 legs. The 2nd & 3rd connecting modules with 2 legs all using 1"x3" box construction (South Jersey flatlands). The 3 modules all tightly straddle bookshelves (see my blog for my stupidity decisions: July 16, 2011:  http://rickb773-prsl.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2011-09-12T15:39:00-07:00&max-results=10&start=20&by-date=false).

I was going to replace the 2x3s with longer 1x3s and then realized that the current legs have attaching screws on 2 sides which includes the sides where the modules are attached together. If I need to disassemble the modules to get to the side screws I will have to destroy the connecting streets and scenery which hide the joints. Something I would like to avoid.

So the question is: Is there any simple way to add 6" to the bottom of the existing legs???

[Ian MacMillan]

I've seen a few members here add PVC pipe to the bottom to get the extended height.

[rickb773]

I've seen a few members here add PVC pipe to the bottom to get the extended height.

How do you add PVC pipe to the bottom of a wooden 2x3?

[Ian MacMillan]

How do you add PVC pipe to the bottom of a wooden 2x3?

Find a way to lift the layout about 12" with jacks or some friends. Slip on some 3"id x 9" long PVC and then bolt through pipe and inner 2x3.  Its obviously easier if it was a 2x2 or a 3x3.
You may find that the easiest way is to remove one leg at a time, mod it, and then install and work your way down the line.

[Flagler]

Saw off the old legs & add new ones

[rickb773]

You may find that the easiest way is to remove one leg at a time, mod it, and then install and work your way down the line.

I wouldn't have a problem if I actually could remove the legs (one at a time). The issue is getting the 1 1/2" screws off the 2nd side that is mated to the next module. I'm sure I could undo the screws from the outer sides but even if I leverage the leg out I'm still stuck dealing with sharp protruding screws that are trapped/blocked by the end pieces of the adjoining module.

[Flagler]

Can you lift the layout of the ground or is attached to a wall?

[Ian MacMillan]

I wouldn't have a problem if I actually could remove the legs (one at a time). The issue is getting the 1 1/2" screws off the 2nd side that is mated to the next module. I'm sure I could undo the screws from the outer sides but even if I leverage the leg out I'm still stuck dealing with sharp protruding screws that are trapped/blocked by the end pieces of the adjoining module.

Ok,
Like Flagger and I said, can you liift it so that it can be jacked to the height you want and then mod legs?

[rickb773]

Gentlemen, thank you for your input.
Yes I can raise the modules but I don't want to push out further from the wall which I imagine the round PCV pipe would do. (I already have more than enough stuff dropping behind the open shelving.)

A question? Would something like a tie plate on 2 sides enable me to accomplish adding a similar 6" 2x3 to the bottom.
See: http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1v/R-100375260/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&keyword=wood+tie&storeId=10051

[Flagler]

yes a tie plate would work,but why not just scew some wood of the same dimension but only one foot long to the inside of your   L

[LV LOU]

Saw off the old legs & add new ones

This is what I'd do..Just cut the old legs off flush,and screw/glue in new ones..Also,I always put adjusters on the end of my legs..

[Catt]

Rick,
 if you just want to extend your module legs how about using something like this?http://www.homedepot.com/Building-Materials-Builders-Hardware/h_d1/N-5yc1vZaqzs/R-100375233/h_d2/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&storeId=10051

I realize they are probably more money than you wanted to spend ,but they would make a stronger splice.

[rickb773]

I agree with CATT that the corner tie plates would have been the better solution but I took the cheepie way out and used straight tie plates, one on each side. 58 cents each for 4 legs x 2 = $4.64.

Not a recommended practice but they worked.

[nkalanaga]

Don't see why straight plates on each side wouldn't work.  They can't easily bend sideways, and with two on opposite sides, one would have to stretch to bend either one.