The Helix
The next step on my layout was to complete the four levels
of the helix. The lowest level is the return loop at the far end
of trackwork, behind Shreveport Union Station. The second
level up shows where the benchwork, to the right, connects
to the lowest level of the helix, leading to the left, with a piece
of one-quarter inch Masonite. Four-and-one-half turns above
this reaches track level on the upper deck, at Siloam Springs,
Arkansas (1).
The helix starts its descent at Siloam Springs in the back dis-
tance curving to the left and around into the foreground.
Fabricated plywood support arches stabilize the plywood
benchwork in the center of the helix (2).
The helix then curves around to the right and ducks beneath
the plywood deck at Siloam Springs (3).
1: Helix, lower level.
1
Mainline south, continued
Doing roadbed, backdrop, and lighting
M
y last column documented the creation of the new
benchwork for the mainline addition to my Kansas
City Southern Railroad. I have reviewed some com-
ments on the previous article about the relative inflexibility
of the modular plywood benchwork, that I created, including
some scenic contours. Those comments are certainly correct.
There is a spectrum of philosophy about this. It varies from
John Allen who planned meticulously in advance, installing wir-
ing for signals which would not be installed until 10 years later!
On the other end of the spectrum is George Sellios, who does
not do elaborate planning in advance, but the layout takes
shape as it is constructed.
Obviously I tend toward the John Allen end of the scale. That
said, there is very little in my current benchwork that could not
be changed by removing screws and using a jigsaw and hammer!
Getting Real column - 1
Getting Real column: Adventures in prototype modeling
by Nick Muff
Modeling the Kansas City Terminal Railway
and the Kansas City Southern ...
MRH-Jan 2013
