Custom O-Scale Turntable Construction Pictures

Here are some pictures showing the construction of a custom built O-Scale turntable.

Atlas O27 track is used for the pit rail

Pit rail installation

Pit wall installation

Install arch on bridge deck

Ballasting Track

I am ballasting the track using Brennan's Better Ballast. The product is great, and the end result is absolutely fantastic. 

I am using techniques described by +ericstrains. You can find Eric's tutorial videos on YouTube.

• O-Scale 3-Rail Track Tutorial (Part 1) 
• O-Scale 3-Rail Track Tutorial  (Part 2)
• O-Scale 3-Rail Track Tutorial (Part 3) 

The ballast is still wet with glue.

I am also weathering the ties and rails. Weathering removes the sheen from the ties and gives it a grungy look.

Adding Backdrops

I started adding the backdrops to the layout. The backdrop boards are 1/8" masonite screwed to 2x3s. The 2x3s are attached to the layout benchwork. The 2x3s are backed with felt to keep from marring the walls. The seams and screw holes are covered with drywall tape and mud. 

The overall structure is quite sturdy.

I still need to sand the seams and screw holes. Once smooth, the background will be painted a very light "sky blue" color.

Inexpensive Engine Cradle

I recently built an O-Scale engine cradle to reduce damage during service and repair.

Materials Needed

• 3 2x4s (cut to 20 inches)
• old towel
• a few screws

Screw together the 2x4s (the foam padding on the sides is not needed)

Add an old towel

Insert engine for servicing

Layout Update - Bridge Installation

Bridge Installed

Future location of Silica Plant

Layout Update #3 - Turntable Benchwork and Switch Installation

New Benchwork with Custom Turntable Installed

Foam board installed

Foam board painted brown

Atlas O #5 Switch with two insulated rails wired to an Atlas O Non-derailing Circuit Board

Atlas O Non-derailing Circuit Board controlling the #5 Switch

Layout Update #2

Starting Over Is Fun

I recently picked up Dennis Brennan's "Realistic Modeling for Toy Trains". Dennis is a really nice guy. He was gracious enough to answer a few questions and provide input that helped me design my new layout.

After reading the book I decided to start over from the beginning. My original layout was a boring oval. 

New Layout

The new layout incorporates three main areas: industrial zone, small town, and scenic bluffs crossing a river. 

Next Steps

1. tear down existing layout
2. reconfigure the L-girder benchwork
3. install table top (possibly using foam board or ceiling tiles for noise reduction)
4. start laying Atlas O track (about 207 feet of track)