The basic framework was tackled first. After final discussion about the construction, we gathered suitable materials. A sheet of 9mm plywood had been discovered which was thought to be older than the workshop. A bit scruffy, but usable. Initially, this was considered for the cross-members as well, but then a length of new softwood was found, which decided things. Strips were cut from the ply.
And cross members cut from the softwood,
All of the holes for screws were drilled and countersunk...
... and the first frame assembled.
A few clamps came in handy.
As the final screws were inserted, the frame was checked against the existing station board frame for any issues, of which there weren't any. The new frame was clamped against the existing frame to dry out, to ensure as tight a fit as possible.
The cross-member blocks are set at existing track base level, the lowest likely datum. Additional blocks/packing will be added once the final track profile is agreed.
Finally, the track-bed strip was dropped into place, to see what it looked like. The sides will be cut down to suit the existing ground and the slope on the outside.
The final track level will be determined in due course and a slope up to the water tank is the aim. Issues such as magnet positions, run-away wagons, ease of construction and general appearance will all need to be taken into account.
And that will have to wait until 2025!
