Millfield. Attempting a layout with a helix (or two)!

[poindexter]

Hmm how do I get down from here?







This is my new layout thread there is no track plan as such yet. To start with it will be simple twin track (no points!) across the top board, down one helix, across the bottom boards, then back up another helix. Just to prove I can build it. Then I will think about plans. Probably be twin track with a station, a TMD based on Cambois and some kind of industrial sidings (either steel or cement).

I basically want to watch my rakes of VGA, MEA, BAA, TEA, JGA, and BDA wagons running round that have been collecting dust in the loft.

My other layout, Stockton Road TMD will still be worked on as I still need to learn scenic skills and practice other model railway skills.














More pics as work progresses

[TK421]

Sounds like a plan, will be interesting to see how you get on with the helix I think they're great for doubling the layout size despite how much room the helix takes itself.

[craw607]

Some fine joinery work going on will be good watching the progress.
John

[poindexter]

Thanks for the comments and interest lads, always good when someone is along for the ride!

So folks I had a good night tonight so here's the results. If I'm posting too many pics then say so!!

The rods are in but no boards are fastened down. I still have to check it all works clearance wise. My next task is to mock up an approach to the first section from the lower boards to see what works then when thats sorted I can reach for the sky!! Well up to the next level any way!







Thats all Folk!

[lozstlouis]

Thats impressive!

[poindexter]

Evening gents.

This evening I set about trying to get a loco to run on a section of the helix. This is the result!







https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGUUiSvfCqg

[Essex2Visuvesi]

Nicely done probably cheaper than the noch one as well

[lozstlouis]

All that school geometry tested there!

[TK421]

It's looking good mate what incline is the helix? and what radius are the loops of track?

[Peterm]

Oooh I'm keeping an eye on this one. Do you ever get anywhere near Bribie Island in Australia

[poindexter]

Hi
Not sure what gradient the incline is No real measurements were made during construction, I just got 2 loops of third and fourth radius set track made a trammel with a nail and pencil cut out some ply and built round it.

The pictures really have flattered my wood working skills!

Thanks for all the interest and if anybody has any other constructive input please post it. I ain't done this before!

[AK46]

Looks good, will keep an eye on this for updates and since I'm just starting out I'll leave the helix for a while before I attempt one!

[Peterm]

Shame on you for not knowing what the gradient is. The good news is that when you come to Australia to do mine, you can borrow my inclinometer.

[poindexter]

Hi folks. A little bit more progress. The board with no track on at all will be cut somewhere along its length and a straight section added to take it onto the the main board.

The height between decks is now 90mm so some extensive testing with a large rake of small wheelbase wagons will be done at the weekend.

The 37 in the pic goes up fine but wether it will go up with 18 MEA or 12 TEA will be another matter. Watch this space!

[poindexter]

Well my first helix is done!!!! Yeah!!

These pics show the completed helix for Millfield, although there is still track to fasten down properly etc.

Bachmann 37511 (renumbered and weathered) has the honours of attempting the first climb of the helix with 14 Bachmann BAA's in tow.

Please note the return loops at the end are just temporary to try out the helix.










Guy