Hello everyone. I'm building a 2'x3' O14 layout using RCL track
components and rolling stock. Based on the Weydon Hill sand
operation shown in the RCL Handbook, I've made one adjustment by
moving the larry tip siding to be prominent in the front of the
layout and plan to make it similar to that of the Bedford Silica
company as shown on the cover of Leleux' recent rolling stock book.
Track to the pit will disappear into a tunnel to hidden staging.
To put a wrinkle into it, the whole operation is in Argentina, with
the SG railroad interchange replaced with a 75cm siding that will
hold two bogie opens of the Patagonian Express. To mimic practices
found along that line, the overbridge will be of welded channel
components, the engine house is planned to be of discarded ties, and
the weigh office in corrugated iron. Anathema to traditionalists,
I'm sure, but I've wanted to model the Patagonian desert for some
time.
I've created an Argentine sand layout folder in the Files which has
a photo showing benchwork and track arrangement. Progress since the
photo includes three switches now nearly complete (working on
throwbar components) and the weigh bridge installed--but progress is
incredibly slow at this time. I'll take this opportunity to beg Roy
to develop a fret with throwbar components as these are tedious to
craft and his look so much better than mine!
Dave Eggleston
Seattle, Washington USA
