Layout Update - January 2019: Panels Operational, Flextrack & Switch Details, Continuing Fascia...

Here's what we've been up to over the past month: Points East staging loop switch control panel completed. Same wiring as the other one. 8 tortoise switch machines with a DPDT switch and 2 LEDs for each. 5 SPST switches with 2 LEDs each for track power to each of the 5 staging tracks. Trains can now be shutdown and left electrically isolated when sitting in staging. I used an old chunk of Ethernet wire for the tortoise power, 26 AWG. I ran an extra 120VAC plug on the layout power circuit to the vicinity. The tortoises are powered by an old camcorder charger transformer, 12VDC and around 1 amp. Super detailing the flex track with Precision Design Co. joint bars. I used the 4 bolt code 55 version for the yard tracks, spaced every 39 scale feet. I also got some of the code 70, six bolt variety and put them at the joints where the turnouts meet the code 70 passing siding. The code 83 mainline is welded rail so no joint bars were added to it. Added the details from the Micro Engineering switch packages to the 6 code 70 #6 turnouts in the yard. Next up will be to paint the track a grimy steel colour with my airbrush. Fasica started. With the completion of the points east staging loop control panel, I was able to continue on with Fascia. Approximately 45% of the layout is done. The 1/4'' hard board is installed level on the bottom using a laser level and then I jigsaw the top profile of it to follow the contour of the terrain. I use Elmers ultimate polyurethane glue and 3/4'' brad nails to secure the hardboard to the benchwork. Thanks for watching!