Trackbed

Back in Spring 2009, the creation of Homestyal Light Railway began.  Here follows the method that I used for the construction of the trackbed.

Most of my garden is relatively level so building the track bed wasn't too difficult as it only had to vary between two to four inches above the existing terrain.

Using LGB R3 (16000) curves and straight sections as templates I was able to construct the trackbed with tanalised decking planks supported on light weight breeze blocks positioned at regular intervals.

Most sections of curve were represented by two R3 (16000) pieces whereas each straight section was made from various lengths, all divisible by 300mm (10000).

Once the decking planks were in position each individual section was covered in heavy grade mineral roofing felt. This would both protect the wood from the elements and provide an initial surface for the track to adhere to prior to the ballast being laid. 

Mineral felt laid, daffodils re-located and completion of the home loop.

The track bed was fitted with a 95mm x 6mm uPVC edging strip which would provide additional protection to the wood, allow future cabling to be routed and form a boundary for the 20mm green slate chippings. The strip sits approx 8mm above the felt (same height as the sleepers), which will allow for ballast (grit) to be laid in between and around the sleepers whilst preventing the ballast from spreading. 

Before the chippings were put down a weed barrier membrane was laid to prevent weeds from re-appearing. The slate depth varies between 50mm and 80mm. In the foreground are small Boxus plants which in time will form a dwarf hedge. 

With the laying of the chippings complete - the home loop awaits the introduction of ornamental grasses and monoliths and of course, HOMEstyal Halt Station. 

Ornamental grasses, monoliths and a temporary location for HOMEstyal Halt Station complete the construction of the home loop.

Billy Radio Control - Stage 2b

With the Radio Control equipment fitted, setting and adjustment of the regulator is best achieved with the locomotive 'in steam' and on blocks to raise the wheels off the ground.

Once full working pressure is raised, the transmitter and receiver were both switched on.

The regulator arm was adjusted until the transmitters 'stick' was in the half way position as the wheels began to rotate.

The movement and settings of all linkages can be seen in the above video.

Billy Radio Control - Stage 2a

The receiver was first fitted underneath the cab floor and all wires connected.

Then the linkages and adjustments were made to connect both the regulator and reversing mechanisms to their respective servos.

Fine tuning of the regulator is now required and for this, a full working pressure was raised.

Next stage, the replacement of the cab with a battery box fitted to the underside of the roof.

Billy Radio Control - Stage 1

Before commencing the fitting of the radio control components, the cab had to be removed. In addition to the R/C components, the Roundhouse Fittings Only kit HBK12 was used.

A Hitec HS81 Micro servo was first fitted for the operating of the Walschaerts valve-gear. This was mounted to two brass posts where originally the manual reversing lever was positioned.  The horn and linkage was not fitted at this time.

The regulator servo was then fitted to the bracket on the right hand side of the foot plate. (Fitted during the body stage.) Again, a Hitec HS81 Micro servo without the horn and linkage was fitted.

A switch harness was then fitted to the rear of the foot plate using the cut out provided.










Next stage, fitting and adjusting linkages.