This week, I have some images of a tunnel lining I built for Spruce Creek Tunnel. The tunnel is curved, and the outside of the curve abuts the aisleway. In order to obtain access to the tunnel, I built two curved walls that can be opened like cabinet doors.
The first image shows the wall framing for one of the two doors adjacent to the tracks. A small caster supports the near end of the door, keeps it in position vertically, and allows it to be pulled out of place while resting on the benchwork. The opposite wall is fixed in place:
The next image shows the framed wall opened up by means of a hinge.
Then, I installed the liner which is made of 1/8” Masonite® and is shown here being held in place with clamps prior to be permanently attached with flat head screws. This photo was taken from the opposite side. Note the hinges that allow the door to open:
Here you can see it back in the closed position with the lining installed and now painted black. Compare this image to the first picture in the post:
The next image shows both the doors in place and closed:
This picture shows both of the doors slightly open. These doors allow easy access to the tunnel in case of a derailment and to clean the track:
And finally, here are two shots showing a few of the first trains through the tunnel after the lining project was completed:
Next, I’ll be installing the plywood above the tunnel topped by one or two layers of 2” thick pink foam. It will then be rough cut with a hot wire foam cutter and then carved to create the scenery above the tunnel.
That’s it for this week!
