New storage sidings coaching stock

13 August 2025

After long deliberation as to where I could site some storage sidings for my coaches; I decide to expand the site adjacent to Westernhills MPD. 2x 4 foot by 6 inch boards were constructed and fitted to the main board.  Due to the mini heat wave work was suspended at 14:15 

14 August 2025

 Work restarted at 10:30 on the storage sidings first a cut though the rails where the new turnout will fit; then a liberal spray of water to soften the glued ballast; with the track pins removed the old track is lifted. I cut the rail slightly under size to enable me to fettle the new turnout into position.  Next job is to clear the debris from the base board and test fit the turnout I had to remove a small amount of rail to ensure a neat fit. Holes are marked for the point motor actuating pin and for the frog wire.

17 August 2025

 Turnout fitted and Cobalt iP Digital motor fitted wired and tested; a power buss fitted to new section holes for droppers drilled. 

19 August 2025

After a pause its still 30c 41% humidity in the loft I laid the 1^st 4 foot of track. Wired up the turnout in the siding to a DPST switch and laid the remaining track.

With the entire track laid cut at the 4 foot board joint all was left was to ballast. Ballasting was completed and glued with 50% PVA; and left to dry overnight.20 August 2025

Vacuumed up Excessive ballast before I air brushed a light coat of black acrylic paint to darken and stain the track and ballast; 

Continuing with the landscaping by blending static grass. Work on hold whist I get fresh supplies of static grass.

31 August 2025

Continuing on with the landscaping with a new batch of static grass 4mm Wild Meadow, 6mm Wild Meadow and 6mm Autumn Mix a smattering of soil (dried teabag) and ballast shows though. a small Ratio hut with the front remove conceals the point switch. All that is needed now is suitable ‘junk’ for set dressing LOL.