 | | Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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We all know that different LTCs around the world have different sized tables. NILTC uses 40x30, GPLR uses 30x60, IndyLUG uses 40x80, NBLTC uses 25x50, etc. There are previous more general discussions of train tables, e.g. (URL) interested in the (...) (20 years ago, 12-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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A few things : For several LOWLUG events we needed tables. In the end we settled for tables exactly 2*3 32*32 baseplates. Reason : these still go through a normal door and are still easily carried by one person. The legs are whatever you want, (...) (20 years ago, 12-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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Hello Thomas, Thank you for your interesting update on this everlasting point of table standardization. We are also seriously considering the standardization of tables for multi-participant presentations. Although it seems quite improbable that a (...) (20 years ago, 12-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org, FTX)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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In lugnet.trains.org, Philippe Label wrote: (snip) A quick note... If you go with 30 inches EXACTLY, your tables will be just a smidgeon too small to hold a 4x4 baseplate since they are not exactly 15 inches but rather just a little over. We went (...) (20 years ago, 12-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org, FTX)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) That's a typo. I mean 4 (nominal 15") 48 stud square baseplates, a 2x2 square of them, (or a 3x3 square of (nominal 10") 32 stud square baseplates)... Sorry for any confusion! (20 years ago, 12-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org, FTX)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) That's exactly what we've done: Use smaller modules, always. The standard in rtlToronto is 30.25x30.25", using the PNLTC standard. We use exclusively what I think they call a "half module", except its our regular size. Our "half" is actually a (...) (20 years ago, 12-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) [...] BayLTC has an assortment of different kinds of tables: mostly 30x60's, plus a few 30x45's, 30x30's, and 45x60's. We also have two 18x60 extenders which we bolt onto the sides of 30x60's to make 48x60 tables. Most of the tables have (...) (20 years ago, 12-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) SCLTC builds its own tables from 0.240 inch thick melamine coated hardboard and uses 1.910 inch diameter black ABS pipe for the legs. Both materials are cheap and readily available. The drawback to the hardboard is that it is not waterproof, (...) (20 years ago, 13-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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I have always been incredibly impressed by SCLTC tables. Heck, I am always impressed by SCLTC layouts, too. All custom-built tables are impressive to some degree. Here at LUCNY, us crazy New Yorkers discuss building our own tables regularly, but (...) (20 years ago, 13-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) We thought about that too, but decided we had to build custom tables or they might spread apart, causing derailments. How do you keep them together? Do you clamp them or something? (20 years ago, 13-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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(...) We don't do anything to secure the tables. We just position the tables where we want them and that is all. So far, we have never had a problem. If the tables move a little bit, we just give them a shove back in place. A few small table gaps (...) (20 years ago, 13-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) The NBLTC has adopted a modular approach using 80 studs wide x 160 studs long standard table (module) size. This works for us but the overall design allows for a multitude of arrangements and optional sizes within the modular concept. (...) (...) (20 years ago, 13-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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Here is what NELUG uses. Most of our tables are 40.25" x 40.25" or 4x4 32x32 baseplates. The extra .25" is to account for the fact that the baseplates are not exactly 10" square but ever so slightly larger. We also use some 40.25" x 20.125". Finally (...) (20 years ago, 13-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) Kevin- I agree totally that making tables is -- or can be -- a lot of work. If all we ever did with the tables was set them up at matching heights at a show and then lay LEGO on them, it would definitely NOT be worth it. What does make it (...) (20 years ago, 13-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) I should point out that at SCLTC, we initially provided spring clamps for temporary connection ($0.99 each) or until bolts were installed, but decided that they really were not necessary. We use wing nuts and just fasten the bolts finger (...) (20 years ago, 13-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org, FTX)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) Kevin- That's an unsolved problem for us that gets worse when we are in a hurry and as the layout gets larger. When we are not rushed, we losen the bolts a little and jiggle things until the square tables just fall into place. For our current (...) (20 years ago, 13-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) Funny you should mention that. I just bought 6 of that very type of banquet table for the traveling TCLTC layout yesterday ($41 each from Costco). I really like these tables and am excited about using them. I should also say that we've also (...) (20 years ago, 13-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org, FTX)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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The GMLTC uses 40"x60" plywood tables with custom-built aluminum frames underneath and heavy-duty folding legs. Some pros and cons: - Pro: Plenty of room! After we trashed our last layout, we consciously decided to build "larger" this time: 8-wide (...) (20 years ago, 14-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) Hi all, I did use the measure of 30 and 7/32nds, with gives us 767,55625 millimeters, and rounded them up to 768mm. This is indeed a bit too much, because we got also problems with bridges (96 studs long) mounted on a table 30 bricks below the (...) (20 years ago, 14-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Train Table Height [was: Discussion of Train Table Sizes]
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(...) To the best of my knowledge, no. General model railroading practice seems to be 36 inches. Some LTCs use this height. Most clubs of which I know use 30 inches (this is the nominal height of banquet tables, and easily achieved with standard (...) (20 years ago, 15-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) I sub-contracted this to a model railway board builder. The boards I have ATM cost £26.80 each plus £9.90 per double leg, and I have 20 of each. This came to £742, a considerable investment! Add to this sneeze guards made from 14 pieces of (...) (20 years ago, 15-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) I'm surprised you would use inches as your base measurement, since you are based in Europe. Why didn't you just use the simple formula 1 stud = 8 mm? (20 years ago, 16-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) Sorry, two questions - First, model railway clubs pay you to hire a van? How does that work? Why would they pay you? Second, did you realize that while some enlightened Americans may have heard of a Ford Transit, they've probably never seen (...) (20 years ago, 16-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) The standard thing for UK model railway exhibitions is that the organisers pay travelling expenses (i.e. van hire and petrol (gas)) within reason and normally provide lunch for exhibitors. (Traders of course have to pay to be there) (...) A (...) (20 years ago, 16-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) Sprinters come in short and long wheelbase versions as well as in low and high roof versions (so you get 4 possible cubics, plus all the door and window options). I bet the long wheelbase Transit is about the same capacity, or perhaps smaller, (...) (20 years ago, 16-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) As a matter of interest, and linked to this subkect, do the US train clubs hold shows/events where every member turns up with a few modules and scenery straight from their homes, rather than holding all the tables/lego in one place? (...) (20 years ago, 16-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) Great question, and one that I might have some insight on, since I am on a number of different club mailing lists. The answer is "it depends". I would say that the majority of clubs do not practice setup in advance but just turn up on the day. (...) (20 years ago, 16-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) At a UK model railway exhibition the layouts are what draw the public in, making gate money, so layout exhibitors are paid van hire and fuel expenses (reimbursed on production of receipts) and are provided with lunch each day (usually (...) (20 years ago, 16-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) (snip) (...) Thanks Larry. I happen to think we are working too hard but for most of us, the challenge of building something new and interesting was just as much fun as presenting and exhibiting. My preference is now for a more permanent build (...) (20 years ago, 17-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) Yes, that's similar to how it's done in the US, except that here they just pay a predetermined flat appearance fee to each participating club rather than trying to pay actual expenses. We don't get lunch though. What puzzled me was the (...) (20 years ago, 20-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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(...) True. But this varies by region, in some regions GATS is not the only show organizer. For example, MichLTC does more shows (by a wide margin) that are put on and organized by local clubs, than shows put on by GATS. And in the case of a local (...) (20 years ago, 20-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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(...) I see. I'm surprised though that you only seem to be considering hired vans. Don't ordinary citizens own vans or small trucks in the UK? We transport our tables to shows in the van belonging to one of our members (Bruce Chamberlain) - a late (...) (20 years ago, 20-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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(...) Plenty of people do own their own vans, but they don't seem to be Lego fans! They are normally full of rubbish/builders tools and dirt as well! You don't get many pickups, only builders really seem to have them. However people carriers (...) (20 years ago, 20-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) It is the always the case in the UK, there is no equivalent to GATS. Some of the local clubs do put on national size and quality shows but they do (and can do) this purely because they have a large membership and a willing and active (...) (20 years ago, 20-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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| | Re: Discussion of Train Table Sizes
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(...) Waverly springs to mind, as does the York show (to which I have been once :). IMREX used to be the big show in London, but I think I am dating myself by saying so...I think Waverly is now the biggest single show. There are shows put on by (...) (20 years ago, 20-Dec-04, to lugnet.trains.org)
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