The benchwork at Williamsport was the last bit of benchwork made with recycled material, and it was showing its age. Warped and uneven, which caused no amount of track issues. Combined with the UV deteriorating ties, it needed a complete rebuild. So this weekend I pulled up the track, disassembled the benchwork, and pondered. Here are a couple views showing what I could salvage, and a brick outline of the area for the new benchwork.

Not much to see yet, but its a start. Next up is building the new benchwork.

Don’t you have to build a pond for that tug?

Bruce Chandler said:

Don’t you have to build a pond for that tug?

No

I expect the tug will float on imaginary water, much like the car ferry. Good luck with the new bench Bob.

Could be that he’s going to let the dogs dig the pond…(http://www.largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-foot-in-mouth.gif)

My dogs would be glad to dig anything - even places where it would be a disaster!!

Andrew, and that is why my dog is on a wire leash attached to one of the big screw in thingies, it keeps him from digging up my railroad, and my mom’s flowers.

A bit of digging, and some of the benchwork in place. The rest of the benchwork should happen this weekend.

Ahhhhhh, progress… (http://www.largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-cool.gif)

Andy Clarke said:

Ahhhhhh, progress… (http://www.largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-cool.gif)

I know, it doesnt involve a tractor and several thousand wall blocks, but you have that covered for us, Andy.

Looking good Bob.

Tractors are overrated, Wheelbarrows are really where it’s at. Looking much more sturdy than the old bench-work, and the posies on either side look untouched. (try that using a tractor) (http://www.largescalecentral.com/externals/tinymce/plugins/emoticons/img/smiley-wink.gif)

Between the heat and short weekend vacations, I havent had much time to work on Williamsport. I have the next couple of weeks mostly free, so tonight I did a bit of benchwork.

and from the other end

Another couple of hours and it’ll be ready for stain.

Ahhh, heat & humidity… What a lovely combination… NOT!!!

Work looks good, Bob…

Your progress is good especially considering the heat and humidity we have been having.

Is that 5 quarter decking material you are using or 2x6 PT. I was always worried that decking material would “cup” and cause problems so I have used plywood but of course that has a much shorter life span than wood.

Yep, 5/4 PT, with the grain curved down so the grain sheds water and not pool it. Combined with some decent quality deck stain, it has a great lifespan.

with the grain curved down good point Bob.

Got some track down today before the rain washed things out

And from the other way

And a bit further back.

That looks good and should resolve that pesky switch entering Williamsport form the ferry end.

Party at BD’s in a few weeks !

called it

Edit to say: I want a keg stand pic at Williamsport