Comments on: Plaster Crumbling on Rails Inside Tunnel

By: James Vinski

James Vinski — Sat, 11 Jan 2020 22:32:09 +0000

When I made my O-gauge tunnel I used the “bread and butter” method, namely multiple sheets of 1″ thick styrofoam, instead of plaster, stacked and glued to each other. I glued the bottom layer to a 3 foot square piece of sheet metal to set right on top of the platform. With no luxury of having a permanent space, I wanted a light item easy to move, install and store. I painted the insides a dark color and have never worried about flaking and falling pieces in the inside. I used a Surfoam “plane” to shape the top and sides. Since my theme is winter the white styrofoam was perfect as a base to stick trees in anywhere I chose. It’s been stored in my garage for years and has been fine.

By: Sheldon Clark

Sheldon Clark — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 22:55:20 +0000

In reply to David Stokes. I like this one!

By: David Stokes

David Stokes — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 01:10:54 +0000

If you can access the whole tunnel then paint it with gloss paint (any old house paint will do) Mix up all your left overs and with luck it will end up a dark muddy colour – just ideal.

As this was your Dad’s layout, and it looks like it’s going on to future generations why not take this opportunity to rip out the old tunnel and build a new one? That way you get hands on modelling experience, no more plaster falling on the tracks and a new look.

By: Robert

Robert — Wed, 08 Jan 2020 23:46:21 +0000

A PERMENANT SOLUTION WOULD BE TO PUT A LAYER OF FIBREGLASS MATTING AND RESIN ON THE INSIDE OF THE TUNNEL.

By: Ramhog Ho Trains

Ramhog Ho Trains — Wed, 08 Jan 2020 23:16:58 +0000

In reply to Frank B. I would paint the inside what a gross paint. because lining it with card broad ur cars might hit the liner..

By: Peter Cawthorne

Peter Cawthorne — Wed, 08 Jan 2020 22:51:05 +0000

I would suggest using thin card as an inner shell inside the tunnel. I have done this and it solved the problem of the plaster flaking off.

By: Frank B

Frank B — Wed, 08 Jan 2020 22:43:23 +0000

This is a totally bad practice when building a layout with plaster ! NEVER have plaster above tracks, it will always crumble and cause problems !

I suggest covering the tracks with paper or cloth, then painting or varnishing the plaster inside the tunnel with . . . just about anything that will stick to it and not crumble.

Alternatively, you could put a thin cardboard lining inside the tunnel to keep the plaster off the track.