MILLBROOK PARK SIDE FRICTION static roller coaster model

Here's a basic look at the layout. That's a tree, not a scrap heap :)

1/20/02 Here is the layout diagram on the base. The edges are routered and have a ridge to give the scenery a clean barrier.

This is a sample of the completed side friction track and car. The car alone is made from 23 pieces of styrene and balsa.

Various angles of the car. The wheels are plastic washer halves.

2/10/02 Here the lift is beginning to take shape. Drawings are made (left) which are used as guides for the length and spacing of each support. An H.O. scale ruler is used to accurately measure and cut each piece so they remain in scale. Crossbeams and ledgers (the thicker boards that directly support the track) are cut and added to supports to create vertical bents, which form a cross-section of the track. The bents are connected by horizontal cords (thin strips of wood or plastic) and then again diagonally. As you can see there are three tracks side by side, so many of the bents in the middle have 3 sections to them.

-

2/20/02 Materials shown here make the job go a lot quicker. Shown from top: a carpenter's square for getting precise 90º angles, a hobby saw with miter box (for precise, clean cuts), a balsa stripper, and chopper board. I use the stripper to make my strips from wood and plastic sheets, which are a lot cheaper than pre-cut strips. The chopper board can be set to any length, and is used to quickly cut multiple pieces of similar length. Great for track ties and crossbracing! Note the ruler on the right, helpful when lining up straightaways.

3/04/02 The first turn. The smaller track will turn within the structure and make its way back to the station.

The coaster as seen from behind the first turn. Note the operating Jet Flyer to the right.......awaiting further assembly. Hopefully that giant fan won't turn my work into toothpicks!

Here's a neat silhouette I just had to grab.....

The first turn is now done, leaving just the station and last 2 dips. Note the scenery tests on the upper left.

A closeup of the crossovers underneath the first turn. Confused yet? :).

Bird's eye view from above the second turn.

10/28/02 The station being constructed. A heavy paper stock is used for the panels, and that is glued to basswood supports. Computer printed decals will resemble the decor on the station.

An interior view of the station, showing the flooring and track under construction. Note the side rail braces attached to each support post. Nearly 200 of these were cut from latch hook grid material.

The road and side rails being installed. The car fits too. :)

The lake is layers of acrylic medium. It will dry clear, and brush marks make great waves.

Here the station awaits decor and handrailing.

The completed model from above.

3/4 view.

A train ascends the lift.

Looking up at the first turn.

Flying through the first dip. Better hang onto their hats!

Navigating the 2nd turnaround.

Picnicers enjoy the pond and shade.

Another view of the pond.

-

Compare this with the original pic at right. It was great to stand where the real thing did years ago......thanks for viewing.