Ho scale graph paper maker how to#
Ho scale graph paper maker software#

(See image 1 and 2) I transferred from my notes the accurate measurements of height on both sides and drew the existing benchwork into the drawing, and then I spaced them the appropriate width apart in the diagram. With notepad and pencil in hand I took all the measurements with my tape measure that I could. It was important to me in keeping the benchwork level throughout the span between the spaces where the swing gate would be placed.

Ho scale graph paper maker software#

However, any CAD drawing software or even some good quality graph paper and some sharp pencils and scale rulers will do the job too.īefore I began the swing gate design I found out that the left side of the benchwork was about 1/16” too high, so to make them both level I lowered that side of the benchwork. Using 3 rd PlanIt track planning software I created an accurate scale drawing (see Figure 2) of the proposed swing gate, and using measurements that I took included the height on both sides of the aisle and the aisle way width at the top level of the benchwork. After reading Hoover’s article I began formulating plans for a swing gate, and he gave me the jump start to move forward with tackling the problem of crossing the aisle way.

Ho scale graph paper maker how to#

I just knew that I needed the track to cross the aisle at that particular location in the track plan, how to get it done was still an option. What follows in this tutorial is my step by step approach to solving one of the major hurdles that hindered further progress on my layout.Ī Plan of Action In my original track plan (see Figure 1) I have the aisle way track represented as a bridge, but I had not formalized the means of creating it in the form of a duck under, lift up section, or swing gate.

So I set out to study what I could and what it would take to build my own swing gate. Inspired by the article ' Build a swinging gate for easy access' ( ) by Gary Hoover published in the April 2007 issue of Model Railroader, I took the ideas in the piece and applied it to what was already my own accepted wisdom in tackling my layout design dilemma. After reading this piece of writing however, I felt it was missing more detail, and that I was left empty handed, or wanting to know more. Introductory video (click play to watch video) An alternative to the duck under - Part I