Helix platform construction Day One

I got started on the helix platform in the garage today.  It's a job in itself because the top of the platform is over 5 feet off the ground.  I had to build a decent frame for it.  They were not kidding when they say helix are a space hog.  This thing is about 7' by 6'.  A lot bigger than I wanted in the garage.  Guess it is too late to go back?  With the day off tomorrow, I hope to complete it.  I went to the Home Depot late last night for some lumber but had to return this afternoon for more lumber and screws.  I believe I might have to return again.  I'm using 2X3's for the frame and MDF 3/4" board for the top.  I will keep the middle open to observe/clean the helix.  Shelves will be under the helix size since I lost a ton of space in the garage.

The space I'll be working with.  The door leads to the layout now.

My office has some work done it too.  My work desk will be replaced with a smaller one.

Some beginnings of the framework.

Cameron helped me out a lot today.  Looks like I'm building a loft in the garage!

As far as I got tonight.  Should be able to finish tomorrow, I hope.

First How to video: Installing a TCS Keep Alive capacitor in a Tsunami sound decoder

Installed a TCS Keep Alive capacitor and decided to do a how to video on it.  Several videos later it's done.  I also decided today to do some scenery on the layout.  Did the ground cover on the former wood chip loading spur on the VC.  That will be an extra storage track and occasional team track.  Pics of this later.

Messy work desk syndrome

Some people do their modeling on a work bench.  I do mine on a work desk.  A work bench is something you have your tools on in the garage!  Anyways, is it me or is keep your work desk clean hard or what?  This evening, I cleaned it of pretty good.  I had a few items I wanted to finish up,  So, I cleaned it off pretty much.  Got my little bit of work in and boom!  Its a mess again and that's the way I left it until tomorrow.  Now, I got a question.  If we cleaned up at the end of the day or a project, would be get more stuff done?  Probably!

My main work desk.  Being organized helps me big time and this was something I did about 5-6 years ago.  Labels help you find stuff faster.  But being organized doesn't keep the desk clean!

Side desk.  This area seems to collect overflow from the main desk.  The On30 layout is above this area  and HO engines are even on it.

New shot I'm using for the blog now.  These are my main engines for the VM on the layout.  There are a few missing but the "Red Baron" CF-7 makes an appearance behind the tree.