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Build
a Portable Transformer Table The plans for a portable transformer table are outlined here. The table is designed to accommodate two MTH Z4000's. |
One of the main goals of our modular layout is keeping the setup and take down times to a minimum. To that end we use portable transformer tables that can be attached to any of our layout's basic modules. This article details plans for building a portable transformer table large enough for two MTH Z4000's. Construction uses simple butt joints and requires only basic tools and carpentry skills. While a table and redial arm saw are helpful this project can be completed using a drill, jigsaw, and hand saw. I highly recommend against using nails for this project. You'll have much better results by using screws. Drill countersunk pilot holes to avoid splintering. The table is held to the layout with "C" clamps. While I've
seen it used with narrower frames, the table was designed to be attached to
modules with frames constructed from 1" x 4" stock. |
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STEP 1 Cut out the table pieces. Figure 1 shows the table parts and dimensions. All board dimensions are given in finished/actual measurements. All boards are 3/4" thick. There is no need to use expensive lumber for this project, basic pine boards work just fine. The two 3" x 5" rectangles shown on the table back are holes for the wires to pass through. Note: The table is built using a 12" wide (11 1/2" finished size) board for the back, sides and base (actual lumber dimensions are less than the hardware store reference size). If the finished width of the 12" wide boards that your hardware store sells is different than 11 1/2", substitute that width anywhere the plans call for 11 1/2". |
| STEP 2 Attach one of the sides to the back as shown in Figure 2. The side should be located 1 1/2" in form the edge of the back. Angle clamps are very useful for completing this step. |
| STEP 3 Attach the base to the side and back. The bottom of the base should be even with the lower edges of the side and back. |
| STEP 4 Attach the second side to the bottom and back. |
| STEP 5 Attach the front and top railings as shown in Figure 5. The top railing should overhang behind the table back about 1 1/2". The overhang forms a lip that supports the weight of the table. |
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At this point you can finish the table. Sand any rough edges and paint or stain your table as desired. To attach the table to the layout:
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Copyright 2000 by Ted Rabusseau. All rights reserved. You may reproduce this article for your own personal, non-commercial use. If you would like to use any part or version of this article including text or images on your web site, you may do so, providing that you notify the author and place a link back to The Crescent Model Railroaders homepage (http://www.trainweb.org/hi_railers). If you want to use any part or version of this article including text or images in any other form of publication, you must have the prior written permission of the author. |
