Taming the Helix


This section refers to the Corkscrew-Lines mk1 which is now dismantled.  This section will be updated as the mk2 version is constructed.


The Helix is the beast that sits at the heart of the Corkscrew Lines and allows trains to travel up and down between the 4 levels.  This is a photo gallery showing the process involved in it's construction.  Full full details of the thinking and construction techniques used see the individual posts.  When finished and linking all levels it will be 6ft tall.

 Up and down and round the bend......the story of my life!

How things currently look
Currently the helix makes 5 turns between the low level storage area and the peninsula on level 2 which is the first of the scenic areas.  Have a look at the plans for the layout to get an idea for where the tracks go and how they interact with each other.  From the earliest template boards to the installation of the threaded rods, the following photos show the general process and system used.  For full details, as stated above, check the individual posts in the blog.























4 comments:

  1. Phil26 September 2013 at 09:26

    Greetings Corky from New Zealand. Awesome site and slowly making my way through the mist. Interesting approach to the helix...what is the gap that one's atheletic body slides under to access this mastery OR is there a secret entry/exit point.
    Like the elongated approach and multi level layout...have similar thoughts when my tired old bones tire walking into the garage loft and I move down stairs...hopefully not too soon. Keep up the good work and look forward to future installemnts!
    Kind regards. Phil Taylor

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    Replies
    1. Unknown7 November 2013 at 20:15

      Hi Phil, apologies it's taken me so long to respond. I have answered your questions within Update No.44 published today. Best regards, Corky.

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  2. Unknown12 January 2015 at 17:43

    Hello, Wow I was just searching the interwebs for model railway stuff and well, your design does leave one drooling lol. Mine will also be in the garage but unfortunately only a single one so space is of an issue so I was also considering multiple levels. I have a quick question about the helix though, Do you have any issues with the steam loco's ascending it? (as we all know steam loco's are the worst for them) and also what are the dimensions of it?

    Thanks, Michael

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  3. Unknown19 January 2015 at 17:23

    Hi Michael, apologies it has taken me a while to respond...only just saw your question today. The helix shown in the photos has actually now been dismantled and will be replaced with a revised design for the Mk2 version of the layout. The original helix was 9ft x 4ft and all of my Pacific steamers could climb it with 7-8 coaches. Smaller locos struggled with more than 4-5 coaches. The new helix design will be round and not oval and will incorporate DCC Concepts "Powerbase" which should allow even the smallest steam locos to climb with ease. Hope that helps...Corky!

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