How to build an observatory – part2
Project steps in approximate order needed to complete by end of August 2012 xxx make that September 8th, 2012.
Life gets in the way of hobbies… always has always will.
1. measure out rails,blocks. – done
2. lay down gravel and then deck blocks. – done
*turned out using a full bag of gravel on each block
3. place deck blocks – done
4. place 2x6x8 rails and level deck blocks, measure for parallel -done
5. attach rails with plates – done
* rails not stable enough so added two 2×4 supports between rails to stabilize under load. then added four more. It is now stable!
6. build 5×8 platform frame. -done
7. add 3/4 plywood to platform frame. -done
8. cut out gap area for pier -done
* built trap doors to allow for movement, mismeasured- built again.
9. mount four wheel supports – done
* trick to align wheels worked out well – used a 2x4x8′ to make both wheels on a side parallel.
10. Add rail end blocks to stop building from rolling off track. -done
There were 2×4 blocks (actually only 1.5″ high) Then added
another set to make it 3″ high. Once the heavy massive building gets rolling, we do not want it to jump the stop!
12. Mount platform and test rolling. -done Built some 1″x6″ boards with slots mount near the wheels to keep the wheels on the rails with the rails fitting into the slots. Total failure. The
platform came off the rails, literally.
Redesigned and put 2×4’s on the outside of the rail, about 1.5″ high. That keeps the wheels on!
13. build two long (8′) side walls using 2×3 top and bottom plates, 16″ on center. double up end studs-done
In summary, there has been a lot of stoppages, blockages and workarounds already. The next step is to add the plywood to the long wall frames, built the end wall and then wait for the metal roof to arrive. Also to build the strong doors.
Doors are always tough. These will be two 2’x7′ doors made of 1/2″ plywood. The circumference on the outside will be 2x4s with another horizontal support across the middle about 3.5″ up where the lock will attach. The outside 2×4’s will be hinged to the door frame, double 2×4’s.
I don’t think the 3 walls will go up until everything is ready. We get a lot of winds and rain and without a roof, everything will soak and the winds may very well blow the whole building away.
Still need lockdown systems and wind hold down external ties of some type.
The building platform in the open position, full 5’x8′ floor to work in
The building platform in the closed position