The gondola below is made
of 5/8" pressure treated plywood. I used treated lumber to
insure that it would last a long time without worrying about
rot. I used hardwood for the ribs and top molding. I found it
cheaper to buy one large hardwood piece and rip it to size. The
drawings should be self explanatory. I nailed and glued all
joints. I then used automotive body filler (bondo) for any
visible defects before painting. To protect the ends, I used
1-1/2" aluminum angle iron. For the frame, I used the design
from Tom Bee which uses a steel channel. The trucks, couplers
and brakes are also from Tom.
Below are pattern layouts
to assist in cutting out the material. As you can see, the
patterns are for two gondolas. Adjust as necessary.
Here's a few pictures
during construction.
