Walthers Cornerstone HO Scale Operating Single-Track Railroad Bascule Bridge Kit - 933-3070

Walthers Cornerstone HO Scale Operating Single-Track Railroad Bascule Bridge Kit - 933-3070 brings working railroad and marine operations together in one impressive layout centerpiece. Based on movable bridges used where busy rail lines cross navigable waterways, this detailed structure features a motorized single-track span that raises and lowers to clear passing vessels. The kit is listed at 33-1/2 x 3 x 11" (83.7 x 7.5 x 27.5cm), with Walthers currently listing the completed bridge span and approach at 34-1/4 x 3-1/4 x 11" (86 x 8.1 x 27.5cm). Browse the complete Walthers Cornerstone model railroad buildings and structures collection for more HO scale layout projects.

A bascule bridge uses a hinged movable span and counterweight to open for water traffic. This design requires less space than many other movable-bridge arrangements and can be raised quickly on a busy railroad. The Walthers model recreates the distinctive steel framework, massive counterweight, elevated bridge tender's shanty, and trackside interlocking tower associated with these installations. Its generous equipment clearance makes it suitable for scenes ranging from large steam locomotives to modern double-stack trains.

Add an Operating Bascule Bridge to an HO Scale Railroad

The Walthers Cornerstone Operating Single-Track Railroad Bascule Bridge combines animated operation with detailed structural components:

• HO scale operating single-track bascule bridge kit
• Based on movable railroad bridges used across busy waterways
• Motorized bridge span raises and lowers
• Low-speed motor and gear drive included
• Large concrete counterweight represents the prototype lifting assembly
• Detailed steel trusses, chords, cross sections, and rivet details
• Elevated bridge tender's shanty included
• Separate brick trackside interlocking tower included
• Provides clearance for contemporary tall railroad equipment
• Suitable for steam-era through modern railroad scenes
• Part of the Walthers Cornerstone Engineered Bridge System
• Designed for use with Walthers Code 83 Bridge Track, sold separately
• Can be combined with Walthers single-track concrete bridge abutments, sold separately
• Parts molded in two colors plus clear plastic
• Listed kit dimensions of 33-1/2 x 3 x 11" (83.7 x 7.5 x 27.5cm)

The included motor and gear drive allow the span to move at a realistic low speed, adding another operational sequence to the railroad. Trains can be held at signals while the bridge opens for marine traffic, then proceed after the span has returned to the track level. The adjacent interlocking tower can represent the control point responsible for coordinating bridge movement, signals, and railroad traffic.

This bridge can become the focal point of a harbor, river crossing, industrial waterfront, or urban rail corridor. Docks, tugboats, barges, warehouses, retaining walls, and shoreline scenery can be arranged around the crossing to create a convincing transportation scene. The bridge also offers an interesting transition between layout sections while giving trains a visually dramatic route across the water.

Walthers Code 83 Bridge Track is required to complete the railroad track across the span and is available separately. Single-track concrete abutments can also be added when integrating the structure into new or existing scenery. Careful planning of the waterway, approaches, electrical connections, and surrounding scenery will help preserve access to the operating mechanism after installation.

Expand Your Walthers Cornerstone Railroad Scene

The Operating Single-Track Railroad Bascule Bridge pairs naturally with Walthers Cornerstone railroad structures when developing a working main line, junction, or waterfront rail corridor. Additional buildings from the Walthers Cornerstone trackside structures collection can help complete the approaches and surrounding railroad property.

Industrial buildings from Walthers Cornerstone industrial structures can transform the nearby waterfront into a busy manufacturing, shipping, or warehouse district. Smaller components for adding utility equipment, railroad details, and surrounding infrastructure are available in Walthers Cornerstone accessories and details.

For assembling, painting, and weathering the bridge, browse Fusion Scale Hobbies' model railroad and hobby paint and model building glue and adhesives. Weathered steel tones, concrete colors, rust effects, and water stains can help integrate the completed bridge into its railroad and waterfront setting.