02/16/2023

THE GOAL

For many years now, I have wanted to build a mock grade crossing signal in my backyard. The problem is, parts are hard to come by, and when they do come up, they are typically expensive.  My goal is to build a realistic-looking grade crossing mast signal from as many salvaged and recycled parts as possible.

TWO LUCKY FINDS

While driving home from a mechanic earlier this week, I got really lucky and spotted a 10-foot-long piece of PVC piping sitting on the side of the road near the entrance to my neighborhood. Upon getting out of the truck, it was clear that the pipe was discarded there. The pipe happened to be 4" in diameter, the exact size for a gateless grade crossing mast! Needless to say, it came home that afternoon. 

The next order of business was devising a way to anchor the PVC pipe to the ground. Most grade crossing signals have a base that is directly bolted into a concrete foundation, but that is not an option in my situation. I want the signal to be minimally invasive and easy to remove when I inevitably move in some years' time. After pondering some ideas, I decided that a standard fence post cemented into the ground would make for a good support structure. From there, the post would be shimmed down and the PVC pipe snugly shrouded over it. 

This is where I got really lucky again. My next-door neighbors were having their fence re-done, resulting in an abundance of old wood posts ready for repurposing. Upon returning home the next day, the fence company next door was loading up the old fence pieces to truck them off. My limited Spanish knowledge came in handy in this case as I was able to score a free fence post. It's a little knarly and needs some screws and nails removed, but it will get the job done. 

WHERE IS IT AT NOW?

Most recently, for unrelated reasons, my storage location for signal equipment came under scrutiny and had to be moved to be within my small backyard. It is currently in disarray with signals and signs everywhere. I was able to confirm that my set of crossing lights will indeed fit on the mast, though. The next step will be a run to Home Depot for some fence post concrete mix. I hope to have a post in the ground within the next couple of weeks. Stay tuned.