As a result of my constant attempts to cut down on the space that the layout takes up in the car I have come up with another plan but there may be one overriding problem that I would appreciate some opinions on.

The trestles that I have been using - all five of them - are currently 27 inches wide and the layout is only 18. The result is and awkward protrusion at each side which I keep catching myself on and which means that the skirt to hide them has to stick out rather ridiculously. And of course I am carting around extra metal I don't need. The following picture should explain my plan.

The first and simplest thing (apart from the tube is an inch and a quarter), will be to cut off the two inch overhang at each end at point A. Down to 23 inches.

Second thing would be to take 5 inches out of both cross members at point B and weld up again. I would probably fit a sleeve of steel over the join to aid the strength. I do have a very dusty MIG welder at the back of the garage so could do this myself or I could talk to tame local fabricator.

Lastly, the other two cross pieces would need cutting down at point C - much easier as much thinner metal here.

Actually, not quite lastly, as the bolts on which the layout actually sits would need repositioning but there will be just enough room for this.

So, all quite feasible but will a base of just 18 inches be sufficient to prevent a twenty odd foot long layout toppling over? This problem being exacerbated by me liking the layout almost four foot off the ground. Views and any experience of such things would be most appreciated as it will all be a bit late once I have hacked them up!