Wow

Backsaver groundthrows

Dear Nevin, Joe,

The "Backsaver" (sometimes referred to as "Bow type" or "Bow Tie") handle
is an OSHA style add-on to the modern era low-profile "ground throw" switch-machine installation.

I've always felt odd about the TXRail backsaver handles, as they are asymetrical in shape,
presumably to fit pairs on a squarish piece of brass and not-waste material...

whereas the prototypes I've been able to quickly/commonly find appear quite obviously symmetrical (see above),
and more like the ones crafted by that doyen of details, Tony Sissions...

https://tonysissons.zenfolio.com/p669006663

So, now we know what "backsaver handles" are, what about those "Micro Engineering HO switchstands"?

(Wow...zooming in that close really isn't flattering...
...painting something black and then applying judicious weathering hides a multitude of... well...)

Anywho.... let's isolate the bit that we're interested in,...

...and I'd suggest the first move would be to carve/file/mill/saw away the cast-on "handle"
(highlighted in Red)

From there, it should be a simple matter of gluing the brass TXRail handle in position
(Thankfully both the handle and ME casting are NON-operating details),

and, if you're particularly keen, one could drill horizontally into the base of the casting,
so a length of brass wire or maybe a PECO SL14 trackpin can be used as a mechanical reinforcement of the joint...

...OR as a method of animation-driving the Backsaver handle, IF one was soo inclined...
(the actual turnout-throw and motion would need to be via some other undertable mech,
unsure how to translate the turnout throwbar sideways slide motion to horizontal rotation motion, 
but Model RRers are an inventive bunch...   ).

Of course, it will depend on your precision carving of the cast-handle as to how-much of the "handle lock" nubs are left, if indeed they are close-enough together to make sense against the thin-ness of the new brass-etch handle...

I hope this helps...

Happy Modelling,
Aim to Improve,
Prof Klyzlr

PS if you're looking for a finer-detail non-operating HO groundthrow,
I'd reccomend checking out the Racor 20c low-profile casting in plastic by Rapido...
(available as a set of details in the "Railcrew Switch Stand Kit",
do not need to purchase the whole "Railcrew Switch Machine" kit!)

That was exactly what I was looking for.

Thank you.  I was afraid it might involve some filing on those small castings.  They don't look too back after they are painted but they are not up to today's standards.  I'm looking into the Rapido Racor 20 as a potential substitute.  

Much better, thanks.