Trackwork
Modifying Fast Tracks Bullfrog Manual Turnout Control for Smaller Scales
I have found that the Switch Wire supplied in the package is way too stiff and strong for small scale turnouts, and applies too much force to the rails and ties, often leading to broken solder joints on hand laid turnouts.
SO, I experimented a little and came up with a very simple solution to the problem. See the attached PDF file for the details.
conundrum
Hi all I have a problem with an atlas code83 turnout. The engine stutters and if going very slow will stop on turnout. I have cleaned the points and pivots. checked wiring. if i push down slightly on loco it will start again. this by the way happens with all three of my engines. Im stumped. I should add that this is just straight dc.thanks Dick
Superelevated Curves, Wheel Drag
On my HO switching layout I have 24-Inch radius "super elevated" curves using plastic shims underneath the ties. All curves have proper easements.
The super elevation height change is very gradual, (at least slightly longer than my longest 60-foot car), and set at the following levels throughout the turn:
.010 - before the start of the curve and into the begging of the curve
.020 - next level up
.030 - maximum elevation
The super elevation of the curve than decreases from .030 to .020 to .010
Turnout control using servos top mounted in 2" foam
I've posted previously that I'm using top mounted servos in my 2" thick foam benchtop to operate the turnouts on my Richlawn Railroad V2 layout. This post shows the details of this type of installation. Here's the steps I take to install the servo:
1.) Determine the position of the turnout on the foam and mark it's location and also make the line for the control wire / tube.
2.) Mark the position of the servo in the correct location to line up with the control wire / tube.
New website with free track plans and layout designs
Hello all :)
There is a new website for collect together model train track plans and layouts in all scales and sizes, designed with SCARM planning software:
How important are easements into curves?
I am building an HO around-the-wall layout in a small space. I have 5.5 feet by 12 feet available and I plan on operating a wide range of diesel era equipment, including 85' passenger cars. No long steam locos. So, I am planning on using radius 30 curves, which are the largest I can fit into the space. The layout is basically an oval, with a lift-out at one end to allow access to the center viewing area. Various sidings and a small yard are located in the inside of the oval, as well as a reversing loop (I hope).
Richlawn RR V2 - Track laying - Buck ain't happy!
The track team is rounding the curve by Buck & Loretta's place and it's going well......except for the local interference. The foreman was stopped in his tracks by the sudden appearance of a local resident, Buck who gave him an earful! It seems that Buck is none too happy about the railroad and construction near his "lovely" home.
Old equipment worth using?
I am returning to the hobby after 20 years or so. My layout has really old Atlas custom line turnouts ( stamped points) all code 100 NS, and really old Athearn engines. Block cab control of course.
All the new stuff seems so high priced ( old guy talking); is it worthwhile trying to get my old stuff to run reliably, or should I scrap it and go on to something newer? I realize that ultimately I need to make some choices, but are other folks still using 30 year old equipment successfully ?
NWDan
>> Posts index
Navigation
Journals/Blogs
Recent Blog posts: