I know there are several threads floating around about manual switch options. I am using code 55 Atlas track. I was planning on using Caboose Industries ground throws until I realized there won't be enough clearance in the yard area. There is a double track running along the ladder as you can see below. I am not using foam so a few of the options I've seen where they embedded the switch wire in the foam are out. I know there was a article in a N-scale magazine about a TATER switch I had but it figures that is the one issue which I can't find anymore. Anyone have the how to from that or a similar idea? I would like to run it to a toggle on the layout facia so I don't have to reach into the yard to throw switches around the cars. I don't have the money I would need to do Tortoise either, even though I would love to. The Blue Line ones are nice as well but alittle pricey for a manual. Any other options?
There's a method in the Ntrak book (probably coipyrighted, so I won't scan and post it) using a toggle switch with a rubber cap on it. The cap is cut and a loop of wire goes around it and then to the track. But that one is next to the switch. Moving it out to the edge would be a pain. Plus you'd end up having to build a lever to reverse the throw direction. There was another article somewhere that used a retractable ball point pen to work the rods. Not having any luck finding it quick, but I'll keep looking. Update: I found it - or at least part of it. http://www.trainboard.com/grapevine/showthread.php?t=94029&page=5 Page 5, post #41 has some pictures. I'd swear there was a longer article about this somewhere. Might have been a magazine, though.
I am not sure if there is a prototype of this but what I have done in the past was to run a stiff wire ( I used a straightened out paperclip ) under the adjacent track to a Caboose Ind. ground throw. I ran a drill through the roadbed to make room for the wire. It worked very well for me and that is what is most important. Craig
Honestly, when it comes to a problem like this I think it's up to you to show us all how it's done. Yeah there's tried and true, but sometimes you need something special and cheap. Get some wire and do a testbed for it.
