Hi all! I should need your advise here! I'm currently working on a small layout (60" x 40"), on which the track will be surelevated by approximatively one inch above the benchwork. On this portion of the layout I'll have to install 4 turnouts, powered with Tortoise switch machines. My problem: I don't want to drill a hole matching the Tortoises in the benchwork in order to have them just under the subroadbed, as I consider easier to fit the Tortoises under the benchwork. But choosing this option, my problem is that the steel rod delivered with each Tortoise is too short: My question today is: what stuff do you recommend in order to have a longer rod accomodating the height difference between the subroadbed and the benchwork, provided this replacement stuff should have the same strenght and bending ability than the original steel rod? Dom
I reckon .025" 'piano' wire, Dom. K&S supply it and it's essentially spring steel wire. There will be similar available in France probably at a hobby store specialising in radio control vehicles.
The Tortoise wire is almost that long. Try it. If not, as stated, K&S and check music stores for piano wire. Good hobby shops (LHS=local hobby shop) or craft shop will have stiff wire for almost any craft.
Couldn't he give the Tortoise rod a little blue pill and maybe that would add some extra length to it, but of course he might lose the bending ability. LOL Hope this post doesn't make anybody mad, it is meant in good humor!
Humor or not, thanks for your input guys.:tb-smile: I think the best solution is the piano string.... Dom
Dom, what kind of turnouts? Modified Märklin or Peter Wright's ? If the modified Märklin's, almost ANY size stiff wire will work as just blowing on the turnout will make it throw. If it is a Peter Wright or other hand laid turnout that is bending rail, you'll need the stiff wire. .
Sorry guys, quite a long time outside of the forum. To reply to SJ Z-man, my turnouts will be Peter Wright's. I've already laid some and powered them with Tortoises, and provided these turnouts are laid on the workbench's "floor", there's no problem with my underneath Tortoises. BTW, I've purchased bass guitar strings, and I'm going to use the thickest of these after having removed the wire wrapped around.... I'll keep you advised! Dom
