Which ground throws for code 55?

I'm doing a little research to decide whether or not to go with codee 55 on my nest layout. Currently I am using unitrack on a modified version or MR's Wisconsin Southern, that they did a series on earlier this year. I have no real issues with unitrack, but as I plan an expanded empire, that cost would get me skinned by the boss, aka the wife.

So I'm looking at atlas code 55 turnouts with micro engineering weathered flex. I will probally mount it on corkboard, which can be gotten cheap and easy. I will probally buy it from Hobby lobby, in a roll and cut it myself. But what I don't know about are ground throws. I am planning on a shelf layout or one where all turnouts are within reach, so I want to manually throw my turnouts. So which are the best, which are the cheapest, or has someone devised a cheap and easy method to use.

Thanks

 

Hi Stevi...welcome to trainboard...

I found this article online which I am going to try. It seems simple...inexpensive...and it evidently works...

http://www.nmra.org.au/Layout_Tours/Saxon/Switch_Throw.html




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I used slide switches from Radio SHack in my previous N layout using Atlas code 55 switches. I was using extruded foam as a base so anchoring the switches with a nail wouldn't work. I ended up excavating the hole for the slide switch and latex adhesive (standard tube from Home Depot delivered via a caulking gun). It took some practice in getting the right amount, positioning the swtich, making sure the adhesive did not impede the switch's movement, and stabilizing it until it dried (2 days if I remember correctly. It worked like a champ.

I think I took some digital photos but that was 7 years ago. I'll see if I can find any.

 

I've just finished installing 10 caboose groundthrows. They seem to be working fine and are very easy to install. Walthers has them on sale right now.

 

The link I posted up top pretty much explains it...real simple it seems.

http://www.nmra.org.au/Layout_Tours/Saxon/Switch_Throw.html

I will be doing mine with the slide switches on my HC doors within a few weeks. I will need to modify the plan a bit...but the premise will be the same.
:tb-cool:
:tb-cool:

 

Since all the turnouts I've seen (with switch machines affixed) are designed for momentary energization, how can one use a slide switch that will continuously apply voltage to the selected coil of the turnout machine? Or does that not apply to turnout motors that are installed separately? Or have I completely misunderstood this thread and we are discussing the application of track power to a section and bypassing the points to perform that service?

Tim

 

Trobins...

we are talking using a slide switch as a mnaual throw. Since most slide switches 'click' on either the on or off position...that alone would help keep points of the turnout tight against the rail in either direction. There is no power to the switch as there is no power to any turnout motor. (check the link) ;-)



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Thanks, now it's clear. The article referenced earlier said to drill a 1/4" hole in the baseboard for the wires, so I assumed the switch was being used to activate a switch motor. Thanks.

Tim

 

Yes...you COULD wire the switch...but to lamps on a panel...not to a turnout motor. That would make the slide switch serve 2 fold... manual throw...and lamps to tell ya which way its slid...;-)

 

I'm using the technique developed by Dan Crowley at Ground throws. VERY inexpensive and easy to do. I was going to use the Caboose Industries 224S, but I'm not happy with how much real estate they take up. Ben Upstate New York