05-04-2010, 10:40 AM
I have come up with an alternative, (and possibly easier) method of making a traverser, the photos should be self-explanatory - this one is a mockup and is intended to switch a loco between two tracks, but will work as an ordinary traverser by allowing it to move further so it can line up with more tracks. Current is supplied via the K&S flat bottomed U-shaped channel, laid on its side and epoxied into position. The phosphor bronze is bent into a "W" shape and rubs along the top of the channel, passing the current to that rail - at the other end a blob of epoxy on the underside of the rail prevents it making contact with the channel. The copper- clad laminate used for the traverser table needs a break in the surface vertically (across the middle and NOT horizontally as it is in the photo!) to prevent the two brass channels from forming a dead short. The copperclad needs JUST ENOUGH play to let it slide freely - make sure the ends are dead square.
Hope it helps