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+--- Thread: cant reach switches (/showthread.php?tid=1809)
cant reach switches - KevinKrey - 10-01-2009
So Im drawing up plans for a new layout, and Im finding that there are a few spots where I might have to have switches that are out of reach. Until now Ive always used the manual ground throws from caboose hobbies, what would the easiest alternative be? Is there an option that doesnt involve wiring up electric switches?
Re: cant reach switches - nachoman - 10-01-2009
I have seen people make cable type mechanical systems out of bicycle brake cables, or out of piano wire. The control is a knob on the fascia, and works reliably. I would avoid inaccessible turnouts for another reason - most derailments occur there, and having the turnout out of reach makes it harder to re-rail the train. this is especially true if you can't easily see which way the switch is thrown!
Re: cant reach switches - KevinKrey - 10-01-2009
Yea, within the last few minutes Ive ditched those layout plans for the derailment issue. Dont want to build a layout that will just casue headaches I guess.
Re: cant reach switches - Lester Perry - 10-01-2009
As of now I have one switch that is out of reach. I rarely have any trouble with it. But if I may I would like to suggest using Peco switches. I am sure there are better ones out there if you want to spend the money. I know there are worse ones. I won't mention the brand but will give you some hints. The first letter in the name is A the last one is S. The name could also be used for maps.I feel they are junk. I have a lot of them ( probably 100 or more) and they are failing one by one. I refuse to purchase another one by this company. As fare as controllers go, a choke or throttle cable for lawn mowers will work. Also get a choke cable for older car.Try N.A.P.A. Use your imagination design one your self it might make you famous.
Re: cant reach switches - foulrift - 10-02-2009
I remember seeing an add for manual switch throws that consisted of a wire and a handle that resembled the kind used in a switch tower. Don't remember the manufacturer.
Bob
Re: cant reach switches - toptrain - 10-02-2009
KEVIN ; Never give up in the same day. Look to make changes. Maybe you should build this layout section on it own board and test its ability to operate properly. If it is a switch inside a mountain you can make a removeable section to expose it. Explain you problum a little better. Maybe a spur slip switch is all you need.
frank
Re: cant reach switches - Lester Perry - 10-02-2009
May I ask why no electric switches? All but 2 of mine are electric control. I would have it no other way.
Re: cant reach switches - poliss - 10-02-2009
Are you thinking of Gems Mercontrol Bob? <!-- m --><a class="postlink" href="http://www.gemmodelrailways.co.uk/GEM_Web_Site/Mercontrol.html">http://www.gemmodelrailways.co.uk/GEM_W ... ntrol.html</a><!-- m -->
The technical name for the wire in tube is Bowden Cable. You could also use stiff wires, such as old metal coathangers, attached directly to the switches/points.
Re: cant reach switches - Selector - 10-02-2009
I think Bob is referring to humpyard throws. At their site: <!-- m --><a class="postlink" href="http://www.humpyard.com/">http://www.humpyard.com/</a><!-- m -->
-Crandell
Re: cant reach switches - foulrift - 10-02-2009
Crandell-Thanks-Those are the ones.
Re: cant reach switches - BR60103 - 10-02-2009
I use a piece of stiff wire in brass tube. It does need to run straight. And I've only used it for short lengths; I think long lengths could get expensive.
Re: cant reach switches - KevinKrey - 10-02-2009
I was looking at having a section of my layout that was against a wall a bit over 4 feet wide and wanted to have some yard switches back there, but ive replanned my trackplan and no longer have any out of reach it looks like.
Re: cant reach switches - Herc Driver - 10-03-2009
(This is a crazy idea...but...) Would bicycle tire spokes be rigid enough (and possible to hide in the scenery) that you could shorten the distance between you and the turnout with them, so that you could still throw the switch manually? (I told you it was a crazy idea.) Or what about using the plastic rods used in RC airplanes?
Re: cant reach switches - poliss - 10-04-2009
Not a crazy idea Herc, people have been using bicycle spokes for changing points since the 60s, if not earlier. Under the baseboard of course, not over it.
Re: cant reach switches - upnick - 10-04-2009
Herc Driver Wrote:(This is a crazy idea...but...) Would bicycle tire spokes be rigid enough (and possible to hide in the scenery) that you could shorten the distance between you and the turnout with them, so that you could still throw the switch manually? (I told you it was a crazy idea.) Or what about using the plastic rods used in RC airplanes?
Hi Kevin,
Yup Sullivan golden rods used in R/C planes would be ideal as they're 36/48/60 '' long and can be extended easily with thread rod very flexible.
<!-- m --><a class="postlink" href="http://www.sullivanproducts.com/ProductIndexMainFrame.htm">http://www.sullivanproducts.com/Product ... nFrame.htm</a><!-- m -->