03-19-2018, 08:13 AM
The tracks and switches are ballasted now. It went quite well with two observations:
a. I tried to protect the joints of the blades from the glue (white glue, water and detergent). That failed. The glue creeped up but it did not interrupt the electric connection. Lots of worry but no problem at all.
b. I assumed no mechanical problems but the lack of a powerful switch machine made it clear how much glue interfered with the simple mechanic. It toke about 10 minutes per switch to remove all set glue to get a smooth operation with a simple over center spring. All switches in perfect maintenance location at the layout front!
Summary: It work fine at the afternoon after ballasting.
Let’s see how things develop over time.
Anyhow I do not recommend it for larger and more complex layouts. It would also not use it with other than robust contemporary HO diesel engines.
a. I tried to protect the joints of the blades from the glue (white glue, water and detergent). That failed. The glue creeped up but it did not interrupt the electric connection. Lots of worry but no problem at all.
b. I assumed no mechanical problems but the lack of a powerful switch machine made it clear how much glue interfered with the simple mechanic. It toke about 10 minutes per switch to remove all set glue to get a smooth operation with a simple over center spring. All switches in perfect maintenance location at the layout front!
Summary: It work fine at the afternoon after ballasting.
Let’s see how things develop over time.
Anyhow I do not recommend it for larger and more complex layouts. It would also not use it with other than robust contemporary HO diesel engines.
Reinhard