Hinged Switch Point Video
Constructing a Hinged Switch Point
Another trackwork construction video showing how I make hinged switch points for a turnout that has very short points. The technique I am using was shown in a previous post here, to put the video in context it might be worth while to look over the post. This is a video version of this process being applied to the turnout I was working on in the last video.
This turnout is part of a section of trackwork that has 4 #3 three way curved turnouts and is based on very sharp, 14″ radius track. Due to these sharp radii, the switchpoints have to be very short, slightly over 1″ long and therefore have to be hinged in order to pivot freely. Also, the amount of space on an open point has to be wider than normal to accommodate wheels traversing this sharp curve. If they are not opened enough, the wheels will pick the switchpoints which will lead to cursing.
Hopefully these videos aren’t too dull to sit through, let me know if you like them, if so I can make more as I work on the layout. Again, watch it in HQ if you can.
-T.
This is the most recent construction related post.
Check back soon for an update! In the meantime, the category links to the right are full of interesting content.
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About the Author:
I'm your host, Tim Warris, a product developer in Port Dover, Ontario. Since March of 2007 I have been documenting the construction of the former CNJ Bronx Terminal in HO scale. For my day job, I design track building tools for Fast Tracks, a small company I own and operate. Fast Tracks makes it fast and easy to hand lay your own trackwork. Stop by our website to learn more!
Posted by: Tim | 03-13-2009 | 08:03 AM
Posted in: Latest Posts | Track Construction | Video
Its a pleasure to watch a craftsman at work. Please post more such videos.
Brilliant!
Also nice to see that you ran out of hands sawing the point rails. Good to know you’re human like the rest of us. VBG
Tim::
Outstanding as usual. A couple of things:
Why no running commentary?
Also, when you were drilling in the lathe another approach would be to center drill, then drill the hole. Move to the next location and repeat by center drilling and drilling as before. While this means an extra bit change, it will ensure the location of the hole.
.vp
Great instructional videos! Even for those who — like me — don’t handlay their track there’s lots to be learned here.
Keep them coming!
Tim,
Thank you for taking the time to share your work. It is really inspiring. And your photo captions are hilarious.
Keep up the great work!