09-19-2009, 01:57 PM
Early on in the building of the freight yard, I was sure I would not have clearance for the switch machines underneath some turnouts, bue to the backdrop and helix below. So I used top mounted machines, and planned on an annex to the corp headquarters bldg to conceal them. Here is a pic from before I removed the machines and replaced them with torti mounted below. You can see some ties ending at the microswitch, the plan was to have a roll up door in the wall there so it appeared teh track went into the bldg., for some unknown purpose.
Here you see the machines have been removed and replaced. The linkages to attach teh torti to the previously existing throw wire are telescoping rectangular brass tubing. The larger tube is epoxied in the slot providing a stable environment for the inner sliding tube.
This shot shows I scrapped up the old ties and have laid new ones, which represent a lead to an industrial park off layout. I will be able to spot 4 cars here, fiddling on and off the layout. You can see I covered the throws with styrene, to keep them clean and free of future ballast. To compensate for the thickness of the styrene, I will use profile ties on top of the styrene, it looks like the heights then match closely. I will sand the tie tops of course to make them even. When this is done, the scene will be complete and I can move on to the diesel servicing area.
Here you see the machines have been removed and replaced. The linkages to attach teh torti to the previously existing throw wire are telescoping rectangular brass tubing. The larger tube is epoxied in the slot providing a stable environment for the inner sliding tube.
This shot shows I scrapped up the old ties and have laid new ones, which represent a lead to an industrial park off layout. I will be able to spot 4 cars here, fiddling on and off the layout. You can see I covered the throws with styrene, to keep them clean and free of future ballast. To compensate for the thickness of the styrene, I will use profile ties on top of the styrene, it looks like the heights then match closely. I will sand the tie tops of course to make them even. When this is done, the scene will be complete and I can move on to the diesel servicing area.