switches *Modeling Content*

The discussion on switches led me to take some pictures and upload them here.

My brother and I have started the process of scratchbuilding models from the RGW and RGS in 1/2" true scale, and have been working on a test track yard for the past 2 weeks. I have drawn up switches on CAD for a # 6, 8, and 10 in left, right, and wye configuration, and we have been using the #6's for our yard. Here are a few pics of the drawings, and the progress.


First picture is of the cad drawing. this utilizes D&RGW tie space practices, and shows the base of the rail only.




This picture is of the filed and fitted rails, before paint or ties... Gauge is set at 1.5", and the switch is just under 24" (note, this drawing was printed before I actually knew the proper tie spacing, so I used the standard for large scale which happened to be too far apart)




Here is the first 4 switches we have built, as well as a few feet of track. When finished, the yard will include 3 left hand switches, 2 right hand, and 1 wye switch, and approximately 95 feet of track. The track to the far left, with the box and stock car, is G gauge, set a 1.75" for 1:20.3, you may notice the difference in the two gauges...




This project has been fun, and a huge learning experience. Our minimum diameter curve is 16' which translates to 30 degrees. Average turn for a model, but too sharp for the real thing. Cant wait till we have a couple of scratch locos, and some rolling stock to test!!!

Casey Akin



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 11/09/2009 10:21PM by mesaman3000.