So with the influx of new folks seems to have brought about a resurgence in interest in hand laying track. ( I think its cause we’re cheap) Having been a handlayer since Day one in Large Scale some 15 odd years I’m guessing, Even I am re evaluating my tools and techniques, thus a brand new jig for building switches on the bench. Inspired by a design Bob brought to York, and with input from hisself I have designed and started construction on thus:
Basically a scrap piece of 1x12 shelving (Mom wanted the shelf out of her guestroom…and since it was my bedroom about 25 years ago when I built the blood thing it was too large to come out in one piece, thats why its painted) I milled out spacers 3/8 x 5/8 x 4" and nailed them on spaced to hold my standard 3/8" square tie snugly. The plan is to build No4s starting at one end, and No6 from the other. I’m planning to use miniature wood screws to hold rails in place while they’re spiked in, and will have to build one of each (a L&R No4 and No6) before the jig will be complete