Large Scale Central

Ground throw springs for turnouts

Track and Trestles
#1

I’ve looked in both this forum and in the articles, and can’t find the info I need.

I’m looking for some direction in how to fabricate and install the springs attached to the throwbar to keep the switches either open or thrown. I’ve seen them here, before, but have lost track of the article.

Thanks.

#2

Not sure if this is what your looking for but I did switch stands and got my plans from Bruce. Here is the link to my thread. Also try Bruces web site fo the plans. For the more basic throwbar and spring try I think Freds web site?
http://www.largescalecentral.com/LSCForums/viewtopic.php?id=12687
http://www.ovgrs.org/ Look under trackwork for switch throws

#3

Well, the spring I had in mind connects the throwbar with the extended ties that surround the throw bar. I think Tom Ruby is the guy who had the idea. He used safety pins on his indoor layout. I doubt they would last very long outside.

What metal is used for the spring?

#4

I think piano wire.

#5

I’ve used Tom Ruby’s idea with a cut safety pin. Took a few attempts to get the hole placement correct. Need a picture?

#6
Jon Radder said:
I've used Tom Ruby's idea with a cut safety pin. Took a few attempts to get the hole placement correct. Need a picture?
Yes, please.

What was the problem with hole placement?

#7

(http://lsc.cvsry.com/Post2/SwitchPin001-800.jpg)

(http://lsc.cvsry.com/Post2/SwitchPin002-800.jpg)

(http://lsc.cvsry.com/Post2/SwitchPin003-800.jpg)

Steve Featherkile said:
What was the problem with hole placement?

You need to set the points in the center (not open or closed) when drilling the hole. Then the holes go on the centerliine. For my first attempt, seen in the first two pictures as an unused hole, I used the centerline with the switch open, which did not work. Third picture was doine correctly the first time.