Manual versus Automatic Turnouts

iarwain_8 · 2005-11-24T21:31:22+00:00

How do you feel about using manual versus automatic turnouts? I knowsome people feel like they're part of the railroad if they actuallyhave to get down and throw the manual switch.Myself, I definitely prefer the automatic ones, but I absolutely hatewiring the damn things up, it's so monotonous (and I usually plan for alot of turnouts). I had automatic turnouts on my last layout, and Ithink it took quite a bit out of me to wire them all (ended updampening my enthusiasm, you know?).I've actually been thinking of using manual turnouts on my next layout,just for the simple fact that I can slap them down quicker and be donewith them. They're also cheaper, although that's not the majorconcern. I also found some of the automatic turnouts didn't work thatwell, they were kind of hit and miss. I did love operating theautomatic ones though, not sure how I'd feel about using the manuals.

Nov 24, 2005 27 Replies

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Big Rich Soprano 20 years ago

Exactly... I've also hear from dispatchers:

plant bend metal dam things won't work old Reading junk etc...

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Big Rich Soprano 20 years ago

Amcrash is doing that now on the Keystone Corridor. They (or Pohl Corp) would make em and ship em wherever. I've also seen tractor and trailers hauling "snap track" to some places...

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Big Rich Soprano 20 years ago

the R/C airplane hobby has something to offer in this regard. They use plastic bell cranks and steel threaded rods that lend themselves nicely to moving remote points.

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Big Rich Soprano 20 years ago

Old lawn mower throttles - yes

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Big Rich Soprano 20 years ago

Wish i read this before i posted:

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pawlowsk002 20 years ago

Folks:

Here's a project. Using the mechanical rod or wire methods described, construct an old-style armstrong interlocking plant. It has actually been done, but not often!

For real amusement, set it up to route power as well...

Cordially yours: Gerard P.

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Steve Caple 20 years ago

Arrrgghhhh! I don't believe in tabloid supernatural stuff, but I almost have to believe you're channeling Terry Flynn!

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Greg Procter 20 years ago

The Brits do that stuff all the time!

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