Me and the Dog and some Turtles
A bit of video of installing a Tortoise switch machine in place. This is a bit out of sequence, as it was shot before the video showing me testing the trackwork. I just got to editing it now, so pretend it came first…
-T.
On to Next Section…
Some Switch Machines Installed
I have completed the installation of some of the Tortoise switch machines. One half of the layout has them in place, including the section of track with 8 sets of switchpoints.
Until now, I have not been able to test this section of track in its entirety. With so many movable switchpoints I was unable too keep them all tight against the stock rail while I tested the trackwork with a couple cars. Now that the machines are in place, I am able to give it a good run through. Since I am able to whip the cars through at high speed, I *think* a string of cars should work well.
The trackwork is only half the equation, the cars have to have free rolling wheels and proper weight. I will work my way through all the cars I intend to use soon, adding proper weight, and free rolling metal wheels.
If all goes well, I should have the remainder of the switch machines in place this week.
I still have one more turnout to build too.
tick, tick, tick…..
-T.
On to Next Section….
Its permanent, no turning back now!
Well, after 2 years of putzing around with it, I am finally ready to glue the trackwork permanently in place. I decided to use construction adhesive for the job, I figured its all or nothing, once its glued down, there will be no removing it. I applied the adhesive with a putty knife, carefully avoiding the area where the throwbars have to remain free. The track was carefully laid in place into the adhesive and it pressed down. Once cured, I cut the sections at the layout joints. It all went well, with no disasters.
Now, I am installing the 30 Tortoises onto the layout.
-T.
On to Next Section…
