ge_rik
British narrow gauge (esp. Southwold and W&LLR)

Even since my railway was constructed I've relied on an ad hoc system for aligning the tracks at the ends of the two swing bridges I have which are needed to give access to the patio and the sheds. This has usually entailed wedging bits of wood and odd bits of roofing felt under the rails to try and persuade them to stay aligned - you can imagine the results!!
After more than a few derailments in my last operating session I decided enough was enough and so have hopefully sorted out my problem once and for all! I take no credit for inventing the system - I'm sure I saw it in Railway Modeller sometime in the previous century - but thought someone else may appreciate seeing this solution.
Take two bits of brass tubing and a bent beheaded galvanised nail (I would have used brass rod but didn't have any of the right diameter to hand).
Solder the brass tubes to the ends of the rails and then pass the 'bolt' through them. Result, reliable alignment!
Has anyone solved the problem differently? I'd be interested in seeing other solutions to what must be a common problem for we modellers who venture into the great outdoors.
Rik
After more than a few derailments in my last operating session I decided enough was enough and so have hopefully sorted out my problem once and for all! I take no credit for inventing the system - I'm sure I saw it in Railway Modeller sometime in the previous century - but thought someone else may appreciate seeing this solution.
Take two bits of brass tubing and a bent beheaded galvanised nail (I would have used brass rod but didn't have any of the right diameter to hand).
Solder the brass tubes to the ends of the rails and then pass the 'bolt' through them. Result, reliable alignment!
Has anyone solved the problem differently? I'd be interested in seeing other solutions to what must be a common problem for we modellers who venture into the great outdoors.
Rik