Point switches

Llongfordrailway

Edrig, Little John, Ruby, Ffion and Coal Fowler
Hello,

I currently had lgb points on my railway and use their manual switches but I find the spring action is not what is used to be an the points often require me pushing the blades across too. Can anyone recommend a lever type switch which I can use more prototypically?

Thanks

Daniel
 
Do you mean something like this?

http://www.peco-uk.com/product.asp?strParents=3309&CAT_ID=3335&P_ID=17636

The disadvantage is that you lose the ability to run a train through against the points I believe.
 
I've made all new, manual point throws using a simple barrel bolt and some springs from Home Depot. I don't have any close up pictures to post at the moment. The barrel bolts must be solid brass, not brass plated steel. I will try to take some close ups today and post them. Here is a photo, from Ebay, of the type I used.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/3-BARREL-BOLT-First-Watch-Polished-Brass-Solid-Brass-1853-078555770372-/351040184857?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item51bba02219
 
You could try the Bertram Heyn levers....

IMG_5603%2520%2528Small%2529.JPG
 
798.03 said:
You could try the Bertram Heyn levers....

Wow they look realy neat, did you buy them direct?

From Google Translate: -
The lever is parallel to the track, so it can also be installed between two parallel tracks. Also directly opposite course is not a problem because the base plate only 79 x is 39 mm.
He adapts the standard points, both LGB and Aristo. It is completely made of brass and finished mounted on the bottom plate. The simple switch is easily replaced.
Here is a small dimensioned sketch of the distance from the track
 
;) If the LGB points are 'stiff', and require pushing over by hand, try doing what the prototype railways do.... lubricate the switch plates. Often, the stiffness is caused by the friction of the switch rail on the plate. Oil the plates, and leave the switch control on the one setting, then push the switch rails over by hand, against the pressure of the spring then let go. Do this half a dozen times in quick succession, and your problems should go away. Another thing, check the inside of the lever box to see if some creepy crawlies have not taken up residence.
 
I don't like oil or grease outside for this job, it collects carp. I prefer a dry lube, like graphite, or just make sure everything is absolutely s*** free.
 
ge_rik said:
These look very neat - do they work as per prototype - ie the balance weight acts as the 'spring'?
Not really - the balance weight isn't heavy enough to do that, but they certainly hold the blade in position. They're moderately stiff (but obviously could be eased/lubricated), and you couldn't drive a loco against the lever easily; I'm pretty sure that it wouldn't return on its own.
JRinTawa said:
Wow they look realy neat, did you buy them direct?
Yes. They're a direct fit onto LGB/TrainLine points, no modification required. I have, however, painted the brass. Bertram Heyn makes several variations on the theme. He takes PayPal, but he does add the PayPal fees to the bill. And he does speak English.
 
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