Several weeks ago Jim James started a thread regarding ground throws. As I recall he was trying to find something that was operational, but also somewhat to scale. He installed some NJ International throws, but they were not operational. I got to thinking about this. I would put my West Bottoms layout as more operational than scenic. However those ever popular, durable, easy to install and relatively cheap Caboose ground throws are about the size of a VW in HO scale. Although I like the feel of throwing them, they are just too large for my taste. I have come up with a workable solution to this scale vs operation question. I installed a Caboose ground throw on the facia and hooked up a mechanism to throw the switch under the table. It took three attempts to get this to work. The key is there can be zero flex in the mechanism, because if there is it will absorb the pressure of the throw and will not push/pull the rail into the proper positon. I finally cobbled up something using rectangular brass. The electrical wires in the under table picture are leads, have nothing to do with it. I have also for comparative purposes put an unpainted scale Details West throw and an HO figure next to the Caboose throw. The Details West throw will go on top of the table work. You will also see the lock I have installed that must be open before the switch can be thrown. No mechanism here, it is strictly on the honor system for those who want to really get into operation. John
John, that's a very clever job you did. I might use your idea on a future project layout or switching module. Thanks for sharing the idea.
Well done, sir...well done. The padlock is an especially sublime touch, and one that I just might have to incorporate for our layout! Best Regards,
Chris: I can't take credit for the padlock idea, Lance Mindheim's book on operating a switching railroad. However, Lance's idea of waiting five minutes for a brake check everytime you pick up/ drop of cars is probably where I draw the line. John
