Signal Type Advice

Friends,

I am working on adding signals to my layout, which is notionally along the Northern Division between Ft. Scott, KS and Afton, OK in the mid 1950s. Could someone provide advice on signal types that would be prototypical along the main line and perhaps post a photo or link to available HO scale candidates? Even better would be some information on placement or photos from a layout with such signals installed.

Thanks in Advance,

-Bob T.

 

Bob, according to my timetable no 39c dated Jan. 8, 1956, the Afton sub was controlled by CTC.
As to the type of signal, I assume they were of the searchlight type as the other sub divisions I am familiar with that were CTC were of that type.
I have bought Tomar signals for a future layout which are very close to the ones I have seen. Some one else can add other sources that would also work.
You would want to place a double signal on the main controlling entrance into the siding and up the main at both ends of the siding with a single signal in advance of this in the field to serve as an advance signal. The signal on the main at the end of a siding would be a single tall signal with a pot (low) signal leaving the siding. I don't know of any pictures to help you.

 

I am in the procrastination stage of working out signals for the bridge and diamond at Van Buren on my layout. Now that I think about it, the arrangement should be more complicated, with advance signals. Maybe even a signal where the MP departs on the Fort Smith side? So I am wondering if there are diagrams available or do I just need to plead with the folks that remember the local setup?

 

I have been in more bungalow's than can be counted. I have also helped with signal testing, after cutting in a new crossover. Many times. CTC is extremely difficult and a hobby all in its self. One guy here in Florida has set up a similar setup Ken Farnham. He also makes the boards and consoles, but it is not for the faint at heart, not to mention the cost.
I think Ken has a web site.
But good luck.
I looked he's on utube, check it out.

 

The Afton Sub was a dark railroad until 1949, at which time the Frisco installed CTC. The work was done between May and September of that year. Passing tracks at Filler, Turck, and Ontario were retired.

HO scale appliances that might be useful:
Electric Lock http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/120-3112
CTC Equipment House http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/120-3103
Swith Super Detail Kit http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/210-1603
Single head http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/81-872
Dual Head http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/81-873
Switch motor http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/120-3107
Relay case http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/247-173

 

Thanks for the complete list, Karl, of the CTC components needed. The Tomar signals are the ones I was referencing in my post. Do you have a schematic of how all the components would have been placed? While working on the railroad, I didn't particularly take notice of all the particular parts placements. I am thinking of the relay case in particular. Also, do you know of any manufacturer selling the low (pot) signal, as this was the typical leave siding signal on the Frisco?

Terry

 

Fantastic. Thanks Karl. I will check out the product listing this weekend!

 

Here's a basic look...

 

That is very well done. Great detail on that one.

 

Thanks for the detailed info Karl.

Working block indicators would be a neat, if subtle, detail on scenery only Free-moN module that include occupancy detection.

Paul