> Monte wrote:
> "Granted, a complete track system in S scale
> would be great, but do any of you think that
> this would be feasible? At best I could see it
> starting with one size switch and I guess it
> would sell for around $40."
If any of you know how to do this, please contact me.
It could be a good business opportunity.
Tom Stoltz
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Gentlemen...
Let's assume someone wanted to produce a new product for S scale and make an
honest buck doing it. Let's also assume Dick Karnes was correct that RTR
turnouts with a motor attached would be a good seller. So the question
boils down to: How to do it?
If'n I were inclined in that direction, I would look at building up RTR
turnouts using the FastTracks fixtures and also having an optional motor
that could easily be attached. With the fixtures, the only cost per turnout
is that of rail, ties, and your labor. Most of the folks using the
FastTracks fixtures claim they can build a complete turnout in less than one
hour. The end result is effectively a RTR turnout. Some spacer shims can
be glued to the bottom of the ties and then the rail height will exactly
match Shinohara or any other brand of flex track. The throw bar and/or
specific ties can be made extra long for accommodation of the motor
mechanism whatever it turns out to be.
For the motor, do whatever makes sense. According to one person, American
Models has figured out how to do it with a modification to a mass-produced
HO turnout motor to provide a greater throw distance. If this approach
works for AM, maybe it is a good technique to examine thoroughly. With the
design of an adaptor, the motor should be attachable to some
longer-than-normal ties without much difficulty. Perhaps only a few tapped
holes would be needed. I'd view this as a doable thing if it is given some
thought. The motor could be attached at the factory (your basement?) or
sold separately for the customer to attach with the provided screws.
Regarding costs, figure $3 for rail, $3 for ties, $10 for one hour of direct
labor, $3 for the mass-produced HO turnout motor and another $1 for the
mounting adaptor and miscellaneous hardware and packaging. Everything
should be purchased in bulk directly from the manufacturer at a 40%
discount off the normal retail list price. Total cost = $ 20. Selling
price = $ 30 for a 50% gross margin.
One last cost factor is the 50 cents "Idea Fee" payable to me for each
turnout sold. I will take payment in beer if you are short of cash.
Let's just do it !!
Have fun..Ed L.
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