--- In [email protected], "coalsmoker2194" wrote:
>After this, I think I'll look into Fast-trak jigs.
>
>
You really don't need fastrack jigs to build fastrack type switches. Just
buy the PC board ties and then glue them to the roadbed in the same pattern
that fastrack uses and solder the rails in place using an NASG track gauge. To
be able to do the work on a workbench instead of on a layout just cut the
roadbed for the switch from thin plywood or other material and install it on
the layout after the switch is done. The hard part is not holding the pieces
which is all the fastrack turnout jigs do, the hard part is filing the points
and frogs which can be made easier by using a fastracks point and frog filing
fixture.
I've filed enough to do them without the point filing fixture but I'd recommend
it if one wants to save some work. The jigs however don't save enough work to
make it worth the cost and the fact that they only make one number of switch
while building them on your roadbed allows any frog number needed. I'm building
some N scale switches now which are really tiny and hard to see compared to S
scale but their code 55 rail does file really easily and heats up instantly for
soldering. In N scale the lack of spike detail don't show up much but in S
scale it might be a factor in the decision to use the fastracks PC board ties
or to use spikes and rail details. If the most important thing is stability and
reliability I'd go with soldered PC board ties though , although I'd add PC
board ties in a few more spots than fastracks jigs use and I'd install hinged
switch points to make throw pressure lighter and the geometry
better.....DaveBranum
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