Folks- can I get your experience with the model 220S (this is the ground throw with the built in contacts). Do they work well? How hard is it to solder the frog and rails to the contacts? Do the contacts hold up well after repeated use? Thanks much!
PS- I plan on using these on Atlas and Walthers turn-outs.
No, the built-in contacts do not work well – it is very difficult to get them properly adjusted as it is being installed, and to keep them working properly.
I have found that the “U” shaped contact spring needs to be spread apart slightly as the throw is being assembled or it doesn’t make good contact, and I have had to use super-glue on some of the pocket covers to keep it from working back out of the pocket.
If I had it to do over again, I would not use these throws.
Ditch the CI ground throws and use a slide switch. You get 2 sets of contacts, no need to build the ground throw, and easier to install.
jktrains
Thanks for the feedback. My other alternative was going to be a slide switch, you’ve helped me avoid wasted $$.
I can’t speak for performance over a long period of time. I have installed them on four turnouts and they are doing fine. With some tricks, I found them fairly easy to install.
Before slipping the three prong piece into the hole, I soldered about 12" of wire to each of the prongs at the work bench, which was easy. Then put the wires through the hole followed by the prongs. I think to solder the wire on after installing the prongs, is very difficult.
I then took the three wires under the table, and after crimping on spade lugs, took the wires to a lug mount on my benchwork. screwing them to the lug mount. In this way I can reverse the polarity later easily, if needed. From the other side of the lugs, I ran wires to the frog and power feeds. Also sent wires with resistors to the control panel for LED lights.
I found putting the spring and then the cover into the top, was difficult until I used my magnifying head band and using tweezers. Then it was fairly easy, and works fine.
Whatever you use, have fun modeling! Hal
Thanks Don, for taking the time to answer. Guess I’ll buy one and see how it goes.
I was a surprised that some of the first posts were negative. I’ve had nothing but good luck with my two. Like the poster above, soldering the wires on first at the work bench saves a lot of trouble. The lead to the frog I tinned and threaded into place, securing it with a little glue. There have been no problems with either one since installation. These throws are putting juice to a long frog on a Walther’s 3-way turnout.