I am looking to replace the motor units on my Atlast Code 100 switches with the ground throws from Caboose Industries. I am not sure which one to get, there seems to be many options. I like the ones that already have the springs in them, as I am not too sure of myself making my own for the rigid throws. Looking at their web site I cannot seem to find how they are mounted. Seems like 220S could be used with the “hook” attachment for my Atlas switches. I read somewhere that someone used the N guage size as they are more realistic in size. Are they strong enough to work the throw bar on the Atlast HO switch?
Would anyone happen to have any photos of how they have mounted these?
Here is a link to the NMRA site explaining how to install the ground throws. I have several on my N scale layout and they have never given me any problems. I use the 206s for my n scale. http://www.nmra.org/beginner/ground_throw.html
In H-O scale I would use the 202S and cut off the end of the Atlas throw bar with the little hole in it and drill a small hole in what’s left of the throw just big enough to accept the pin in the ground throw. I also had to cut off about half of the pin.
I’m in N-Scale now and I use the 222S on all of my Atlas Code 55 turnouts and they work great. Neat little items that operate just like the prototype!!!
Have fun,
gtr
I’m not sure whether the “n” throws would work well with the Atlas turnouts. The distance the throw moves could be a problem. I use many of the 202S ones and other than being way out of size prototypically, I love them. I don’t put any HO switchmen near them to point out the problem though… [:p] I have fabricated springs for the rigid ones (202r) out of piano wire also.
I use 208s. They have a slightly longer throw for the Atlas Mrk II turnouts. Stay away from the 218 (Selectable ends) or 220 (with contacts), they don’t hold up nearly as well as the 202/206/208.
I just nipped the top of the outer hole on the Atlas throw bar, and stuck the ground throws pin in it. The ground throw is a little farther away, but it leaves the inner hole avalable, it you ever want to convert back to the Atlas machines.