I am building a layout for my Dad for Christmas and had planned to use a Walthers/Shinohara Code 83 Double Crossover. Problem is there doesn’t seem to be one avaiable anywhere. Will a double slip do the same thing the double crossover does?
Also what type of switch machines are used with the Walthers/Shinohara turnouts? Their catalog doesn’t say.
Thanks
Mike
A double crossover is for use with two parallel tracks, whereas a double slip is for use with tracks that do not run parallel to each other. You can make a double crossover using 4 individual turnouts and a crossover instead of trying to find one already put together. With Peco track, 2 left hand and 2 right hand medium turnouts and a 24 degree crossover can be put together to form a double crossover.
Mike,
You can use pretty much any type of switch machine or ground throw that you can connect to the turnouts. Manual groundthrows are quick and cheap, but may be a bother later during use. Switchmaster or Tortoise switch motors work well but are more involved and expensive to install, but once they are in, especially with opposing switches activated together, they are very convenient. Depends on the type (brand) of turnout and how much of the railroad’s capital you can afford to spend.
Mark C.