I am considering the installation of a single slip switch on my layout. But, from what I can determine, the single slip and the double slip cost just about the same and the double slip offers the fleixbility of more routes even though the single slip switch will provide the routes that I need. So, what is the advantage, if any, of a single slip switch over a double slip switch?
Rich
If you model a prototype and they use a single slip, I would use a single slip too.
A single slip has less maintenance than a double slip, it’s - for the prototype - cheaper.
Wolfgang
The advantage of a single slip, if only the routes provided are all that will ever be needed, are four less points and two less curved rails. In hand-laying terms, you save a foot or so of HO rail and about an hour’s construction time.
If you might ever have reason to use that other curved route, go with a double slip to start with.
Chuck (Modeling Central Japan in September, 1964 - witha puzzle palace of slip switches)
The double slip will cost quite a bit more. For one thing, twice as many switch points will be needed, together with special switch rods. All these are higher maintenance items so the extra costs will be ongoing beyond the original purchase. Keeping everything in adjustment will require more care too.
If there is no need for the additional route options of a double slip, it makes no sense to put one in. Single slips are less common, but are used in preference if that is all that is required. So follow prototype practice and use a single slip.
Signalling costs in an interlocking, however, will be much the same despite a lot more potential routings to be considered when the designer develops the interlocking mechanism or circuits.
John
I went with what was realistic in my plans - if the prototype would have used a single, I went with a single so it would look “right”… yes, model single and doubles cost the same…
From what I just read online a single slip and a double slip are “all” most the same basic switch. On the single you have two routes to choose from going one way and the other way you have one. While with the double you have two routes both ways. So from a cost stand point I would install the double slip even if the other route is not used for awhile. Future expansion thing and all.
Johnnny_reb,
That’s pretty sound logic. That’s what I am going to do. I will get the double slip instead of the single slip.
Rich
A single slip switch will only work with the train traveling in one direction. A double slip switch requires two switch motors to operate electrically. I use double slip switches to allow locos four possible routes. Note how the two double slip switches in my stub ended yard allows the loco to navigate to each of the seven tracks without having to go on the main line. Go for the double slip switch. Click on photo to enlarge it. The second photo shows a double slip switch operated by one solenoid. I don’t think that this type is still available. Bob Hahn 
A single slip switch !?!?! (Gasp!) Are you sure? I mean, have you really thought this through? What will the neighbors think? Some people might wonder that you have the temerity to show your face in public after pulling a stunt like that. (shaking head) You just never know about some people. It really makes ya wonder sometimes.
John
[swg] [(-D] [swg] [(-D] [swg] [(-D]
And of course, Double Slips and Single Slips are vastly over-used in model railroads compared to real life.
John,
Fear not!
I came to my senses and decided to go with the double slip. [:D]
Rich
Whew!
That was a close call.
John
&nbs