Drop down gate for layout

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

I need a source for making a drop down access gate for my new layout. I understand the basic design concept, but it’s those details!

-Making sure the track is properly aligned when the gate is up.

-A way to provide power from the gate to adjoining tracks.

-Ideas for preventing a train from taking an unintional plunge when the gate is down.

Thanks! Jim

2

Jim, ● Use quality materials for construction. ● Do not use ‘select’ or low-end lumber. ● Use a piano hinge for the connection. You can use heavy duty limit switches to power the bridge. Make sure you gap the dead section far enough back to prevent trains from going over the edge. Jim

3

I agree with Jim-r on the piano hinge for accurate alignment.

You could also use a micro-switch or similar to cut power to the track when the gate is down.

As for the power to adjoining tracks the only reliable solution I know of, would be some form of flexible connector - but that would require custom change to track ends. More experienced folks may have a better solution for this.

Jim-J, you can always have a fixed platform and duck under the layout unless you are old like me and that’s not a solution [:D]

4

David Popp built one as part of the “Rehab my Railroad” series on Video Plus. He starts in episode 9.

5

Is video plus a pay for service?

Also, how can you get to it?

6
7

Rich,

I buy the printed version from Books a Million or similar stores and am happy but I don’t know how to access the other resources. Put it down to old age but I am ready to learn.

8

Know what you mean. I will be seventy five soon but have kept up with the times.

Videos, right at the top of the page. Most Internet sites have loads of Hyper link Icons on the page. Until you put the pointer on to them, you will never know. Look in the Black banner at the top of the page. Many have drop down menus to choose from.

Rich

9

My gripe with a drop down gate is that any scenery or track on the gate is subjected to being hit as you walk in and out of the layout.

Just my thought.

Good luck,

Richard

10

Rich,

Thanks for the info - I can now see the videos - thank you.

11

Richard, I think that hitting the track or scenery could be avoided if the door folded down into a protective sleeve. That is two vertical pieces of wood the same thickness as the height of any scenery or track. That way you would be more likely to hit the protective wood barrier instead of anything delicate. Of course if the gap is not very wide then you have problems again.