How to build a bridge with a turnout on it?

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
21

OK Randy, go ahead - twist my arm. Sounds much simpler and if it accomplishes the same thing, who cares what it is.

How do you control the servo? All we want is a manual toggle switch. The turnouts will not be DCC controlled.

Thanks,

Dave

22

You can use a Tam Valley Depot Singlet II Servo DCC Accessory Decoder on DC!
http://www.tamvalleydepot.com/products/singletservodecoder.html

From the description on the linked website: The unit can be used without the DCC on DC layouts by using an AC or DC power supply.

If you plan to use more than this one servo Tam Valley Depot offers solutions for 8 servos too, the Octopuss III Eight Servo Driver (DC only).

Here is a less expensive way using a cheap servo tester. It requires some soldering: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-vbWRBx03Q
A description is on this website: http://www.trainelectronics.com/Servo-simple-controller/
Regards, Volker

23

The Singlet is probably the cheapest way to not have to DIY. Someone who knows a little about electronics could brute force a cheap control device with a SPDT toggle, a pair of 555 timers, and a few resistors and capacitors. Properly done it only needs a single 555 timer IC. You’re talking maybe $2 of parts plus a toggle switch.

Or it can easily be done with an Arduino and either pushbuttons or a toggle switch, for those more comfortable with a little programming and less circuit design.

Note that while the Singlet does include DCC stationary decoder functionality, it does not have to be hooked to DCC. The pushbuttons and LEDs will work just fine if it’s powered by plain AC or DC.

–Randy

24

Hello all,

Here’s one that many may discount.

What about a dual coil solenoid type built into the bridge abutment below the throw bar.

This thin switch machine could be mounted vertically inside the abutment. The switch machine would move the points directly.

If needed a snap relay cold be added to power the frog.

These are not slow-motion switches they move the points quickly. Some modelers do not like this action but for one turnout for a specialized purpose it should not present a huge problem.

Hope this helps.