Hey guys
Im starting to work on my 4x8 layout just a little more in the track division. But, the manual lionel 1121’s are causing alot of troubles. Ill make spurs, and they will make them elcetrically dead. Also, they short out some times. Im getting really frusterated at them. I have two K-line manuals, and I absoulutly love them, they are ultra reliable(no problems yet)
Im wondering what I should get now. I would like Kline remote ones, but they are a little bit more pricy. Im really looking for a old switch.
Here is a list of possibiltys…
Marx remote or manual
Lionel 1122 Remote
Lionel modern manual or remote
Tell me which ones are the best
Jerry
Jerry,
I pick up my K-line low profile switches for $25.00 each delivered and they have been very reliable for 7 years now.
The few pennies that you save now may cost you much more in the future.
tom
Jerry, keep in mind that with some fish line, some springs or small rollers - you can make your manual switches into “operating” ones, controling them at the front of the layout. Now the new K-Line switches might be more of a challenge in this, because of their low profile and the very small lever on them. But once I get my hands on one, I know I can come up with a way to do it. I know I can.
Just a thought for you to consider. The switches that are at the back of my layout are operated manually from the front with fishline and springs. I’ve done this for years with no problems. I actually prefer it this way: no problems with switches running off track power and no problems with trains sitting on the “live” rail of the electric 027 switches activating the non-derail feature and thus drawing current from the track power.
While I love the old Lionel 1121 and 1122E turnouts, I have to say the newer K-Line low-profile turnouts are outstanding - nearly trouble free. They are definitely worth the extra cost.
If you really want an older turnout and don’t mind manual operation, consider the Lionel 1024. I’ve frequently found them on Ebay - very simple, durable turnout.
I have five of the ‘new’ Lionel manual 027 switches and they work fine - no problems at all.
John, The lionel 1024’s look like very reliable, simple, strudy switches. Might have to give them a try. I have seen them in junk bins at swap meets for $2. [:D]
Tom,I think Ill buy some k-line switches when I have a larger( and more permanent) layout.
brianel, The fishline idea sounds very interesting!
Thanks for you help everyone!!!