I’ll admit, I’m a newbie.
Does anyone know the tie spacing (and size?) for track on a modern plate girder bridge?
Can I use DCC to control switches and turnouts?
Thanks for all the help guys! Your insight on this forum has been invaluable!
Don’t know the answer to the first question, However, the answer to the second question is yes, with the caveat that a turnout is the rail device that causes a train to change tracks and a switch is the electrical or mechanical device that activates the turnout. A switch machine is the mechanical device that moves the turnout.
DCC can control the switch machines.
Can I use DCC to control switches and turnouts?
Answer YEs all you need is a decoder and a dcc system and a switch machine and you can have dcc powered switch track. Most people dont do dcc for either its too expensive or the enjoy toggle switched more.
Check out HERE http://www.digitrax.com/prd_statdec_ds52.php
30 dollars a piece isnt that bad if you dont have that large of layout but if you doo it could get pricy.
Wecome to the forum,
To help with the 1st question on plate girder bridge. Many newer plate girder bridges are a ballasted deck. If it is open frame the ties are close spaced (approx self spaced) thicker to the point of taller than wide.
A good open plate girder bridge is the Central Valley. This kit comes with the bridge ties. You have to glue the track on. Not difficult, the ties have locating “spikes” that can be peened over the web then glued.
Micro Engineering makes a fantastic bridge flex track in 36" sections. It is excellent in quality and detail.
The 2nd : Stationary decoders can control the switch motors (Tortoise etc) in DCC. They can even be controlled by radio throttles.