I was wondering what other people use for switches and under table switch machines on their layout when using 1" thick foamboard over a sheet of plywood. any info on this wold be a great help.
Thanks
I can’t help you, but please be patient. At least two people I know will almost certainly get back to you within a couple of hours. Hang in there.
Welcome to our forum, Woody. You should get lots of support and feedback here.
For HO, Peco switch machines mount directly on the bottom of the turnout, and you can just take a chunk out of the foamboard to accomodate it.
Take a look at the May issue of Model Railroader. On page 84 there’s a description of a simple linkage to connect under-the-table machines.
A tototise will work even through a 1" foam. You will have to replace the actuator rod with a longer and stronger one, but it will work just fine. As far as the turnouts, Peco are the best that I have used.
That is what I have done. Replaced the wire with a slightly heavier guage and a tad longer. Works well. I use Atlas and peco switches, but must admit that the peco turnouts are better.
I also plan on using a tortoise switch machine, but using Walthers / Shinohara turnouts. I’ll be working through 1" of foam on top of 3/4" plywood. I’ve been told by several people that this will work just fine.
For the switchyard I’ll be using manual turnouts, as they’ll operate faster, give more “hands-on” operation, and cost a lot less.
Mark in Utah