I've previously used Gargraves fiber pins to create insulated blocks with expected results. I'm running out of my supply and the cheapest mail order options for just the pins are more than I want to pay once shipping factored in. Does anyone have experience with just leaving gaps? Any other ideas? Would the gaps work if I wanted 2 of the 3 rails insulated (worry about shifting?). Where I have lift out modules I just have the gaps and it seems to work as expected. Thanks!
Replies sorted oldest to newest
I always just do gaps. The pins are expensive and a hassle. I don't do center rail cuts on my layout, power districts begin and end at switches. The gaps are almost always in one of the outer rails for detection purposes. The thing to watch out for when doing that is rail alignment. Without a pin, it is possible to get a height mismatch, and thus a bump in the rail. Some shims will correct this. If you are really diligent, you can super glue some styrene to keep the gap from closing. Just rough fit small pieces, and trim when the glue is dry.
Niscott, Tooth picks will keep the rails aligned. John
Thanks Bigboy and Rattler. I used both of your tips and things are working great.
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
