After many years of building my layout, I realized the Lionel 022 & 072 switches were hard to make look realistic and build scenery around. So I recently bought 2 RH & 2 LH Ross "tubular" switches, stupidly assuming that the term "tubular" meant compatible with tubular track--which they are not and they are not even close to replacing an 022 switch in profile or height--so I am returning them.
My question is: Has anyone tried to modify a Lionel switch to get rid of that big switch machine that off the left or right side of the switch and takes away any realism. I have 3D printers and have considered trying to make the Ross DZ1000 replace the Lionel switch machine.
Anyone every looked into this or done a wiring diagram of the 022 switch to see what would have to be done? Or are there switches out there that are a compatible replacement for the Lionel post-war switches.
Any help or ideas would be appreciated.
Ken