ok guys... I'm in the beginnings of my new layout and I have a reversing loop at each end of a large U. I'm using gargraves switches for this. My question is where do you get the right spring for this application. I've read on here that plenty of guys have done it, I just don't know if there is a specific spring for this or do I have to figure out how to rig my own. Any help would be appreciated.
Jeff
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I use a piece of piano wire, not a coil spring. The trick is to use the right amount of tension, just enough to hold the points closed, but not too much that the weight of the lightest car can't push it over.
There are 2 spring switches in this picture, in the red circles. The wire is anchored at one end, the other end goes through the hole in the throw bar. A screw is used as the fulcrum allowing you to set the tension.
Thanks Elliot. That looks simple enough. Now if I just had some piano wire. Lol But seriously thanks.
Jeff
Jeff, K&S metals at the hobby store. One thing about that wire is it is very hard, and requires a special cutter or a Dremel with a cut off wheel.
Here's a link, try #501. I want to say that's what I used. Maybe even #500.
We have used the piano wire for eight or ten years and have found it to be very reliable. The trick, as mentioned above, is to get an appropriate tension.
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