Ross Yard Switch Application Question

[dbaker48]

Plan on placing a switch order today, and had spent the last few days reviewing the plan for most cost effective approach,  so had the following considerations;

To accomodate switching between two main lines, had the following alternatives;

A. Using the #4 Double Crossover - cost $469.95 (1)

- Concern re: smaller engines being able to pass through regarding roller spacing, and whether or not with all the switching in a small area, is this going to be a major trouble/derailing spot.  Also, functionality is dedicated for that single application.  

B.  Using 2 #4 Yard "ladders" Switches - cost $189.95 (2) $380

- Little less expensive, requires more linear length, when compared to above, but the complexity of the switch is somewhat less, and may improve engine variation and compatibility"?"  Self debat been trying to factor out is if this is 3.5" between rails, and that will  or does accommodate "yard" activity, is it too close for "mainline" activity?  In the yard cars are moving slow, and can be quite close.  On the main, bigger engine, might become an issue especially if they are oppossing?   "Could have a little more capability for different applications, but still somewhat dedicated functionality"

C.  Using standard switches, - cost $79.95 (4) $320

- Least expensive, and most versitable.  Also requires the greatest amount of space.  Could relocate transition points elsewhere on the layout, reducing high density transition points.  Probably the "safest" in terms of engine compatibilty and pass thru issues.  Greatest veritility, can be used for anything.

So the more I think about it all the more I confuse myself.  Leaning toward the switch alternative.  Cost advantage ($150), and versatality, I probably will have the same engine issues regarding pass through capability and the roller spacing in all situations.  

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions

Kurt - The Libation Station is UP and fully functional !!!!!  It works well ! hic, hic 

Kurt, Roger and Frank thanks for your inputs ! 

 

[kpolak]

I think Chris' Libation Station should be within the layout or at least set-up along the main line.

Oh, ... and it should be bigger...

Kurt

[Roger Bielen]

Don, have you considered Ross's double crossover?  It'll take less overall length for installation.  The downside is that I believe the track spacing is 4" or 4 1/2", don't recall and too lazy to run out to the train room with a measuring stick.

[ChiefEagles]

Don, should work.  I've got 072's paired in several places on my mainline.  I've even used 072 switches as several curved sections on my mainlines with the straight sections as the "turn out".  Run engines and trains at high speeds and no problem.  

[dbaker48]

I'm intending on using a pair of the #4 Yard Switches (left and right) as a double cross over for two main lines.  Now given that on a mainline you SHOULD minimize switches as much as possible, does anyone see a major issue with this concept.  i.e. yard tracks to close together?  Switch has 3.5 " track centers.

 

 Overall layout track plan below, the area I'm reffering to is at the left side.

I have considered 4 individual switches, however the foot print is larger (longer), distance between tracks is larger as well.  (Benefit)

Any thoughts?