Spring switches

[whammer]

I'm wanting to build a layout with two return loops and using battery power. I'm looking for switches that are held in place with a spring so the train goes through the switch one way and on the return loop the points will move enough for the train to pass through and then when the train has passed the rails will be pushed or pulled back to where they were. I've read about people doing this in articles in the magazine. In the Feb. 09 issue Piko's switches were reviewed and it said that they have spring loaded points. But talking to someone at Trainworld and at Piko they said that yes they have a spring but Trainworld said that the points would have to be moved by hand before the train comes back around the loop and at Piko he said the points would move by themselves, but would move all the way over so that the next time around the train would go around the loop the opposite way. ?  If someone can direct me to the type of switch I'm looking for or an add on spring assembly  for old LGB  electric switches. Any help would be very appreciated.  Thanks Whammer                            

[PJM20]

Here is a good thread on the subject from mylargescale.com: http://forums.mylargescale.com/29-beginner-s-forum/17066-spring-load-switch.html

[ttrigg]

I hope I understand your question correctly. I have what I believe much the same system up and running for a battery power streetcar. The street car arrives at an LGB Manual Switch set to the eastbound branch. Streetcar makes the loop and is approaching the switch from the north. The points are set for eastbound. As each wheel-set enters the points, they move ever so slightly to allow the wheels to pass in the "wrong direction" WITHOUT derailing problems, and quickly snap back for east bound. As each wheel-set (axle) passes through there is a slightly audible clicking sound as the points return to the eastbound rails. 

The springs in LGB manual switches are soft enough to allow passage in the "wrong" direction without derailing problems. The same cannot be said for their electrical switches. I know there are "Upgrade' kits to convert manual to electric. I do not recall anyone with a "Downgrade" kit. 

Possible solution: Mount a spring from a ball-point pen to the underside of the switch so that the spring is pushing the point at about maximum reach. By playing around with the tension on the spring you should be able to achieve what you are looking for. OR: Try an HO ground throw with a weak (soft) spring.