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I have developed a simple method for mounting turnouts on a foam layout. I'm using Atlas code 55 N scale turnouts and the new Atlas under table switch machines but you should be able to adapt it to HO. Tortoise switch machines can be used if you prefer. Key to the method is a rectangle of sheet styrene cut to fit the switch machine and the turnout. The turnout is mounted on one side of the styrene with double-sided foam mounting tape. The switch machine is mounted on the other side with adhesive caulk. Foam is removed with a hot knife from the layout to accomdate the switch machine. The whole assembly is then dropped into place and the turnout attached to the track with railjoiners. A little adhesive may be needed around the edge of the styrene to keep it firmly anchored. The turnout assembly is constructed at your workbench and there is no need to crawl under the layout to mount it. Because of the low profile of the Atlas switch machine and the 2" foam which I use as the layout base, the turnouts can be placed anywhere without concern about interfering with cross supports under the layout. <br /> <br />By the way, no plywood being employed in the layout I am building. Two inches of foam have adequate strength to support the layout. Steel studs are used to build open grid benchwork. Photos of the benchwork can be found on the Mississippi Valley N Scale website. http://mvns.railfan.net/augustaphoto3.htm You can navigate to additional pictures of the layout from this page. <br /> <br />Jerry Smith
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