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Turntable Question

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  • Member since
    April 2003
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Turntable Question
Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, January 20, 2004 12:29 PM
On some turntables, I have seen a structure over the turntable track in the center of the turntable, which would go over the locomotive. Does aybody know what this is and what it is used for? Any help you can give me would be most appreciated.

Sincerely,
Daniel
  • Member since
    September 2002
  • 7,486 posts
Posted by ndbprr on Tuesday, January 20, 2004 4:09 PM
If you mean the arch most turntables are run by geared down electric motors at one or both ends and need a source for power. The arch supports a big set of commutator rings that allow the turntable to turn without getting the cable all wrapped up. the control house can vary by railroad but can either be at the center or on one edge where it is easier to line up tracks.
  • Member since
    December 2001
  • From: San Jose, California
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Posted by nfmisso on Tuesday, January 20, 2004 8:30 PM
QUOTE: Originally posted by trainjunky29

On some turntables, I have seen a structure over the turntable track in the center of the turntable, which would go over the locomotive. Does aybody know what this is and what it is used for? Any help you can give me would be most appreciated.


Hi Daniel;

We are assuming that the structure you are referring to is like the one in the second picture on this site: http://www.bowser-trains.com/hoother/ttables/ttables.htm.
Nigel N&W in HO scale, 1950 - 1955 (..and some a bit newer too) Now in San Jose, California
  • Member since
    May 2003
  • From: US
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Posted by randybc2003 on Tuesday, January 20, 2004 8:59 PM
That's for "modern" turntables. On small (60' or less)"old" turntables for small locos, which were made of wood, this was a part of the structural frame. the track was "hung" from this center frame w/ steel rods. The wood framing rested on the turntable's piviot race, which bore the load. These small tables w/ this frame were called "gallows" turntables. These turntables were turned by muscle power, and also called "Armstrong". Look up Sothern Pacific narrow gauge, etc.
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, January 20, 2004 10:25 PM
Dear ndbprr, nfmisso, and randybc2003,
Thank you very much for your replies.

Sincerely,
Daniel

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