I've started planning work on an HO streetcar layout inspired by San Francisco's MUNI E/F lines, contemporary lines using modernized historical equipment.
Any suggestions as to where to get appropriate HO scale towers for the overhead wire system (I will not be powering the layout via the overhead wire). If none are available for purchase, I could use advice on how I can get specs for 3D printing of such towers.
Thanks!
Juan
look at alpinemodels.com and see if they have what you neeD in "trolley supplies".
Cheers
GARRY
HEARTLAND DIVISION, CB&Q RR
EVERYWHERE LOST; WE HUSTLE OUR CABOOSE FOR YOU
Juan,
catenary for streetcars can be quite different, depending on whether the cars are equipped with trolley poles for the electrical pick-up, or more modern pantographs. Recent systems use pantographs.
Building a working catenary system for a line using trolley poles is quite difficult and requires an utmost precision, while "normal" catenary systems can be build by using read-made components from companies like Sommerfeldt in Germany.
Sommerfeldt HO scale catenary is available from Euro Rail Hobbies.
Looking at google streetview, the MUNI system uses a single trolley-style wire instead of caternary, suspended by either arms off streetlamps or from another wire strung between poles across the track.
I know Proto:87 shops sells some fittings for doing overhead wire which may be useful, but I have no experience on their quality or required skill level.
There is a wealth of info/products on this site for just about any Traction, Trolly, Streetcar and Light rail systems. Where to get parts and how to's. Do a little navigating on the site, there are many things that You should find interesting. You may even consider joining the club. Instructions and how-to's about using/wiring Peco's cantenary system, where to put the wires etc. for just a static model without the wire being powered as You said You would like to do. Take a look:
http://www.trolleyville.com/trolleyville.shtml
Good Luck in Your Endeaver!
Frank