General Discussion (Model Railroader)

No, the built-in contacts do not work well -- it is very difficult to get them properly adjusted as it is being installed, and to keep them working properly.

I have found that the "U" shaped contact spring needs to be spread apart slightly as the throw is being assembled or it doesn't make good contact, and I have had to use super-glue on some of the pocket covers to keep it from working back out of the pocket.

If I had it to do over again, I would not use these throws. 

Ditch the CI ground throws and use a slide switch.  You get 2 sets of contacts, no need to build the ground throw, and easier to install.

jktrains

I can't speak for performance over a long period of time.  I have installed them on four turnouts and they are doing fine.  With some tricks, I found them fairly easy to install. 

Before slipping the three prong piece into the hole, I soldered about 12" of wire to each of the prongs at the work bench, which was easy.  Then put the wires through the hole followed by the prongs.  I think to solder the wire on after installing the prongs, is very difficult. 

I then took the three wires under the table, and after crimping on spade lugs, took the wires  to a lug mount on my benchwork. screwing them to the lug mount.  In this way I can reverse the polarity later easily, if needed.   From the other side of the lugs, I ran wires to the frog and power feeds.  Also sent wires with resistors to the control panel for LED lights.

I found putting the spring and then the cover into the top, was difficult until I used my magnifying  head band and using tweezers. Then it was fairly easy, and works fine. 

Whatever you use, have fun modeling!  Hal