1:1 Switch Drawing?

[Bob.M]

 I am looking at Gargraves and Ross switches to replace some Lionel O-22s. Does anyone know where I can get an outline drawing that I can cut out and try to fit into tight locations on the layout?

[phillyreading]

Have you tried their website's? That is if you want an outline.

Gargraves switches are similar to Atlas H.O. switches, they have a section of curve track that hooks up to the switch. On the 042 version of the Gargraves switch the straight section is around ten inches and the curve section is half of an 042 curve. I had a couple of 072 Gargraves but sold them, however one thing about Gargraves switches; test to be sure that you have electrical connection to all three center rails, inbound and both outbound rails(straight & curved). The other thing about Gargraves switches is that you lose an outside rail's electric connection at the switch. Last of all if replacing an 022 switch you will have to shim the bottom of the Gargraves switch, and use adapter pins from Gargraves to O gauge. Make sure about the correct adapter pins, Gargraves makes at least three differant adapter pins; 027, O gauge tubular, Atlas tracks.

Lee F.

[Bob.M]

phillyreading

Have you tried their website's? That is if you want an outline.

I looked at their websites, but did not find what I wanted. Maybe that is because, as my wife says: "You don't look good."

phillyreading

Gargraves switches are similar to Atlas H.O. switches, they have a section of curve track that hooks up to the switch. On the 042 version of the Gargraves switch the straight section is around ten inches and the curve section is half of an 042 curve.

The O-42 is what I was interested in, but was confused by the picture on Lanz's website (Wholesale Trains) which shows a separate curve section, not shown attached to the switch. At Gargraves, they do not show the loose curve section. I emailed Lanz, but have not heard back yet.

[hscsltb]

Bob.M

phillyreading

Have you tried their website's? That is if you want an outline.

I looked at their websites, but did not find what I wanted. Maybe that is because, as my wife says: "You don't look good."

[Roger Bielen]

When I was building my layout, about 10 years ago, I was able to order a set of full size drawings of Ross switches from them.  I copied them on the blueprint copier at work cut them out and stapled them to the layout till I could get (afford) the switches.

[Bob.M]

 OK, I finally figured out how to access the outline dwgs  and dealer lists at the Ross website. No amount of searching from within the website would work, but a Google search for "Ross custom switches" listed them first with "Dealers" and "Switch PDFs" links.

[Bob.M]

I successfully downloaded the .PDF file, and was able to print a full size outline. It only took 3 sheets of paper on the printer, then cut and paste. Now I can see how it fits in various locations on the layout.

Here is a photo of the switches:

Here is a jpg version of the outline:

A couple of things I notice:

1. The motor/actuator dz1000 does not show, so I can't really be sure if it will fit.

2. The ties where the actuator goes are extended in both directions on the outline, but not in the picture. Are they shipped this way, and I would saw off the ties I don't want?

3. The curve angle is 32 degrees, while an O42 curve track, Ross but not Lionel, is 45 degrees. Do I need to buy or cut a small piece of curve track to make up the difference?