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I have developed a simple method which avoids long couplings between switch machine and turnout. I cut a rectangle of .060" styrene to fit the turnout. The turnout is mounted on the styrene sheet with heavy duty double-sided foam mounting tape. The switch macine is glued with acrylic adhesive caulk to the underside of the styrene. The wire link between machine and turnout passes through a hole drilled in the styrene. The turnout and switch machine are now a single assembly which now can be mounted in place on the layout. Cut a hole in the foam to accomodate the switch machine. The turnout is connected with rail joiners to the track in the normal manner. I model in N scale and the combination of .060" styrene and the foam mounting tape matches the thickness of cork roadbed. You might adjust the thickness of the styrene to match other scales. This method results in a short, direct connection between turnout and switch machine which can be done at your workbench without ever crawling under your layout. <br /> <br />By the way, I don't use any plywood with the foam insulation board. The two inch or more foam has adequate strength all by itself. The plywood is an un-necessary additional expense and weight. <br /> <br />Jerry Smith
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