I've done a brief search of the forum and looked through related articles in back issues of MR, but I can't seem to find a definitive statement about when to use a high switchstand and when a low one. Although I have a dim recollection of seeing a guideline somewhere, I thought it might be quicker to consult the rest of you. Is there a guideline on this, or does it vary enough that I can make up my own? Thanks.
High targets on switchstands are usually because of a need for visibility. Out on the line, they provide an extended distance for the crew to verify that a switch is properly set. Sometimes weeds or other undergrowth can be a seasonal problem, with the high stand poking above the clutter. The list can go on and there are probably other reasons they're used, but that's probably the biggest reason.
Mike Lehman
Urbana, IL
Strictly from a modelers point of view, High switch stands would be used on the mainline, while the short switch stands would be used in industrial areas and yards.
In the real world, I have seen the short switch stands used on the mainline on a little used single mainline RR.
Elmer.
The above is my opinion, from an active and experienced Model Railroader in N scale and HO since 1961.
(Modeling Freelance, Eastern US, HO scale, in 1962, with NCE DCC for locomotive control and a stand alone LocoNet for block detection and signals.) http://waynes-trains.com/ at home, and N scale at the Club.
If in doubt, consult the prototype, either through photographs, a copy of the, "Common Standards," or by putting your own footprints in the dust of the publicly accessible ground adjacent to the right-of-way. If you don't model your friendly home-town rail line, Google is your friend.
In my case, I've made successful hunts for such things as the shape and color of semaphore blades. The key fact (distant signal - yellow swallowtail with black stripe) was found in a museum loco photo. The semaphore was, "Scenery," not the primary subject. Odds are, American switchstand height data will be found in a similar manner.
Chuck (Modeling Central Japan in September, 1964 - with information taken off the internet)
Height did vary by road and by situation. On mine I did high for the main and low for all else.
rrebell Height did vary by road and by situation. On mine I did high for the main and low for all else.
Me, too.
Dante
Erosebud,
When you decide,what you would like to do, you may consider these:
http://www.njinternational.com/hoswitch.htm
Cheers,
Frank