Tracklaying

[Anonymous]

Hi, I'm just about ready to start laying track, and I saw on another thread that putting in Tortoise Switch machines before laying the track is much easier.
I was also wondering what else can be put in as well before putting the track down? I plan on going the full nine yards with signalling systems, occupancy detection, crossing signals etc.
Also, I'd like to put in occupancy detection in a hidden helix and staging yard. Is this recommended and at what point do you locate it in the helix (beginning and end or in the middle as well)?
Regards

[challenger3802]

Putting in switch machines is certainly far easier when the track is not glued down, however you will need to have it in temporary position, a good way I've found is to use drawing pins to pin the track down to the cork roadbed (you can tell what I'm using as a roadbed can't you!) With the track pinned down it's easy to see where switch machines need to go, wiring can also be done at this stage.

For the power connections to the track I solder 16/0.2mm wires to the sides of the trackwork (outside edge), channelling the wires down holes drilled in the trackbed 2 or 3 tiebars back.

Signal positions and on-track detection systems can also be put in at this time, before the glueing down happens. In this way if you need to reposition the track for any reason, or to drill extra holes, it is a lot easier to do.

As for occupancy detection in a helix and hidden storage yard, I'd want extra detectors at the entry and exit to a helix and more inside, relayed back to LEDs on the control panel. In this way I'd be able to see which way a train is facing in the helix at any given time, as the LEDs will light and extinguish with the movement of the train. (Although I like going over the top!)

Hope this helps you
Ian