Using dowels to align modules or swing out sections

[Medina1128]

I use dowels to align my swing up/down sections. I created the swing up/down modules as an alternative to lift-out sections. They are hinged at one end to either swing down or up depending on the space available above them. I started noticing that the dowels were getting tight after a while. I attributed it to high humidity causing the dowels to swell. To remedy the problem, I found that a light coat of Chap-Stik works wonders. 

 

[tstage]

A plain bar of ivory soap accomplishes the exact same thing.

Tom

[Medina1128]

tstage

A plain bar of ivory soap accomplishes the exact same thing.

Tom

 

I agree, but Chap-Stik fits into tighter spaces.

[Anonymous]

If you want precisiob alignment, look for patternmaker´s dowels.

[SouthPenn]

Banana plugs sould last foreve and not have the humidity issue. They could also double up as the electrical connection.

Banana Plugs. Available at Amazon, EBay, Mouser, etc

 

[doctorwayne]

I have two lift-outs made from 3/4" plywood, and simply fashioned "U"-shaped aligment supports from the same material, screwed to the layout's fascia....

Each of the liftouts has a wire with a male plug which fits a receptacle on the opposite side of the aisle.

 
I've had no problems with track alignment in the years that they've been in use.

Wayne