[Geochurchi]

Hi, looking for pics and instructions for building turnouts on a 7.5 gauge RR, thinking of remodeling the current ones.
Thanks
Geo 🇺🇸

 

[MGates]

Geo,

There isn't much in the way of ride scale here as we primarily focus on G scale/Gauge 1. I was able to find a helpful thread that someone over on Large Scale Central put together about building a #5 turnout using EP Plastics Accutie turnout kits. Even if you don't have a kit and want to build it custom on wood, the techniques used should still be helpful to see.

7.5 inch Gauge Number 5 Turnout Build

In previous posts, I showed the building of a point to point 7-1/2 inch gauge track around my house. Those track panels are completed and ready to lay (this is a portable track and no different than a “G” layout using “snap-track”…although a “little” larger). To help in the loading/unloading of...

largescalecentral.com

-Mike

 

[Greg Elmassian]

Where in the US are you located? I would find the closest local club, and you might be able to piggy back on their buying quantites (shipping costs!) and experience.

Greg

 

[Martan]

I only do G scale but I've had good success enlarging turnout plans from these guys - Fast Tracks HO Printable Track Templates for Turnouts
They are PDF files so you can scale them up. I haven't done it in a while but I made a page a long time ago- Building a G Scale Turnout | MartinSant.net
I would imagine you could scale them up to 7.5. Martin

 

[Greg Elmassian]

I would guess that Geo is searching for (rereading his post) is different techniques for mounting throwbars, whether he undercuts the point rails or notches the stock rails, etc.

The geometry is much easier in larger stuff and you can use bolts and regular fasteners.

 

[ncdodave]

Go to the beginners live steam group on FB. there are lots of folks who can help you. I am waiting on a set of drawings for my NG 7.5" layout. Ill be using G gauge as a "live steam" park layout within my NG 7.5" ga.

 

[Geochurchi]

Hi Greg, that’s exactly what I am looking for.

 

[Greg Elmassian]

I would look for the prototype styles of switches on the internet. Your scale is large enough that what works for the prototype would work for you.

There are pro's and con's to each type, from a stub switch, to the notched stock rails, to the tapered and undercut point rails.

Also, some variations in frogs too, although you might not want to run flange bearing frogs unless you can standardize flange depth on all wheels.

In addition, I doubt you would utilize any of the super high speed turnout designs, some have moving frogs, but a lot of complexity.

Stub switches are very easy to build, but not the smoothest, i.e. not best for mainline, but more in a switchyard, or engine yard.

It's an interesting subject, and might also be influenced by your rail material, i.e. steel vs. aluminum, although most all new construction seems to be aluminum.

Best of luck!

Greg

 

[Geochurchi]

Hi, switches are all installed and have been for years just looking for a better way to operate them.