As some members will know, my particular 'bag' is the Southern Region, and my layout is based around the early to mid 60's as steam was on the way out. As a result, from a more realistic standpoint, I'd like to install a third rail to my code 100 Hornby track, so can I ask what others have used, either DIY or branded? Keith.
Hi Keith. To date, I have used Peco components. On my previous layout, I had code 100 track, and added code 75 (N gauge) rails using the Peco third rail chairs (pots). After some experimentation, I countersunk all pots into the sleepers to get the tops of all rails roughly level, to ease track cleaning and also clearances for out of gauge models. Notwithstanding that, I still had to cut off the way out of gauge and scale sand pipes on all of my Lima class 73 models! On my current layout, I have laid third and fourth rail on the lower, LT lines, and intend to lay third rail only on the upper level, when I get there. This time, I have used Peco code 60 rail, but so far, I have used the same Peco pots. It was even more important for ease of maintenance to set all the rail tops level, for track cleaning and maintenance reasons, and again for clearance reasons. I have recently purchased some C & L third rail pots in brass, with a view to using those at the ends of some of the rails, as the plastic Peco pots have a tendency to pop off while laying the rails, and even once in a while afterwards, although I do try to bend and shape the track to reduce the tendency to straighten up on curves (which places extra strain on the pots). I haven't yet laid any more rails to try out the brass pots. I was going to post a photo, but Photobucket is down, undergoing some maintenance at this time. I'll come back later to add a pic.
Thanks for your advice Jeff, been looking on the internet for info and discovered Peco IL-120 conductor rail chairs, IL-1X code 60 rail section and the SL-210X rail joiners, all of which Hattons stock, so it's looking like another order in their direction shortly. I'm thinking along the lines of catenary to the diesel depot, changing to 3rd rail a little way out, as happened at some depots (and mine is entirely fictional!) so should look OK with my DJ Class 71's when I get them (maybe December, but hopefully I may see Dave Jones at Warley for an update!). Keith.
I still can't post the pics from Photobucket, as they are still down with problems. My layout is entirely fictional too, but I think I'll skip on the overhead ... for now! Let us know if Dave has any news on the 71s, as I have two of those on order, and even a sound decoder with legomanbiffo's sounds on waiting for somewhere to install it.
Dear messrs Keith M, SRman and others, Re third and fourth rail I suggest you read Scalefour Central London Area Group site ( clag.org.uk ) which has a section devoted to 3rd and 4th rail fittings, including details of a jig to make the fitting process a lot easier. When I was in the UK a few years ago I noticed that the power rails were black which I had not noticed in photos. So what causes the power rails to be black ? SRman do you use your 3 Rd and or 4th rail for current collection ? Best wishes and regards, Echidna
For laying the centre fourth rail, I made a jig from scrap brass. The outer rail seems to be more forgiving and is laid by eye, drilling the holes just inboard of the sleeper ends on Peco code 100 track. My third and fourth rails are purely cosmetic. They are also incorrectly laid with the tops flush with the running rails' tops, purely for practical reasons.
Photobucket has finally become available again. I have probably posted these pics before (elsewhere) but hopefully these show some of the effect. You can make out the centre rail drilling template in the wagon, here. The raised edges sit between the rails, allowing the holes to be drilled in a fairly precise position, thus avoiding any zig-zag or kinked effects from the centre rail. I need to solder a patch over the template hole and re-drill it as the hole has enlarged over time and multiple drillings, making it just a little less precise.
I think Charlie Petty (of the 'Legomanbiffo outfit) is going to be at Warley, so I'll be heading his way for a listen to his Class 71 project. I have 3 of the DJ models versions on order so could be an expensive day out! Shame he doesn't do Zimo, but got to give ESU a chance to redeem themselves after my previous experience. Keith.
Two rails is enough for me it is good to see the third rail be modelled though. Something different. Keith, it's unlikely that I will make Warley ( again ..... The jinx of Warley ) I have Elgin this weekend coming, Poland from the 8th until the 13 th December and I have hung myself out to dry with SWMBO for some decorating before Christmas. So apologies as it would have been a great meet. I am trying to plan ahead for next year starting with the usual pilgrimage to the Glasgow show in Febtuary and will be open to suggestions for another show early in the year as well as any potential exhibitions that may be on the horizon.. Again ...... Apologies. Also apologies for the hijack. Toto
Nahh! Three, or even four rails are better!! :evil: :evil: Ignore the bit at the left-hand end of my tracks - I haven't laid the extra rails yet (it is quite a back-breaking job).
