Switches and MOC

[yoshi98bc]

I've recently started trying 7 and 8 wide rolling stock but the models seem to be hitting the little yellow switch stands in the turnouts. I know a lot of you model in these sizes and I am wondering if there are length constraints in 7 and 8 wide models in order to prevent the models from hitting the yellow switch stands. For example can a 7 wide model only be 44 studs long, 8 wide only 40 studs long, etc? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

[yoshi98bc]

Well. I think I may have answered my own question. You have to make sure the points are aligned for the intended path of travel or the trains hit the yellow switch stand.

[SavaTheAggie]

We use the switches without the yellow part.

Added benefit of preventing little kids from throwing a switch during shows.

--Tony

Edited February 23, 2016 by SavaTheAggie

[LEGO Train 12 Volts]

You can find different solutions:

- rise up the body of your locomotive above the yellow part

- let the front bogie turn free indipendent from the main body

- reduce the front size to 6 studs while the body is 7 and 8 studs wide

[garethjellis]

Use giant switches

my 64 stud coaches roll straight through them.

[cgarison]

My 53-55 stud long by 8 stud wide creations have no issues with hitting switches on standard lego switch tracks, although you have to be careful how you decorate the layout around a standard curve.

[baard]

Hi

It helps to remove the yellow part and modify your switch mechanism, then you will get more room for any overhang. Look for posts on how to modify switches and you will see many examples.

Good luck!

[Brickthus]

I use points without the yellow levers but the next question is how to motorize them without the trains hitting the mechanism.

Techniques to motorize them with LEGO motors here.

Techniques to motorize them with pneumatics here and here.

Mark