n15 locomotive

A MODEL RAILWAY

How to improve the look of a Peco code 75 turnout

The slide show on the right is a step by step guide to my method.

The objective is to get closer to the appearance of the prototype around the tie bar area whilst retaining as much of the Peco mechanics as possible. Here is the brief:

  • Infill the missing sleeper portions
  • Eliminate the large block
  • Cover holes in sleepers and tiebar
  • Retain finger operation of turnout switch, i.e. the Peco sprung locking mechanism
  • Retain Peco point motor fixing points and control
  • Facilitate retrofit of the original mechanics without recourse to glue etc.

Note: In the example, 4 bolt cosmetic fishplates were also fitted. The painting method is shown in the slide show.

modified peco turnout

New Spring Retaining Clip (Slide 3)

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Material: plasticard
Size: 10mm high x 3mm wide x 1.5 mm min. to 2mm max. thick
1st Hole (fixing): On centre line 1.5 mm from top edge
2nd hole (spring retention): On centre line 2.5 mm from top edge
3rd hole (fixing): On centre line 1.5 mm from bottom edge.
Hole diameter: 0.6mm
Chamfer: each top edge a little.

Note: If a point motor is used and fails to switch because the spring is too stiff then remake the cover with the 2nd hole closer to the right hand side.

An eight part series supporting this How to.. appears in my blog.

Materials

  1. Plasticard , 0.5mm, 1.5mm and 2mm thick.
  2. 2 x Peco track pins. or similar 0.64mm diameter
  3. Plastic liquid glue
  4. Grey car primer spray paint
  5. Black electrical insulation tape (rail running surface masking)
  6. Drinking straws (painted rail masking)
  7. Your choice of rail and sleeper paint colour (See slide 10 & 11)

Tools

  1. Scalpel
  2. Small flat file
  3. Pin chuck and 0.6mm drill
  4. Metal mm rule
  5. Razor saw
  6. Small long nosed pliers
  7. Badger paint sprayer
  8. Selection of small paint brushes

© Copyright 2008-2011: David Smith. All Rights Reserved.