- Clinic:
How to install and ballast track.
How to install and de-bug switches.
How to install and ballast track.
How to install and de-bug switches.
Saturday, February 1, 2020
Bruce Hochberger gave a clinic on Saturday, February 1st on how to properly install and ballast track on a layout. He also shared the do's and don'ts of ballasting switches.
![](../images/20200201/202002-001.jpg)
Bruce provided a comparison of three different types of roadbed.
![](../images/20200201/202002-002.jpg)
A close-up of HO scale roadbed types. From top to bottom, fiber, traditional cork and foam.
![](../images/20200201/202002-003.jpg)
Bruce then provided examples of three track laying gauges. Here he is showing gauges made by FAST TRACKS.
![](../images/20200201/202002-004.jpg)
Here is an 18" radius curved gauge made by JMD.
![](../images/20200201/202002-005.jpg)
Here is a 20" radius curved gauge made by RIBBONRAIL.
![](../images/20200201/202002-006.jpg)
Bruce then talked about how to install a Tortoise switch machine.
![](../images/20200201/202002-007.jpg)
Bruce let the group know about the BVI TDG806 Switch Machine Kit which cuts down on the time it takes to install Tortoise switch machines on a layout.
![](../images/20200201/202002-008.jpg)
Bruce also showed how he installs manual throw switches using the BLUE POINT switch machine.
Photos by George Sinos