T-trak module idea

[Kentuckian]

After seeing @wm3798 posts about a N scale rolling lift bridge, it reminded me of the HO scale one I have. Hey, if you’re going to steal, steal from the best! It would need to be widened a 1/4” or so to accommodate two N scale tracks.

Assuming that there are no operational issues with the bridge, is this a good idea? I would put a keyed switch on it so that only one person could open the bridge. The recent T-trak show I participated in reminded me that the public likes to see trains move. But the automation would be cool! Maybe use the turbo train to re-enact the opening scene of the Blues Brothers?

Thoughts?

[Maletrain]

Well at least put a long section of track that goes dead on the non-pivoting side of the span when the span is up.  Or, better yet, have some pylons that that come up through the track on that side so that they would physically stop trains from going into the hole.

[wm3798]

My idea was to invest in the Kato switches that activate their crossing gates.  Set it up so the bridge is up in the natural position, and when a train hits the sensor, it drops into position.  Would probably need three doubles, maybe more, to pull it off.  But definitely a "dead zone" would be necessary.

If operators could be disciplined enough to approach the bridge at a lower speed, it could be a really cool feature to add to a set up.

Lee

[dem34]

This guy local to me actually did this, even with the same kit I think.

http://nyandlb.com/construction_progress2.htm

[arbomambo]

one of Fay Chin's modules has three operating bascule bridges...he simply 3D printed girder parts to add on to a double track KATO bridge to turn it into a bascule bridge.

[Kentuckian]

Hmmm. All interesting ideas. This will have to simmer for a while. Thank you everyone for the input.