Review point rodding.
Review new signal pole/lights.
Discuss their installation.
A shorter work session this week as were going out for our Christmas lunch. We were also joined by Chris Holmes, who was able to review the work we'd accomplished on the point rodding, all instigated during his last visit - fortunately, he was impressed.
Chris's presence made it easier to resolve some outstanding design issues. Stephen presented two new 'signal poles' he'd made for the stop signs and lever frame. Much smaller brass tube had been used this time, made possible by using the tube for the LED power return. One pointing up was for the lever frame and one with LED bent horizontally, for the stop signs. After discussions, it was agreed that the lever frame light should be around 6ft off the platform, to allow it to be seen from around the station. It was also decided that it and the other signal-lights should be flashing. Geoff and Chris conferred about an appropriate bit of kit from the early 60's, which meant a slow flash rate. (A suitable circuit for 'slow flashing' is already available). A tubular guard rail approx. 3ft high was deemed suitable. Discussions followed about the switch enclosure box design. It was agreed that an enclosed, lockable wooden box would house the three switches and measure 12"-15" wide, x 6" x 6". It would have a sloping top and a drop-down front door that would have the track diagram on it. The bell would be fitted to one end. The box would be mounted direct to the light pole at approx. 5ft off the platform. Using a pair of AAA batteries, the LED's were illuminated. The clear plastic body of the 1.8mm dia LED's did not spread the light very well, resulting in a very narrow viewing angle, but a light rub-over with fine emery paper made them much better. Holes were drilled in the baseboard and the components fitted for review, and approval.
The wording for the two stop signs was discussed and the need for something simple was stressed e.g. "STOP until signalled to advance" (or similar). Geoff explained that the whole signalling exercise would have been imposed on the railway who would carry out the least expensive solution possible.
The preliminary manual switch arrangement for the the three lights was demonstrated and checked for clearance under the modified scenery edge - bags of room!
Geoff had been able to advance the paper mache overlay to the new scenery-straightening exercise. However, it was taking a long time to dry-out thoroughly, so trimming it would have to wait for another week.
Lunch was excellent!
