I need to change out some ties on some Ross switches. The switches were previously used with under-layout machines and I'm going to use dz-1000s. The long ties that would usually hold the dz switch machine was cut off as it was unnecessary for the previous owner. My dilemma is that the Ross track ties are pretty hard and the spikes are tiny! How does one go about applying them? I'd really like to use the ties, but I'm about to the point of giving up and gluing the ties on!
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I have never tried this, but Micro-Mark has some special tools for installing rail spikes. No idea how well this works?
Here is one of them I think there are a couple of other similar tools on their site as well.
The tool RTR linked to will make it easier but for just a few spikes I just drill the tie first with a bit slightly smaller than the spike. I did this on plywood and just used some mini pliers with serrated jaws that I already had.
Pete
Are you using Ross replacement ties and spikes?
FWIW, I used needled nose pliers to install O scale spikes in Gargraves wood ties when I made some specialty track sections and guard rails in the past.
If you are interested, I'll be happy to send you the O scale spikes you may need if you continue to have trouble installing Ross spikes. Email address in profile.
An afterthought: you've probably contacted Ross already?
Norton posted:Tjust drill the tie first with a bit slightly smaller than the spike..........some mini pliers with serrated jaws
And insert spikes - I use a regular pair of needle nose pliers usually - why use Ross ties? You could use ties from Kappler or other sources which are sugar pine or bass wood, and reasonably easy to spike into...
Thank you all for the input. I have Ross ties because I was ordering other items and just added them in. I haven't contacted them about installing them. If I am going to drill a pilot hole, it will have to be a drill bit about the size of a sewing needle. These spikes are tiny! They look like the real thing, but wow are they small!
Pingman, I will be emailing you shortly!
Basil posted:Thank you all for the input. I have Ross ties because I was ordering other items and just added them in. I haven't contacted them about installing them. If I am going to drill a pilot hole, it will have to be a drill bit about the size of a sewing needle. These spikes are tiny! They look like the real thing, but wow are they small!
Pingman, I will be emailing you shortly!
Invest in a pin vise and a set of drill bits #61 - #80.
I have at least 6 of these and buy the drill bits 10 at a time
MicroMark also has very small bits and a pin vice selection. Your LHS may have these as well, that is if you have one.
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