I used RR-Track, too. I chose to use Ross switches, but Gargraves for all other trackwork. The reason was one of appearance. There are numerous areas in the design where I took advantage of using the flexible track transitional curves, et al. Gargraves is the exclusive manufacturer of flexible track in the wooden tie genre (Ross also markets this GG item because of its uniqueness and compatibility). I also decided that if I was able to use pre-formed sectional curved track (per RR-Track) I would do so, rather than custom bend all curves using the flex...an unnecessary PITA, IMHO. Ergo, in order to keep the no-spike appearance consistent I chose using GG sectional curves. Frankly, I believe the Ross switches being spiked gives them a special, 'busier' appearance that seems appropriate for their special role. All in all, I'm happy with my choices.
Re modifying an accessory to make this sort of accommodation: TEHO. Were I faced with your specific 497 issue, I'd modify the accessory base to simply accommodate the GG 108 Operating Track, and call it 'done!'. I won't be around when the layout is dismantled (I'm in my 78th year). The layout and all that's going into it is for me. Nothing is an investment except in pleasure and happiness. But, I accept that others may seek to keep things without alterations.
I did have a 6-14107 version of the accessory pass through here. My wife is very much into this hobby, too. She has a secondary market business, largely in support of our LHS which, as my second career, I retired from in June 2020 after 21 years. One of her clients had the modern 497 in the collection they were disposing of. It needed some small repairs/cleaning. In short order it was working perfectly and sold quickly thereafter. It was/is, indeed, a nifty bit of action when working properly!
One other alternative to the Lionel UCS and GG 108 version thereof that I have used in my coal yard is the Atlas Accessory Rails set. They're simply the 4th and 5th rails of the UCS-type tracks. It was very easy to mount them onto the GG wooden ties at the appropriate accessory location. They do a fine job for any sliding-shoe actuation. In another area of the layout I fabricated my own version of the Atlas concept using some #14 solid copper wire from left over house electrical cable. Easy to make, less expensive, ...not quite as 'glamorous', maybe.
Again, let us know how you resolved the installation/track.
KD
