I normally do not build hinged point turnouts because they take extra time. On the Bronx Terminal there are some very short points that need to be flexible and not put a strain on the solder joint on the throw bar. Some are as short as an inch long, many closer to an inch and a half and a few more normal length. To be consistent on my build, I have made them all the same way. I have not only hinged the points but also what I call as hinged throw bars. They are not really hinged but that’s how I think of them as not being soldered. Tim Warris has an excellent video (without narration) showing this process 16 years ago! I finally tried it and I think it turned out pretty good. The idea is that you solder the points to small spikes that are inserted into holes drilled in the PC tie (with the copper removed). This way the spike can twist a little in the hole and not be so ridged that the solder joint will break as the point moves. With “hinging” the point on both ends it also requires less pressure. I still upgrade the Tortoise wire to a thicker wire to make sure the point is tight against the stock rail.
Below you can see a looping gif in action and a jpg with better resolution. The next time I make one I will take pictures of the process. I build the turnouts then come back later and do the throw bar just before I am ready to do the install.
