Question: laying points on gravel/chippings...?

[beavercreek]

Hi Jon
I did use Vaseline in the past but, if the track is open to the blazing sun, the vaseline tends to dissipate after time.
I now use Castrol engine grease (the LGB/Aristo ties are not affected by it) put on with a small flat head brush. I had some in the garage and put two and two together.

 

[PhilP]

Thanks Giz, I've got the LGB graphite paste for that.... I was thinking more of the grease that Mike said he uses on the connections and bus bars under the point, where I'm assuming it's simply to protect them against water - in this case I'd think you want something that is an insulator rather than in any way conductive, you certainly don't want a risk of shorting between the current-carrying strips from using anything even partially conductive...?

Jon.

Neither the LGB graphite grease, or Copperslip are conductive to any degree.. They just stop the oxygen and moisture getting in.

 

[Martino]

I`ve been using this stuff. Dries. Not gungy or messy. Does the job well.

 

[Zerogee]

Thanks, Martino - anyone know if it's readily available this side of the pond?

Jon.

 

[CoggesRailway]

Hi Jon, thought I would join in as I use exactly the product you proposed- 6mm lime stone chippings. They work well and I just have points laid as per the rest of the track. I use occasional pressure treated timber (of any kind!) to maintain geometery and distance to other tracks where needed about an inch below (so a longish screw) and this gives additional purchase in the gravel bed. (not needed generally just in tricky areas where it seems to have ideas other than mine!)

It does get into the point blades occasionally, but I just wonder round with a fine screw driver and flick out anything I find at start of play- but not a problem. I am not sure the tiles under the moving area will help as it will just find its way across- unless you are going to have some sort of barrier to lateral migration.

I wouldn't bother with cement it locks in well without and it will be annoying in the future.

Cats DO NOT poo in this in my experience despite there being a lot around here and everyne saying they will. I think it is too heavy sharp and locking to make them get that urge.

Finally don't worry it will look very light almost pink when first laid. then the rain will wash the dust to the bottom and it will go prototypical grey. A hose on fine spray mode can hasten this if you don't fell patient!

Ian

Pic of said chippings