Fast Tracks

Last night, I cut the gaps in a pair of N Scale #10 Turnouts assembled in a crossover. Unfortunately, when I did so (using a Dremel with a thin cutoff wheel), the solder joint just below the lower gap broke on one of the point rails on each of the turnouts.

I'd like to clarify whether or not the point rails should be glued down when there is a web below them. In the video Finishing Your Turnout with Quicksticks, Tim says (paraphrased), "don't glue down the point rails" and "put a bead of glue along the whole web." grrrrr....

Second, related question: what's the best way of fixing these loose point rails?

Third question: is there a way of keeping the Dremel's torque from kicking the points loose? One of the frogs also "hooked" and slewed sideways.

I think the best way to cut gaps in turnouts is to use a jewelers file with a .010" blade. If used with the turnout well supported in the cutting area and only using downward strokes it is quite easy to cut gaps with no distortion of the turnout parts or soldered joints.

Have you considered using a variable motor speed controller to reduce the Dremel's RPM?

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Now waiting for a better currency exchange rate before I order.

I have a jeweler's saw, but unfortunately I got ahead of myself, assembled the crossover and glued (actually, caulked) it down to the roadbed before cutting the gaps. I have another crossover to finish, and hopefully will remember to cut the gaps AFTER gluing the Quicksticks and BEFORE caulking the assembly down.

It's a variable speed Dremel (actually, its a Dremel tool in a Craftsman suit), at lowest speed already.