Also saves money.

One question I have, how do you prevent the spikes from rotating as you drive them in? Last time we did a siding without plates 1/2 of the spikes rotated 45 degrees or more due to the grain of the tie.

I see you are using untreated ties, how long of a life span do you tend to get and what type of wood?

Regards,
Rich Cizik
Ct Eastern RR Museum
Willimantic, Ct 06226

The ties are recycled guard rail posts and are treated wood. I have never had a spike twist once the spike starts in straight and have not seen many twisted spikes on the line even in regular hardwood ties.

Concerning spiking rail without use of tie plates and spikes twisting as they are driven. You might try pre-drilling your spike holes, if that's possible. However, if you are using new spikes, they should cut the wood fibers cleanly and go in straight no matter which way the grain goes.

The ties are treated, just not creosoted. They are actually salvaged highway guiderail posts, probably CCA treated.

After some finishing work Top of the Mountain run around was officially placed in service for Memorial Day weekend. Friday Dana moved the red flag to the end of the mainline and Fred did the first run around move at T.O.M with 52 and flat 126.



We also changed out the ground throw style switch stand with a shop built harp style switch stand on the north cross over switch. The harp style switch stand has more leverage for throwing the stub switch. A track crew went out this morning and finished lining this switch so the alignment looks a little better now.



First train of the day Saturday.













Last train of the day.



Dana ran 10 to the end of the siding for a photo op. Number 10 is as far north as you can go and 10's tank truck is sitting on a piece of original WW&FRy rail that was found while clearing at T.O.M

Especially at prices like these:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/RARE-OLD-VINAGE ... 1465273448

A couple friends and I have been mocking this seller for a week or so.