Geared Train Track Switch (Brio, IKEA, Hape, etc.)

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Geared Train Track Switch (Compatible with Brio, IKEA, Hape, AmazonBasics)

 

This train switch is designed for use with multiple wooden toy train sets, but it is particularly useful for battery-driven trains so that you can direct the trains onto different tracks. The teardrop switch was designed to point in the direction of the track so that it is easy to tell which direction the track is running at a glance.

 

This track was designed to be built entirely in PLA, but I have also printed a working switch using PETG for the small parts. 

 

.4mm nozzle

.2mm height

Supports only under the circular switch section of the track. Use supports on printer bed only. A support blocker is used in the 3mf file to prevent supports elsewhere. (It's possible to print this design entirely without supports, but this depends on your printer.)

 

Assembly

1. Slide arm into place with the teeth on top (toward the top of the track) and the smooth surface on bottom. Slide it in until it sits flush.

   
    

2. Align the guide so that the axes line up with the hole in the track and the hole in the moving arm. Press to snap in.

   
    

3. Slip the gear into place. The teeth should be on top (toward the top of the track) and the raised circular part should be on bottom. It may take some light pressure, but it will click into place.
   
    

4. Align the guide so that it would direct a train straight forward. Take the teardrop switch and point it in the same direction. Slide it into its hole and apply pressure until it snaps in. This may take a little wiggling and a little extra pressure. If you are having difficulty, you may want to take a hobby knife to the hexagonal connector to make sure it is smooth. (This step requires the most force.)

 

Note that the connectors are made with wide tolerances for maximum compatibility with track sets. (AmazonBasics tend to have tighter connectors than Brio, IKEA, and Hape.)

 

Share your makes and track designs!

 

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