Tie Rods for HO & HOn3 Handlaid Turnouts | Roadmaster

Roadmaster Tie Rods for Handlaid Turnouts

Roadmaster tie rods provide a realistic, functioning alternative to traditional PC board throw bars for HO and HOn3 handlaid turnouts.

Designed to move both point rails together while allowing smooth turnout operation, the tie rods add an important prototype detail that is often missing from handlaid track.

They can be used when building new Roadmaster turnouts, incorporated into other handlaid turnout construction methods, or installed as an upgrade to many existing handlaid turnouts.

Available for HO and HOn3 applications in Code 55, Code 70 and Code 83 rail.

The tie rods snap into place around the point rails. A small amount of CA can be used to prevent side-to-side movement while still allowing the points to operate freely.

See the Roadmaster Tie Rod System in Action

See the Roadmaster Tie Rod System in Action

A mechanical, prototypical alternative to PC board throw bars—designed for long-term reliability and consistent operation.

• Eliminates solder joint failure
• Prototypical mechanical design
• Designed for long-term reliability
• Consistent performance in operation

February 27, 2025 – Tie Rod Design Update Announcement

We heard your feedback, and we’re excited to announce a significant upgrade to our tie rod design!

The updated tie rods are now made with a stronger resin and have been slightly increased in both height and width—substantially improving durability while maintaining the realism you've come to expect from the Roadmaster Series.

Additionally, we've introduced an alternative installation option: tie rods can now be slid onto the points before installation. While not our preferred method, it offers more flexibility for different modeling styles.

Our original design goal was to maintain true-to-scale dimensions, but through testing and user feedback, we've recognized that function and long-term durability must sometimes take priority in the modeling world.

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be upgrading all other tie rod designs to reflect these improvements.

We stand behind the quality of our products and your satisfaction is our priority. If you'd like to request replacement tie rods, we’ll send them at no additional charge. Just email jeff@ohrtracksupply.com with your order number, and we’ll ship them out promptly.

Thank you for your continued support,
Jeff Otto
Oakhill Track Supply

• Designed from prototype drawings for accurate realism
• Easy to install with trouble-free operation
• No more failed solder joints—points won’t loosen over time
• Accurately model 2, 3, 4, or 6 tie rod configurations (as seen in larger turnouts)
• Available in HO Scale, HOn3, and HO/HOn3 Dual Gauge (Left and Right)
• Compatible with Code 55 and Code 70/83 rail
• Holes accept 0.032" (0.81mm) music wire in both the center of the throw rod and the ends

Click here to download a pdf of Roadmaster Turnout directions