Peco switches using Tortoises

[Anonymous]

Has any one used a tortoise switch machine to control a HO Peco switch. I used a stronger control rod then comes packaged with the tortioise machine, but it still didn't work. I did some testing and found that using a tortoise with a modified Rix under the table switch control worked well, but you have to lenghten the pivot arm of the Rix to match the tortoise's throw. I'll do this to all 11 if I have to, but is there a easier way.

George

[BR60103]

I have two Peco switches using Tortoise machines and a number using Rix mounts.
The trick is to remove the spring that holds the points over.
Just beyond the points there is a little plastic dohickey that holds one end of the spring -- the other is in the tiebar, just by the operating hole. The dohickey is held down by two metal tabs. Use a fine screwdriver to pry up the tabs slightly and slide the dohickey away from the tiebar a bit. This will lighten the spring pressure. You can also remove the spring entirely -- watch out as it's small.
This operation may be required on any Peco turnouts that are operated by a springy wire; just make sure that the switch machine is the type that holds the points over.

[Anonymous]

Thanks so much David. I'll give it a try.

George

[buckeyestation]

QUOTE: Originally posted by swal46

Thanks so much David. I'll give it a try.

George