I've been frustrated with the Atlas under table switch machines in HO and replaced them with Tortoises (that are definitely more expensive). Maybe try one Atlas machine before committing to a lot of them.
The Caboose Industries ground throws are oversize, but still a lot smaller visually than the atlas above table things if you are OK with manual throws.
CC
I'm running an N scale, shelf layout that's +/- 18" deep. I use Peco switches and manually throw them. I like doing this way and the switches are about $21 each. I do have 2 turtles on the layout that I use to automatically switch two turn around loops. I "manually" throw them with my DCC controller, but it takes longer than just snapping it over.
Anyway, hope this helps...
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Jlockk I had the idea of uninstalling the motor and putting it under, but I have no idea if this will work. my 2 questions are if this will work, and if not what other options do I have for a budget of only 20 dollars per swich?
Atlas makes an under table switch machine https://www.hobbytown.com/ho-ngauge-under-table-switch-machine-by-atlas-railroad-atl65/p80762
Perhaps a manual switch plus the under table machine would be close to your budget.
I have heard of attching the switch machines upside down so they do not sticlk up as high (flat bottom up)
Years ago I read an article on making under table mounts for the above table machines.
Have you considered PECO switches. They have a spring that holds the points in set position. No switch machine needed. A lot of Model rails prefer manual. where they can reach the switches.
http://www.blwnscale.com/peco-electrofrog.htm
I tried to sell my two cents worth, but no one would give me a plug nickel for it.
I don't have a leg to stand on.
I am building a n scale 4x8 layout with Atlas code 80 track, and the track plan I am using includes 21 swiches. My first layout was a very small one, being only 5 square feet. It has one manual swich, and I dislike the look and funtionality very much. If I had many thousands of dollars to spend on the new layout, automatic swiches with invisible motors would be my choice, but that is just not the case. I am willing to pay up to 20 dollars per swich, but most high quality swiches don't seem to fit that budget. My current favorite choice is the usual atlas automatic swiches offered by atlas for 18 dollars on Modeltrainstuff, but the motor on the side is bothering me. I had the idea of uninstalling the motor and putting it under, but I have no idea if this will work. my 2 questions are if this will work, and if not what other options do I have for a budget of only 20 dollars per swich?