Tortoise Wiring Help

[erierailroad]

Hi, I just bought a Tortoise switch machine, and I am not quite sure how to wire it, but lets see. I am using Shinohara switches. Number 1 and 8 on the Tortoise are used to control the motor, but should I attach 2 and 7 directly to each point rail?

Thanks,
Jack

[rrinker]

The new ones, which are DCC friendly, or the old ones, which are not? It makes a difference. You actually don't need to wire either point rail to the Tortoise. See the 'Switches' section of Allan Gartner's Wiring for DCC site, even if you aren't using DCC. The techniques and information apply to DC as well. http://www.wiringfordcc.com/switches.htm

--Randy

[relation]

In the August 1998 Model Railroader on page 69 there is a picture that shows how to power the frog with a tortoise I have done several and it works good no problems at all.

[Anonymous]

Not to ask a dumb question, but why would I need to wire/power the frog on the crossover? I run DCC and I have 4 tortoises controlling the switches. Will my engines stop as the engines cross over from one side to other.

Thanks
Dave

[rrinker]

What sort of crossover is this, as in, what brand? Or did you make it yourself from 4 switches and a crossing? If so, what brand of track are you using?

--Randy