Life Like Power-Loc turnouts

[skippygp123]

I have read the posts concerning the Power-Loc turnouts and using the remote switches.  I, too, purchased some Power-Loc track and turnouts for my grandson and we're setting up a small layout in the basement.  I'd like to use some sort of toggle-type switch to control the turnouts.  I'm confused as to just which type to get.  What is a single-pole, double pull switch that one of the people wrote about?  How do you know if a switch is "momentary contact"?  There are no hobby shops near where I live so I'd have to order something through a catalog or online company.  Does anyone have any suggestions regarding reputable companies that handle small parts for people just setting up a train set?  Who (or what) is Walthers?  Thanks, for any help you can give me. 

 An old grandpa who wants to play with his grandson

[Anonymous]

I got a chance to call Walther's Tech Service today about this.  For those who are interested, the Atlas 150-56 is the same thing as the remote switch for a Life-Like Power-Loc remote turnout.

You need a momentary contact, Double Pull, Center Off, spring loaded.  I had to re-solder the wire to the connection board on the switch, but nothing a little Cat-5 wire couldn't handle!  :))

Mike/Nightshade

[KlickyMobster]

Yes, but those atlas switch boxes won't work with a power loc switch unless you rewire the switch (i'm pretty sure).

[jeffrey-wimberly]

This is the switch from Walthers.

http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/150-56

 

[KlickyMobster]

The power loc track switches are weird because they have all internal wiring with just a plug you put in.  It looks a lot like a dcc socket on both ends.  Of course, this also means a special wire.  I think I know a guy that does the train show route in my area who has powerloc switches for 3 bucks a piece, so if you can find a deal like that...just buy new ones!

[TheK4Kid]

Sounds like cacoles advice is probably the best, and least expensive.

 Ed

[TheK4Kid]

Walthers bought Life Like, so I pulled out my new 2007 Walthers HO catalog.
On the page for Life Like track, they don'r show a separate  electrical switch for the remote switches.
However on page 299, Atlas lists a separate "Switch Control Box", far right hand column, about halfway down the page, cost is $3.75 perswitch.
Catalog number-part number 150-56

Hope this helps.

 Ed

[cacole]

When you say "Remote Switches" is it safe to assume that you mean the push-button switches that would be used to change the turnouts?  I hate to recommend Radio Shack because of their prices, but if you need only a few push buttons you can get them there.  If you need a lot of push buttons, look at purchasing in bulk from someone such as All Electronics at http://www.allelectronics.com

All's catalog numbers MPB-1 and MPB-1B are priced at 10 for $3.25, and Radio Shack would probably want that much for just 2 switches.  Of course, shipping must be considered when ordering by mail.

Atlas push button switches for their turnouts would work, too, if you have a local hobby shop that handles Atlas track components.

[TheK4Kid]

I'm not sure if Atlas remote switches will work on those switches or not.Actually I would think they would, they are basically the same type of switch.
Do you have a local hobby shop anywhere nearby that carries parts for Power-Loc?
I think Power-Loc has website, not sure what the uRL is, you might try an internet search.

Anyone else have any answers or ideas?

 Best of luck
    Ed

[Anonymous]

I purchased a Lot of Life-Like Power Loc track on e-bay for my son's small layout in his room.  The wiring for the turnouts were cut and no remote switches were sent.

I see where I can go inside the switching mechanism and maybe re-solder the wiring....but I'm not sure about the remote switches.  Any ideas where I can find something that will work?

Mike/Nightshade