Switch machines

[Anonymous]

I'm about to build a small layout. I had a bigger layout many years ago and tore it apart but saved a lot of the accessories. Now i find that I have some old PFM switch machines which I want to use. I figured out the circuit to operate the throw but I don't have an instruction sheet that shows the other wiring for signals or power routing. Does anyone still use these units and if so, can you tell me how to wire the other contacts?
[8)] Peter

[bcammack]

A little cursory research via google.com indicates that those might be made by Tenshodo. The Tenshodos are "snap" type.

The only reference I can find is that the San Diego Model Railroad Club uses them and an inquiry directly to them might get you the information you need.
http://www.sdmrrc.org/

Good luck!

[cacole]

Kemtron, Tenshodo, PFM, and NJ International switch machines seem to all be the same product sold under different names over the years. NJ International still has a Web site showing one of their machines, and they sell replacement contacts. The contacts are just single-pole double-throw electrical contacts that are moved from one position to the other by the switch machine's lever. If you can't find a schematic on the NJ International Web site, it shouldn't be too difficult to figure out what is happening by just watching the contacts as you move the machine from one position to the other.

[Anonymous]

Thank you all for the info. I'll try to get NJ international on the web and see if I can get the circuit layout.