Hi all. I have several Kato HO manual turnouts, both #4 & #6 left & right. I am considering purchasing add-on switch machines that will make them remote. Can't find anything about installation, operation, ETC. I have scoured the interweb with zero success. Any input would be welcomed. Also I purchased a Peco 3 way turnout, can you steer me to info on those turnout machines? Thanks, Jack.
I don't use switch machines and haven't seen anything that I recall on Kato machines, but I found this
There have been numerous threads on 3-way turnouts. The super duper software search of this forum finds all the turnout threads and not the phrase 3 way turnout.
Try this, it does not focus on switch machines, but the other problems with 3 way turnouts.
Henry
COB Potomac & Northern
Shenandoah Valley
Jack,
I used Kato track on my small HO layout and converted a couple of manual #4s to remote. I managed to find the boxes the remote switch machines came back in '07. They are Kato part # 2-504 for RH and 503 for LH . You also need to buy the control switches as a seperate item. They are a very easy conversion but you need to be able to get to the underside of the turnout to remove the manual control held in place with 2 screws. Also they operate on DC. My #6 turnouts were bought as remote and I think the process is similar but with a different motor. The Kato website should help.
CN Charlie
BumpyJack68Hi all. I have several Kato HO manual turnouts, both #4 & #6 left & right. I am considering purchasing add-on switch machines that will make them remote. Can't find anything about installation, operation, ETC.
Bumpy Jack:
I have only converted manual Kato #6 HO scale turnouts using the Kato switch machine. I do not know if other Kato turnouts are different.
On the #6 HO switch machine, it is simply a matter of removing and installing two small screws. DO NOT LOSE THE SCREWS! The new switch machines do not come with new screws.
Simply remove the old switch machine and slide the electric one into place. Then reinstall the two screws.
I have converted ten of these, and never had a problem.
The Kato switch machine operates differently from Atlas Snap Track or Twin Coil switch machines. The Kato machines use a DC signal that is reversed and applied momentarily by the controller. The slick Kato switch machine controller is the easiest way to do it. A DPDT Momentary Center Off toggle will work if you prefer, but it needs a DC power source.
They can also be controlled by a rectified center tapped transfomer and a SPDT Momentary Center Off Toggle, but that is even more work to explain.
Feel free to ask any more questions.
Note: The Kato electric switch machine only works on manual Kato turnouts, and will not repair a failed turnout that was electric from the factory. Original electric turnouts use a fully concealed switch machine.
-Kevin
Living the dream.