Atlas turn-off problem

[Buddy54]

I purchased the Atlas r.h. turn off remote switch No. 53.  The drawing on the package is NOT the same configuratilon of the actual switch and I can not figure out how to mount it, or which switch control box to buy.  No info is available on if it is a snap switch,or how it works.   It saiys, "insert knob in notch".  Not showing.  "Engage latching pawl", etc. No cluie. Please help!!

[GP-9_Man11786]

I looked at the various HO turnouts on Atlas web site. They all use a very similar configuration by whi h the switch machine is screed to a pair of backets on the side of the turnout. the machine has a smal needle that conects to the throwbar.

Here is a photo of one:

As for which controller to buy, Atlas sells only one kind. A word of warning, these switch machines can overheat very easily if current is applied too long. Therefore I suggest wiring the controller with a capacitor discharge circuit. 

Another option is to sily eschew the switch machine and operate the turnout manually with a Caboose Industries ground throw. These are much more aesthetically pleasing and a bit more reliable. I hope this helps.

[maxman]

I think I tried to answer your how is it wired question below.  Your new question is how does the switch machine attace to the turnout.  The following link shows how the assembly should look: http://www.atlasrr.com/Images/Track/Trackphotos/850.gif

If you manually move the switch machine manual lever back and forth you'll see that little whisker on the end move back and forth.  You need to insert that whisker into the hole in the turnout throw bar first, and then sort of roll the switch machine into place.

That flat plastic L bracket is made so that you can insert it between the switch machine and the turnout if you need to move the switch machine away from the turnout to give you more clearance for rolling stock if needed.

[rrinker]

 Which track are you using this with? The #53 (and #52 for left) are for Code 100 turnouts. If you are using Atlas Code 83 track you need the #584 and #585. They do not substitute for one another.

                        --Randy

[Medina1128]

When I built my first layout, I used Atlas turnout and switch machines. I would discover that the 10 megaton <CLACK> tends to loosen the rivets that hold the points in place. I plan to use Tortoise switch machines for my current layout.