Edit post

Edit your reply below.

Post Body
Enter your post below.
I really like Peco points because I have not needed to do any adjustments! The Peco system allows the switch machine to be mounted directly underneath the turnout for perfect alignment. I have had Qty 17 Code 55, N-scale tunouts installed now for about seven years. I use 3/4 inch plywood to give a solid mounting surface covered with 1/4 inch pine lath. I cut holes carefully for the switch machine with a jig saw and then covered the holes with wide scotch tape. After laying and aligning the switches, I pushed the switch machines up from underneath and bent over the tabs. This was easy to do as you could see through the scotch tape. paint and ballast can then be applied over the scotch tape. However I keep all ballast and paint away from the movable switch points and pivots to ensure mechanical and electrical reliability. Doing it this way ensures that the switch machine is properly aligned with the switch. Many train controllers do not throw solenoid switches properly. So I use a capacitor discharge circuit to give a strong surge that throws the points reliably. Circuitron makes a nice one. This combination has made my Peco points extremely reliable with no adjustments required. The Peco points are rugged enough that they mount reliably over the switch machine hole. It helps to fasten the swith with a few pins to hold it in alignment. The other type of switch machine that accomodates installation misalignment pretty well, is the Circuitron machine. This will allow simple accurate alignment with a small hole in the roadbed. I use these for Micro Engineering switches that have a very weak spring. For the simplest installation and wiring, always use manual operation. The Peco turnout is unique because the strong spring gives both excellent mechanical and electrical reliability without additional equipement. tonkphilip
Tags (Optional)
Tags are keywords that get attached to your post. They are used to categorize your submission and make it easier to search for. To add tags to your post type a tag into the box below and click the "Add Tag" button.
Add Tag

Update Reply

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Model Railroader Newsletter See all

Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!

Subscriber & Member Login

Edit post

Post Body

Tags (Optional)

Subscriber & Member Login

Users Online

Search the Community