ATLAS HO Scale Code 83 Manual Switch-Machine

[Anonymous]

Hello,

I am looking switches for turnouts. I bought tortoise switch machine & stationary decoder DS52. I am not sure if I will be able to install it, I believe installation is not that simple, it will need soldering and wood drilling .

I am looking at other alternatives also.

Difference between 540 Remote Switch Left between 542 Manual Switch Left ?

Please let me know your views/suggestions for the turn out controls.

Thanks again for the help..

Ken

[MisterBeasley]

The Atlas switches have built-in switch machines. The Manual one has to be physically flipped by hand, while the Remote one can be wired for electrical operation. The remote switch comes with a control button, and even a short piece of wire. A very short piece of wire, unfortunately, so you will need more if your layout is more than 3 feet across.

The remote or manual switch machines can be removed, and you can replace one with the other. You can NOT swap Right and Left switch machines. The switch machines are mounted on the surface.

Don't be afraid of drilling, soldering and wiring. They aren't difficult to learn, and once you have mastered them you will find there are a lot of other things in the hobby that will come much more easily.

[NZRMac]

I think the Atlas machines won't hold the point rail against the stock rail either, the tortoise will and will avoid derailments.

Ken.

[rrinker]

Atlas machines will hold the points against the stock rail - the solenoid has an over-center spring that maintains the tension even though they are not powered at all times. Indeed, applying continuous power WILL burn out the coils.
Only the Snap-Track turnouts come with machines, either manual or electric. The Cutom-Line turnouts do not have even a manual switch machine and need either the Atlas or Tortoise or some other brand to hold the points in position - or one of the manual methods like a slide switch and wire or Caboose ground throws.

--Randy

[dgwinup]

QUOTE: Originally posted by MisterBeasley

Don't be afraid of drilling, soldering and wiring. They aren't difficult to learn, and once you have mastered them you will find there are a lot of other things in the hobby that will come much more easily.

Drilling, soldering and wiring are, indeed, some basic skills that you will use throughout your model railroading experience. Don't be reluctant to try, all you can do is learn, even from the mistakes!

If you don't have the equipment, then you have just learned another valuable lesson in model railroading: Every project requires the purchase of a major tool. [:D][:D] Not necessarily expensive tools, but what better justification do you need to increase your collection of tools? LOL

Don't forget the safety rules of tool usage. Safety goggles anytime you are doing something that produces particles (wood, metal, dust, even gusts of air!). And don't forget which end of the soldering iron is the HOT end. (Voice of experience!) LOL

Darrell, hotly quiet...for now