[smokey]

I did a search and couldn't find what I was looking for- I saw a write-up in one of the mags about converting Atlas switch machines, the ones that click onto their switches, into under-table machines (might actually have been a side-bar to a feature... I don't remember). Seems basic enough, yes, but I thought the guy had done something to increase the throw pressure for tighter points.

I've been going thru my old MR mags but can't find it. Maybe 'Craftsman? Anyone know the article I'm talking about or got a link to something similar?


Thanks.

 

[Lownen]

The "Tortoise" is the machine of choice for most people.

http://www.sptrains.com/800-6000.html

By the way, I understand mechanical turnouts using Tortoises last far longer than snap type turnouts with the switching mechanism built in.

 

[smokey]

Yeah, I know about those (have one to operate a double x-over section- saw a write up in an old 'Craftsman mag- way cool), but this was to keep from dropping so much $$$ at once and they'll fill the bill for now. I need to get the switches under control right now (I've got little weights holding some open or closed!!) and this was a pretty groovy little 'bash.

I've got all the track work done and wired a loop to keep the boy interested during the slow, tedious parts (That 6yo attention span is hell :laugh. I'm working out a few minor bugs right now- some nasty transitions or flex-corners, a couple switches causing derailments at random, stuff like that.

I r&r'ed a couple locos the other night and let a double-headed frieght (hah- a little 2-4-0 leading an F3 ) go 'round and round, which was cool enough, but I'd get a derail here and there and, dag-nabit, I won't have it!!!