I am looking at using Atlas Code 100 Customline #6 switches and had a questions. I would like to have powered switches and these did not come with switch machines. I saw that Atlas sold switch machines that attached to the side seperately and wondered if these would work.
They work fine. The biggest complaint is the looks. Several posts have discussed this and Mr Beasley and others have shown different ways to hide them in buildings, under carved out foam piles, etc.
Atlas also makes an under the table machine for those swithces.
One thing you want to remember with an Atlas switch is, it needs something to hold the switch tight. Their machines do and sprung Caboose Industry ground throws do also. The more elaborate under the table machines like Tortoise also hold them. Peco switches have a spring built in, I don’t know about others.
Good luck,
I would not recommend Atlas under table machines. I found them hard to install,they do not lock the turnout track and your roadbed can’t be thick because the throw pin is not long. And if you want panel indicators/signal lighting you have to add their snap relay because they are a solenoid.
The custom line turnouts are light years ahead in all respects of the old Atlas Snap switches. I would go with Tortoise switch machines or possibly the servo motors offered by Tam Valley Depot. Besides being a better made switch machine then the Atlas the Tortoise gives you a more prototypical movement as a real switch doesn’t snap from one side to another it moves rather slowly. Plus the Tortoise have an advantage over the Atlas in that you can use them to activate signals, crossing gates semifores etc.
I have no problem with the Atlas clip on machines. Sometimes, I have to flip the throwbar when the tracks are close together. I usually coat the machines with paint and sprinkle on fine ballast or ground foam.
Can you find them…
Nick
One in behind the tracks under the “blue” window??
Foreground one is nicely hidden under the shrubbery ??
Those hidden switch mechanisms really look good, as you have done a good job of hiding them.
On my next, best, home layout, I plan on going back to Atlas Code 100 for main tracks, while using code 83 for sidings and yards. My switches will all be custom line #6 or custom line # 8, with Tortoise mechanisms. I’m currently using Kato Uni-track which I find somewhat disappointing.
My only real problem with the Atlas side mount c-100 switch machines is that some of my equipment comes in to contact with the switch motor.
Wojo
Hi!
I’ve used Atlas turnouts and controllers exclusively on my previous HO layout (1993-2008) and on the one currently under construction. I have been very satisfied with them, giving good value and reliability especially considering the cost.
I use all of the popular options for control - that being above table, under table, and Caboose Industries SPRUNG ground throws. Let me say a little about each…
The above table machines definitely do the job, but can be an eyesore if they are in plain view. One easy way to “hide” them is to paint with a flat brown/green/black paint mixture - kind of like camo design. Be careful not to get the paint inside. You could also add a little ground cover to them - but again - be careful not to foul them.
The below table machines can be a major plus, but they must be mounted solidly and exactly and in a place where they won’t get knocked around. Once you get them right, they last and last.
Caboose Hobbies sprung ground throws are installed where they are close at hand, for sidings, yards, and engine terminals. Again, once you get them solidly installed, they will last a long time.
ENJOY,
Mobilman44
Yup you got 'em.
Thanks, Wojo.
Nick