On my HO layout I have 12 or so turnouts, and do not like the look of the switching machines on the side of the track. Is there a way of hidding them? Some are accesable from the underside of the table and some are on a mountain side or on the ekit of a trestle. Another thing, has onyone ever used Model Power foam roadbed. Mike
there are a number of under the table switch machines on the market…atlas, pecos, and Circuitron tortoise machines to name a few …I use atlas turnouts but really like the tortoise under the table switch machines,here is my web page album to show you how to mount the tortoise machine which in my opinion are the best for the money…they have a relay on them to power frogs and set off searchlight targets ect…click the next button to see the pictures with explanations on mounting the tortoise machine…chuck
http://community.webshots.com/photo/137793353/1245295018055249160tpquTj
Most of mine are under the benchwork but there were a few places where this wasn’t practical so I had to use the conventional kind. You are right that they stick out like a sore thumb. One idea I have is to paint the base a concrete color and fabricate some sort of electrical box to go on top of it. . I have seen pictures of these trackside in yards so if I can do it well, it might be a solution. Of course I have to make sure I have adequate clearance for the rolling stock but a preliminary look seems to indicate this shouldn’t be a problem.
EASIEST is topside ala Atlas.
BETTER is topside under a trackside RR MOW sheds
BEST is under table mounts - like Totoise (stall motor) or Rix (twin coil).
RECOMMENDED: (SPDT contacts to energize metal frogs).
http://www.rixproducts.com/6280005.htm
http://www.rixproducts.com/rix_products_listing.htm
I use the Rix machines with the flat mount and they work well for me.
Two precautions with a Rix machine. First, use a capacitor discharge unit. It eliminates the buzzing and provides enough power for a solid throw. Second, before you install the machine, remove the lever and metal slug and remove all flash and burrs with a file. Don’t forget to check for burrs in the slot in the center of the metal slug. Then rub both pieces with graphite before you reassemble them.
Hope this helps.
Tom