I am using Peco code 100 streamline turnouts, and already have the motors in place (standard Peco motors, PL-10 and PL-10E). I would like to wire relays to the motors so I can run other accessories like signals and control panel lights based on the turnout position. Can anyone tell me (a) what type of relay I should use and (b) how to wire it to the turnout and the accessories? Thanks, Martin
I can’t say about relays, but to control them you will need one of the switches that Peco make to add to the motors.
PL13 is single pole and PL15 is double pole. They’re glued on the bottom and operated by the other end of the wire that moves the points. I’ve only used the SPDT switch.
If you can’t get get to the point motor, I’ve mounted a microswitch at the end of the throwbar. Low marks for looks.
Peco PL-10 turnouts motors are dual-coil actuators that NEED momentary action SPDT switches,or as some prefer,individual normally off push putton switches.The choice of switch model is a matter of choice,as long as power is applied to the TO motor only for a short moment.Any switch type that will keep power on the coils will frye them in no time.
This being said,you will need a switching device that will get thrown by this momentary power and stay in the position until power is applied to the other TO motor coil.Peco’s PL-13 are indeed a great solution as they were meant specially for this purpose.Atlas also sells a neat relay called the “Snap relay”.It is not attached to the TO in any way but is wired in parallel with the TO coils and changes contact points as the TO is thrown.Featuring both NO and NC circuits in both positions,it allows a wide array of uses,like frog power,light systems,etc.This relay (Atlas no.200) is like the TO motor and won’t survive constant current to it’s coils but should do just fine for your purpose.