I am installing Kadee undertrack uncouplers (#308 I think). There is a metal backing plate called an “intensifier”. Do I really need to use this. The magnet portion is exactly the thickness of the cork roadbed, but with the plate added, it becomes slightly higher meaning I have to cut a slight recess into the subroadbed (a pain in my backside). In the past, I used between the rails which are a breeze to put in, but this time decided to go with the “realistic” look. Secondly, is there any advantage to using Atlas’ deluxe under table switch machine over the regular UTSM besides price? O.K. I’m cheap and don’t want to spend extra if it’s not necessary and I gain little. Any help/suggestions are greatly appreciated.
You need to use the plate. It’s called an intersifier because that is what it does. Test operation with and without the plate.
The “deluxe” Atlas machines have relay contacts, which may be used to drive indicator lights or signals. The standard machines don’t have these contacts on them. If you’re not planning on wiring in indicators, then you probably don’t need the deluxe ones.
I’m assuming that you’re using Atlas turnouts. They don’t require any additional power routing beyond the frog. Some turnouts do require extra wiring to power the frog end, particularly if you don’t want to rely on point-to-rail electrical contact for this. That would be another reason to use the deluxe switch machines.
The #66 are OK but check the thickness of your installation. You CAN NOT change the wire in this machine. I HAD (6) still have (4) in use. 1 Failed and would not throw full in both directions. Started OK but just partialy died. (Yes I have a CDS using Digitrax DS52’s). They are thin and hoped they where made a little better than they are.
I have 138 Tortoise that are perfect all the time. If you space out getting them it is worth the expense [2c]
We are using the good old Kadee in the ties. Wentfor operation not looks. Have about 10 under tie units and they area PIA to install with the plates.
I use them without the plates. I use Woodland Scenics Trackbed and with the plate, the height is above the top of the Trackbed. I didn’t file or route the area udnerneath in order to support the plates. I’ve had no issues using them this way. It is not optimal but works for me.