I am a novice in powering Peco turnouts and the peco switch machines do not seem to have enough power to move the turnout. I have the machines operating but they will not throw the switch. I has tried three different machines on three different turnouts Any suggestions?
It sounds like you have an inadequate power supply for the Peco switch motor, which requires a pretty hefty jolt to overcome the spring in the Peco turnouts.
What do you have as your present power supply with which you’re trying to throw the Peco turnouts, and what gauge and type of wire are you using? What’s the output voltage and amperage? If it’s a cheapy toy train power pack it doesn’t have enough amperage.
You probably need to build or acquire a capacitive discharge power supply, change your power supply, or change the gauge of wire you’re using.
I had a friend make a Capacitor Discharge Unit for me so i could throw 4 to 6 turn outs at once
You can buy them from Walthers
Yes, a capacitive discharge circuit is exactly the solution. I ran into the same problem with my Peco machines.
If you’re handy with electronics already, it’s a snap to build one. If not, it’s actually a terrific “starter project” for putting together stuff like this. You’ll need these skills as you advance in this hobby.
I have some Pecos, and I’m using an old TRAIN SET power pack to run them!! Check your voltage - sounds like it’s too low!! [:)]
The peco point motors should be connected to the accessory side of your power pack at 16 volts. They only take a momentary burst of power to move them. You do no need large gauge wire.
Jim.
If I recall correctly, the tension spring on the turnout may need to be adjusted to a lower setting. There is a plastic slider near the tension spring that is between the moving points. Moving it one way increases tension, moving it the other releases tension. My experience was that the switch machines can’t move the points with the tension set to the high position.
George V.