Has anyone had any experience with the Rix switch machines? It’s hard to tell from the pictures I’ve seen of them. Are they slow motion, stall type machines? How do they compare with the Circuitron tortoise? They seem to be less expensive, but I don’t see much mention of them.
According to the Rix Web site (Google is great for finding stuff like this) the Rix Switch Machine is a twin-coil snap-action machine, not a stall motor.
Cacole,
Thanks so much for the info! Has anyone had any experience with the Rix switch machines and mind sharing their thoughts?
The Rix Switch Machine is basically and enclosed version of an NJ twin coil switch machine at a couple of dollars cheaper. Personally, I now prefer the Circuitron Tortoise slow motion switch machines.
The RIX machine is a Twin Coil under-table upgrade from the Atlas. It offers DPDT capability for powerig frogs or lights.
I say ‘Upgrade’ as i found it is more powerful, offers DPDT capability,and can be mounted horizontally or vertically with the RIX mounts - while still using the Atlas (momentary) switch buttons, and AC or DC source…
Use of ‘Stall Motors’ requires totally different powering - Mounted Toggles, and a DC only power source.
I’ve used them, and prefer them over NJ’s for 1 reason. When powering dwarf signal trackside, they have a more dependable contact set than NJ’s.
I’ve used them and have since converted to Tortoise machines for the locations that are hard to reach and manual operation for the locations that are easy to reach. In my opinion the Tortoise machines, while more expensive, are the way to go for powered turnouts.
Have Fun,
Tom Watkins