Switch Machine review-N scale

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I have reviewed several switch machines. The first one I reviewed was
Atlas below track mount. It has not been approved as stated, the activing arm flexes to much and can not activate the the turnout. The relay idea is great, the just need to change the arm from plastic to metal.

The next switch machine was the Tortoise, the problem with this machine it is typical to the Atlas. If you use the remote Tortoise mount it will work just fine. The cost of both items add up to $ 25.00 its not a bargin.

The switch machine I prefer is the Torquemaster it preforms just as they
say it should. And can be used on any scale. But can be tough to install if anyone requires additional information on installation please reply.

2

I’ve just replaced my twin pole machines with Tortoises, screwed to the subroadbed directly under the turnouts. I replaced the stock wire which is about .025 with .032 piano wire and they are working great. I think using heavier, less flexible wire makes a difference

Tom Watkins

3

Yes, I agree that changing the wire out will approve the Tortoise switch machine. But it is a shame that we have to rework a product that should work wright out of the package. If you have a chance try out the Torquemaster it works great.