switch machines under table

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

Any one out there know what’s involved in installing Peco switch machines under the table. I have used spline and homasote for my sub roadbed and was trying to figure a way to install the switch machines. Thanks in advance!

2

The Peco machines have 4 little clips that attach to the turnout, the pin goes up through the hole in the turnout, I cut a hole in the hoeasote and took out enough roadbed, there is a rather large hole there that can be covered up with a bush or other scenery material,

3

I run Peco’s and have spline in some sections. What I will be doing to overcome this problem is to widen spline in the area of the switch machine and then I’ll bore out the centre of the spline where the switch machine is to sit under the turnout.

4

Use Tortise machines instead of the Pecos.

5

I wrote a lengthy explanation of this on this forum a few months ago. I’m only putting my switch machines under the homasote. Check for the machines with the extended arm – that might be long enough. I just bent the lugs outward and screwed them to the roadbed. If you can cut the hole in the roadbed, attaching them directly to the points is best.

6

I use Peco motors attached directly to Peco switches, and I’ve never had a problem with them. Some of mine are more than 15 years old.

Hiding the hole is a problem, and I’ve solved it by sandwiching a piece of styrene sheet between the turnout and the motor, so that once the turnout is in place the styrene covers the hole. I also glue cork to the styrene to match the height of the cork roadbed.

It’s kinda difficult to explain, but if you’re interested send me an email and I will send you some photos.

7

Thanks gyuy’s. Those are some great ideas.

8

I’m moving my switch machines under the table as I rebuild my layout. Everything I read says to use music wire [piano wire] to connect my machines to the throw bar of the switch.What size wire do you use and where can you buy it,my local store hasn’t a clue.I am using rix machines now but am going to tortuise as needed and I know the wire is included with the new machines.

george