Switch Machines

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I’ve discovered that NJ International Switch machines are no longer in production. If anybody out there knows where some might yet be available, your help would be appreciated. Paul

2

Paul;

Why do you want those track destroyers?

Try one Tortise stall type, and you will never go back.

If you are still wanting NJ stuff try:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=11644&item=5913000626&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW

http://www.genestrains.com/Product.htm

3

I couldn’t agree more with Nigel. I used twin pole machines for years, was never really happy with them, and spent way too much time messing with them. I switched to manual control where the turnouts were readily accessible and Tortoises where they weren’t. They are easy to install and very reliable. I could have saved a lot of time and aggravation by using them to start with. Try one and see what you think.
Have Fun,
Tom Watkins

4

GOOD MORNING PAUL:

I have a bueco (lot) of them how many do you need and how much do you want to pay. I’ve got Tenshodo, and Kemtron. I’ve used them for years and if they are installed with the spring like the instructions tell you, i’ve never had one destroy the rail switch.

I was not aware that NJ wasn’t making them anymore.[V] I installed probably over 200 of them and I like 'em.

Have a blessed day and remember SANTA FE ALL THE WAY

Bob

5

I’ve used Twin-coil selenoid type switch machines for years - Atlas, True scale, Tenshodo, Rix and NJ and never had one cause a turnout problem. "Destroy one? - - hardly. Someone else will pick up the (Tenshodo made?) NJ who merely imported them.

The MAIN reason for slo-motion switch machines - such as tortoise - is eliminating the electrical requirement for special momentary throw toggles - unless one likes to see the slow (3 second) delay and the challenge to throw the switch in time to prevent a derailments. Code 70 (or smaller) might benefit more from the motorized switch. How many on this forum are using code Shinohara or micro-Engineering code 70 50 or 40 turnouts? it’s predominantly Atlas and Peco code 100 & 83.

Twin coils used a spring wire to move the points. So does Tortoise and Torquemaster. Difference is constant application of 12 volts DC requirement, and conventional (not momentary) toggles.

Edit: To switch over requires complete revamping of one’s (turnout) electrical system.

6

RFMISSO:

are NJ relay contacts only - for subbing on other products.

7

Thanks for the input fellows. I’m beyond trying Tortoise machines as I would have to change all my panels and much of my wiring. I’ve had no trouble with the turnouts, it’s the machines themselves. A couple of them needed to be replaced for various reasons and I would just like to have 4 or 5 on hand in case of another emergency. Teffy - I don’t know how to get a hold of you, but I would be willing to take 4, providing you don’t try to bankrupt me. Paul

8

I’m sorry Paul:[banghead]

My e-mail is teffy@pernet.net. I have four new in the box. What is your e-mail?

Have a blessed day and remember SANTA FE ALL THE WAY

Bob

9

Paul:

I’ve sent you three e-mails and I can only conferm that one went through. Did you get any of them?

Bob

10

Bob. Yes. Answer is on your E-mail. Paul