On my HO layout I want to install manual switch stands where I can reach them and tortise slo-motion in the other areas. Which brand of ground throws are the best and where can you get them? I just won a bid on Ebay of 5 used tortise switches. What should I power them with and what kind of DPDT switch should I use. Thanks in advance
Roy
HI Roy;
Re Tortise: any DPDT switch will work, skip the on-off-on, and use a on-on type, and NOT momentary. Something like this will work fine: http://www.allelectronics.com/cgi-bin/category.cgi?category=700475&item=SSW-36&type=store
A DC wall transformer is a good power source, like DCTX-919 on this page: http://www.allelectronics.com/matrix/DC_Wall_Transformers.html
As far as switch stands go, I prefer a solution like PECO uses instead. There is a toggle spring that holds the points in one direction or the other, and just flick them over with your finger.
I used Peco for years and still like their simple action. My new module, however, uses Code 83, with Atlas switches, so I used Caboose Industries high-level switch stands. They’re oversize for HO scale, but I love the prototypical feel of turning the lever, and they have movable targets to give operators a visual cue to the swicth position, just like on the prototype. My operating buddies all like them too. For yards, Caboose also makes low-level ground throws that don’t look much like the real thing, but work great.
The bad news is they cost money - $CAD 5 for the ground throws and $CAD 8 for the switch stands - and that’ll add up on a layout with a lot of switches.
Here is another (Canadian!) source for switch stands - working and non-working, bulk packs available too:
Andrew
Scale size operating Racor switch stands in HO, for about the same price as Caboose? Hmmm. Methinks I better try one of those on the next switch I build…
Thanks Andrew!
I really appreciate the quick responces guys! The information has been great, thanks.