I am currently building an n scale layout using Woodland Scenics Mod-U-Rail system. So far, so good, nice system! However, it is now time to install switch machines and I want to use the Tortoise. Using the WS system, base track (first level) is already 2 1/2" from the bottom of the layout and my second level is about 4"-4 1/2" mabey almost 5" up. Can the tortoise utilize a throw this long? Is this asking too much from this or any switch machine?
Using the WS system, I cannot get the machines up to the track, I always have to go from the bottom.
Also, any hints on installing these onto a foam base? I was thinking of just screwing them to thin plywood and then gluing the plywood to the foam. Good no?
For a layout base that thick, I cut a hole in the foam large enough for the Tortoise to fit, and fasten the Tortoise directly to the bottom of the turnout.
You would probably have to drill a hole at least 1/2 to 3/4 inches wide at the bottom for the Tortoise to be able to throw the turnout through that much foam.
Thanks for the reply and information. Unfortunately due to the WS design, mounting the switch machines directly under the turn-outs is not an option.
However, you think an enlarged hole at the bottom (tortoise end) will allow the throw to operate in that length? that would be an easy fix, I can just enlarge the hole at the bottom end right?
On my HO layout I also use WS foam products and have found you can mount the tortoise’s under the layout but you must use a thicker wire than provided with the tortoise. Longer too obviously. I used .45 piano wire and made the hole about twice the size you would normally. Works fine.
Same reply as I posted in another thread. Thing outside the box. Just because the Tortoise instructiosn show it workign by moving the arm back and forth perpendicular to the throwbatr does not mean that’s the only way they work. Take a look at the Remote Mount they sell. Just the actuating part, not the flexible cable. It’s not too hard to make up somethign simialr to that - in fact it’s a modified version of somethign that’s been aroudn the hobby for a long time. For another view, look at the way they show mouting Switchmaster motors. Instead of the back and forth movement, you have a J shaped wire dropped down fromt he top, the short leg of the J hooks to the throwbar, the long leg goes down to underneath the table, where it gets a 90 degree bend in whatever direction is most convenient for mounting the Tortoise.Move that arm back and forth rotates the wire which moves the throwbar back and forth. No precision alignment while workign under the layout, and if the track is already installed you can add this without figureing out a way to aboid drillign a 1/2" hole under the throwbar withotu drillign through the throwbar. Just a small hole down from the top. For better wear in a softer material like foam, use a piece of brass tube with the wire runnign inside it. That will keep the wire from diggign through the foam and throwing the whole thing out of whack.