Ultimate turnout control protection - 1
I
started building modules, I knew that I wanted remote turn-
out control. This is the method I use to keep my control
switches from getting damaged. The modules get moved
around a lot and this has worked awesome for years now.
The turnout controls are flush-mounted in the operator side fas-
cia, and control the turnout motors mounted under the table.
My controls are mini momentary center-off toggle switches,
mounted to 1 ¼” “tips” from Ace Hardware. Spring-loaded
momentary switches are needed for twin-coil snap-action
Protect your turnout
controls from getting
hit accidentally ...
Ultimate turnout
control protection
– David Salsbery
Model Photos by the author
machines like Atlas and Peco. For stall motors like a Tortoise,
use a standard toggle switch. The toggles are mounted into a
¼” hole drilled into the frame. A 1” hole in the fascia material
gives access to the control (1).
Ultimate protection for traveling
This same method could be used for larger toggles but you
will need to use a larger cup or tip, like a cap for PVC plumb-
ing material, and larger holes. The mini toggle switches and
the tips are nice for modules as they are low profile, which
helps protect them from damage underneath as well as from
the outside.
The modules have a mix of Atlas and Peco turnouts and switch
machines. They all work great, but I like the Atlas products a
little better because of the lower profile of the switch machines
and their quiet operation.
1
1: Recessed toggle switches are protected from
damage and accidental use.
MRH-Feb 2014
