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I am using Tortoise switch machines, which are very tricky to install. I have found a method which, at least, makes the installation a little easier.
The leaflet that comes with the Tortoise machines calls for a 1/4 inch hole in the table top. I think it is better to use a 1/2 inch hole.
Get some double-sided foam tape, or, better, some Scotch Foam Molded Squares. These are available at "Ace" and most hardware stores. The foam squares are double sided and about 1 inch square.
After drilling the 1/2 inch hole, position the turnout lever so it is right over the center of the hole, with the turnout switch lever engaged half-way. Make sure the turnout is nailed down to the tabletop in its final position.
Place the Tortoise switch machine underneath the board and extend the spring wire, of the Tortoise machine, up through the hole and into the little hole in the turnout lever. Get the spring wire to go just a little above the turnout lever, but don't let it protrude so far that it clips the loco coming down the track. If it protrudes too far, get a thin piece of plywood (such as 1/4") or any wood roughly that thickness. Cut a square or rectange so that it covers and fits the top of the Tortoise machine. Then put the 1/4" piece of wood on top of the Tortoise and try again. This should allow the spring wire, from the Tortoise machine, to go up through the turnout lever hole, but not far enough to clip off the loco. You could just cut the spring wire a little, but the spring wire is very sturdy and not easy to cut. You could saw it with a hacksaw, but that might cause the spring wire to bend a little.
One you have done the above, if you have had to use the 1/4 plywood rectangle or square, glue it onto the top of the Tortoise machine. After the glue dries, then place the double sided foam tape or Scotch foam mounting squares on top of the Tortoise machine or on top of the 1/4 inch plywood after gluing. Use permanent mounting Scotch Mounting Squares or foam tape. Press down hard on the double sided foam and place the machine underneath the tabletop hole. Extend the Tortoise spring wire into place. If you push up on the Tortoise, the foam tape or foam squares should hold the machine to the underside of the table top. Then test the Tortoise machine so that the turnout lever slides completely one way, then the other. Make sure the track switch pins go fully open and fully closed.
If everything is ok, then mount the screws, for the Tortoise machine, to the underside of the board.
Richard
Posts: 1909 | From: Santa Rosa | Registered: Jan 2004
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