Just completed installing two new MP1 switch motors, from www.modelrailroadcontrolsystems.com, under the almost impossible to reach lower back mainline turnouts. I was able then to run the switch motors from the fascia with indicator LEDs and toggle SPDT switches. Since I have now figured out how I want the turnouts wired, I can move on to easier to reach other main line turnouts.
Working on the design of the layout fascia. Questions about what to put on the outside surface, how to attach it, how to paint it, and other small details all to be worked out.
I have finally perfected a slow motion switch machine after having the timer motors for over 40 years. In a January 1977 Model Railroader article Gordon Odegard wrote about using a timer motor to build a turnout points machine. Later that year I purchased about thirty, 6 rpm, 24 Volt AC timer motors for a dollar each. Only this year have I had a use for them. Using 16 AC volts the motors revolve at a nice three rpm and now switch both the frog points and route indicating LEDs. I can also activate the motor from multiple locations. More pictures to come as I get these installed.
After several discussions on Model Railroader, I have settled on a method of soldering a jumper wire from the closure rails to the switch points to assure good contact. Now I just need to do a better job of not melting the ties around the solder points.
I recently detected that the points on some of my Atlas custom line #6 turnouts are not getting power & the DCC signal to the points. When using an un-powered frog, and the points are dead, engines of just the right wheel base will die on the turnout. Since I run only four axial trucks this becomes more of a problem. In the picture you can see that the points are powered through a small eyelet and metal pad that is suppose to touch the closure rails, or through the end of the points touching the stock rail on the through side. Neither of these is reliable. I’m hoping to find a better, more reliable power-signal transfer method.