mike g. posted:I love the way they work, it just sucks that I an limited where I can use them do to the support structure under the table.
Mike, regarding your desired use of Tortoise switch machines: Since you really like their operation, there are ways to work around support structures. On an early in my life HO layout, I had clearance and structural issues under a few switch locations. I used RC airplane control rods, see picture. The yellow rod slides inside the red tube and transfers motion to where ever you need it. If you rout a small groove in your table top perpendicular to the switch and leading to the throw bar, you can bury the tube assembly and run it out far enough to mount your switch machine away from any obstruction. The spring wire on the Tortoise throw will activate the yellow slide rod. The other end of the yellow slide will have a vertical metal pin that will activate the switch throw bar. In short, the Tortoise machine need not be directly under the track switch. I can give you more details if you are interested in this method. Also, I am sure that your local hobby dealer and/or area modelers, would be able to give further input and possibly, other options. The only area that I did not use Tortoise is on two switches that needed to be non-derailing. Those switches are activated by DZ1000 switch machines which produces the necessary quick snap throw. Give it some thought. Cheers, Dave
