Point Motor Servo VS Solenoid

[bigg2507]

Hi,

I am looking at the best option for point motors i have looked a various solenoid based switches such as the Seep PM1 and have seen various solutions with using RC servos.

I have found that the solenoid base motors need to be mounted beneath the point and as I am using N gauge they will no fit in some areas.

What are your suggestions ideas?

Cheers,

[trainsdownunder]

I have a mix on my layout. I started with Peco point motors. Very good work fine once you've got the knack of fitting them. However I did find things got a bit tight for space in some areas and also on elevated sections and so initially used a rod and tube arrangement for these and then fitted servos at a convenient end point.

Of the two I found the servos the better - much more control in operation and not a lot dearer to install. However on the new layout I have to confess to using Kato Unitrack so the problem has not arisen.

If you do a search for "servos" I am sure there have been some other comments/advice on this topic.

[bigg2507]

Hi trainsdownunder,

Thank you I think i am going to go for servos with rod in a tube seems to be the advice i am getting from a lot of people.

Cheers,

[trainsdownunder]

IMHO definitely what I would do if starting again.

The rod and tube is not an expensive option (see http://www.lytchettmanor.co.uk/mercontrol.html and has the advantage of being able to upgrade with servos etc. I used the MERG CAN ACC4 to drive mine under DCC.

[polo2k]

Servos all the way for me!!!

Currently using the MERG Kits, however, ther could possibly be a new servo driver about some time soon!

[red_death]

A friend uses Servos with cranks and omega loops if necessary to get to awkward places.  You can get very cheap mini servos from Ebay.

[polo2k]

buying from abroad they can get ridiculously cheap!!