Power switch machine

[signalguy]

Here are two views of a Union Switch & Signal Co M-23 Dual Control Switch Machine . The first photo was taken across the track from the machine and shows the connections from the machine to the switch points. From the left to right the first is the throw bar which provides the power to move the points. The next rod to the right is connected to the lock rods in the machine and locks the points in the normal or reverse position. There is a longitudinal rod in the machine that fits into slots in the lock rods. The last rod is connected to the detector rods and controls the contacts which indicate the points are in the proper position and the switch machine is locked. The detector circuit must be closed before a signal can be cleared.
http://www.railimages.com/albums/gilmanabar/aci.sized.jpg
The second photo shows the machine from the motor end. The middle compartment houses the gears and the far end compartment houses the contacts. On the right hand side is the dual control feature which has a short and long handle. The short handle disengages the motor and opens the detector circuit to indicate the machine is in hand throw and also puts the signals to stop. The long handle is used to throw the points from normal to reverse.
http://www.railimages.com/albums/gilmanabar/acj.sized.jpg

[Telegrapher]

Great shots Gil

[William Cowie]

Where's the hatch to climb down and see the full-size Tortoise machine below the switch? :D graemlins/222.gif :D

The Walong siding on the Tehachapi loop also has these (or similar ones)...

[Peirce]

This is the first time I have had a close look at these switch machines. Thanks for posting. These can be a nice added detail to any scale model RR.

[signalguy]

This is a 24 volt DC machine and it can also be obtained as a 110 volt DC machine. The 24 volt machine is considered a slow operating machine while the 110 volt is a high speed machine. Either model has the capacity to operate 20 foot switch points. If the points are longer they use a pipe connected mid point helper up to 39 foot points. If longer points are used a second switch machine would be connected at mid point. The pipe connected mid point helper uses the power of the switch machine through cranks and pipe line to move the middle of the point. They also use rollers under the point which lifts the point off the plates to decrease drag and reduce the force required to move the points. A graphite grease is used to lubricate the plates for easier operation.

[Colonel]

Great to see a common machine use acroos many railroads. We have the M2 switch machine that is very similar although we mainly use 120 volt AC motors I do have a M2D machine that is 24 volts DC.

We are now installing M84 (Westinghouse) machines which are claw locks. The machines do not have an internal locking mechansim but a claw that locks the switch to the stockrail. I will endevour to post some pics in the next few days.

[signalguy]

Paul, this does not show the clamp but is this they type of lock you were talking about. I believe I was told this was a point clamp.
http://www.railimages.com/albums/gilmanabar/ack.jpg