Used to run an HO layout with over 40 Tortoises and those things fired reliably for years.
On my new O layout I put in 4 of the Cobalts and 2 so far have locked up their gears. The 2 Cobalts have now been replaced with Tortoises.
Anyone else with similar issues? Running 14 volts through them.
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What feedback did the folks at Cobalt provide when you explained the problem?
The instructions state voltage 6v-12v.
The last page of the manual states a lifetime warranty...but you apparently exceeded the recommended voltage. 
Chuck,
Since you still have Cobalt machines, it would be worth contacting them to explain your situation so you avoid future problems.
Never heard of these, but first link I pulled up:
(please do not exceed 12v DC… Cobalt has huge torque because of its very low gearing and excess voltage will cause early failure)
never heard of the cobalt machine before (in my defense, i really haven't had to shop for a switch machine for years) so checked a few eBay ads. i don't want to argue with instructions, but the listings i read all quoted...
Drive motor connections (reversible 6~15vDC @ max 30mA)
That's what I had went by but I didn't confirm it with the actual instructions.
There was a loud clicking from each Cobalt and when I took one apart one of the gears had "jumped the tracks".
I tried to fix the gear but as usual ended up with about 10 little gears all over my workbench.
Went back to Tortoise but this is not a testimony on Cobalt. It appears I over-juiced them.
Chuck
I'm glad Matt brought up the voltage issue as they could be wonderful machines operated at the correct voltage. I've used neither type, but hate to see any mfg take an undeserved hit.
Butch
Just looked at my instructions and they do say 15 volts is OK. I was using 14 but then I just read the newer Cobalts have the power backed off to 12V because of the ticking problem I encountered.
I'm seeing on other forums that even at 12V they will tend to tick.
They seem like great machines... I simply am going to stick with the tried and true tortoise. My mistake if I appeared to be knocking any maker of switch machines. I was disappointed to lose $50 and maybe $100 if the other 2 Cobalts fail because I have old instructions.
It would make sense to contact the manufacturer and ask for help or a clarification regarding their product. Posting vague scenarios on a public forum serves no purpose. 
It would make sense to contact the manufacturer and ask for help or a clarification regarding their product. Posting vague scenarios on a public forum serves no purpose.
I know I'm dense but what is vague about 2 of my 4 $25 Cobalts failing in service using the instructions supplied with them?
If I wanted to be real bad I'd say that with my purchase of the next 45 switch machines I'm ditching the Cobalts and going with Tortoise. No question.
But I won't do that... 
I use this forum when I have troubles and need expert opinion. I don't use it to bash manufacturers. I spent $100 on 4 Cobalts and followed their instructions. When 2 failed I got on here and asked if others had similar problems.
I am not required to contact a manufacturer if I have a problem with one of their products.
If you want to lecture may I suggest a PM next time?
Thanks.
Chuck
Agreed.
I purchased a small, precision item that required assembly. It would not work as well as I thought it should. I contacted the manufacturer and rather than email back and forth, they requested that I return it for inspection. I received the item completely assembled and in perfect working order. They refused my offer to pay for their time and postage. Maybe there was a manufacturing flaw or maybe it was my fat-fingered assembly process, but in any event they now have a customer for life.
Most of the model railroad manufacturers are small outfits serving the hobby and trying to earn a living. Regardless of fault, contacting them regarding a potential problem helps them and other modelers.
I agree with your point and I could have worded the whole issue more fairly. In fact I just changed the title of the thread.
It was my fault for juicing the heck out of them.
Chuck
Oops, you are fast!
I was attempting to edit my post.
Thanks.
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