Non-Derail Options for Atlas Switch

Without the atlas control board I don’t think you have any choices. As you know the normal way of wiring non derail will burn up the switch machine. Put the control board on the want to buy list. You may get lucky.

Rider:

I  think you can purchase a Z1000 switch motor for less than an Atlas 6924. Replace the Atlas motor with the Z1000 and non derail becomes a matter of an isolated rail and one extra wire.

If you buy the motor just make sure you buy the correct spring that connects the motor to the turnout swing bar.

Joe

DZ 1000 instruction sheet.   Bottom of page 2 shows auto-non-derail wiring.   Diodes are optional.   The DZ 1000 switch machines have a limit switch that disconnects power upon a complete throw.

Note the dark green limit switch, bottom center of picture.

Rider Sandman posted:

 I've read that the switches are inherently somewhat non-derailing, but I was trying to actively move the switch for both reliability and to reverse the direction of the train as it passes back through the switch.

The Atlas "non-derailing" with out the board is more spring loaded. The wheels of the train push the part of the switch that directs the way the train goes(whatever that is called). It seems like it only works in one direction since if you have that go through and push that section out of the way. If you reverse the train it will travel the way the switch is thrown. 

As for the #6924 Non-Derail boards EBay or Wanted to buy would be the best way to get them currently, since I am not sure they are currently made. I need to get a few more for my layout, or just forego them and get all the Z-1000 or Z-2500 switch machines for all my switches on my layout.

Rod, Joe, and Mike - thanks for the great suggestions.  I had emailed Atlas and received a very prompt response - the 6924 boards are gone and not likely to be produced again.  So, it looks like the Z1000 is a fairly good (and easy) substitute.  Thanks again, fellas.

TCochran, based on word from Atlas, I believe you are correct - the secondary market is the only option for your remaining 6924 boards.  From what I could find, they can be salty given sellers have the benefit of knowing supply is now capped.  The Zmachines seem like the way for me to go given I'm starting from scratch.

Rider Sandman posted:

Rod, Joe, and Mike - thanks for the great suggestions.  I had emailed Atlas and received a very prompt response - the 6924 boards are gone and not likely to be produced again.  So, it looks like the Z1000 is a fairly good (and easy) substitute.  Thanks again, fellas.

That’s a shame. Ok GRJ, it’s time to do your thing with a new board offering.

Per past forum posts, the DZ-1000 has been used successfully on Atlas switches.  Has anyone used a DZ-2500 on them?  If so, how do the perform?