What signals can be operated by Tortoise Switch Machines?

Very easy to drive lights such as a dwarf signal to show switch position. There are 2 sets of switch contacts built into the switch machine. I wouldn’t run track power through them as they aren’t capable of the amps required to run a train if your using them to power a siding on and off. They can easily drive a relay for this if needed.

Full instructions can be found on line. Search Circuitron.

I soldered wires directly to the printed board. They do sell a connector that mates to it with screw contacts. Easy enough to solder up at the workbench. 20 or 22 gauge wire works if you go for the direct soldering.

George!  Have you finally seen the light about using Tortoises instead of DZ-whatevers?  Like Dave says, Tortoises have 2 internal single-pole, double-throw contacts that can be used to drive signals.  It is also easy to attach micro-switches that can handle more current, or drive a relay off the Tortoise contacts.  Tortoises (especially used ones) are also much less expensive than DZ-whatevers.

@Bob posted:

George!  Have you finally seen the light about using Tortoises instead of DZ-whatevers?  Like Dave says, Tortoises have 2 internal single-pole, double-throw contacts that can be used to drive signals.  It is also easy to attach micro-switches that can handle more current, or drive a relay off the Tortoise contacts.  Tortoises (especially used ones) are also much less expensive than DZ-whatevers.

Maybe.    I am certainly thinking about it.

George

You can wire one or more pairs of LEDs in series with the Tortoise motor to have directional signals and/or panel lights.  The wiring is very simple and you don't even need to use the relay contacts in the Tortoise.

#3 is the basic Tortoise wiring and #4 shows where to wire the LEDs between the Tortoise and the SPDT Panel Switch. Note that you can have one pair of LEDs on the panel and one pair as ground signals by the turnout.

The small stall current in the motor keeps the LEDs lit.  

Here is the full Tortoise instructions.

Bob

Tortoise machines (21) and switch position Dwarf Signals (19) are connected to one of the relays in the tortoise machines.   All are powered by one of the variable outputs on the ZW passing through single bridge rectifier.  Each handle of the ZW is dedicated to a specific set of accessories.  This allowed me to dial in and find the sweet spot for the switches and signals.  Once you have the tortoise machines installed adding the Dwarf Signals was a snap... just drill a hole next to the switch, run the signal wires through it hook them up to the relay.  Buy the Accu-Lites 10001 connectors it makes the install and future changes and modifications a breeze~~~~~~~~~  I can't say enough good things about the tortoise machines... they are absolutely BULLET PROOF!

There is a drill jig, TDG806 Tortoise(r) Drilling Jig, that can make physical installation a bit easier... There is also a Back Shop Video that shows Jim (late Jim Barrett) installing one!!!