Cobalt Point Motors on test at Chadwick Model Railway | 161.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

The track-work in the fiddle yard is almost complete. Many thanks for bearing with me as this work has progressed in the background. It doesn’t make interesting content. So next time it’s track testing with various train configurations and couplings. Fingers crossed for reliability.

[@VespaT5]

Good news, I'm looking forward to seeing the layout again.

[@markstansfield4359]

Great to hear your going back to showing your layout after being nearly 6 months with out showing much. Look forward to it

[@philiplimerick2794]

I purchased 12 Cobalt point motors in 2013. I,m not sure when they first came out but these were early analogue ones. I powered them with a Kent panel controls 12v supply. They started to give issues very quickly. All except one. they would go to there limit of travel and continue to click. As they failed I replaced them with Tortoise motors. I still kept the Cobalt motors, i didn't realise they had a life warranty. I was at the DCC Concepts stand at Warley 2022, I mentioned it and was told to email in. Which I did. I was asked to send them in to DCC Concepts. Which I did. 2 Days later I received 12 new motors!! That is customer service on a top level scale. I have friends who use these motors and was told they are so good and reliable. I am using these on my new layout. My sincerest thanks to Chris at DCC Concepts.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Yes, as you’ve discovered, those early point Motors, we’re at a poor build standard. It’s great that DCC Concepts. word. Regards, Charlie

[@kevingreen6924]

thanks Charlie. however, i'm looking forward to getting back to the layout. and it's always a pleasure when you turn up on Friday evening.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

You should enjoy the next video then Kevin it’s almost made especially for you! Regards Charlie

[@iansanderson2191]

Really helpful video, both for the spring removal and the review of the Cobalt motors. Thanks.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Ian, I’m so pleased that you found the video useful. Regards Charlie

[@CAPNMAC82]

Those are pretty slick bits of kit. Your description is clear and concise, too. A great video all around.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Captain Mac 82, regards Charlie

[@bobby01g]

Thanks Charlie you’re doing a fine job, looking forward to some layout video,s soon.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s the subject next time Bobby, Regards Charlie

[@TATICMOOR]

Well Charlie, you have done it again with a lot of content in you film about Cobalt motors. Finishing off with a lot (x50) good points to give this film a thumbs up, LOL.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks John, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards Charlie

[@peterjhillier7659]

Excellent Video and Critique Charlie, those cobalt Units look just the Ticket. Thanks for sharing.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Any time Peter, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it mate. Regards Charlie

[@davidspottiswoode3831]

Hi Charlie, thanks for this. I use Cobalts and I’ve learned a couple of new things I wish I’d known about some time ago! One little trick I found when inserting the armature wire is to push the sliding holder down to the bottom and it will hold it in place while you drive the screw in. 😊

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Great advice David, many thanks.

[@onnomulder9775]

Very helpful update Charlie!! Thanks for sharing! Cheers Onno.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

You’re most welcome Onno. Regards Charlie

[@ngaugefouroaksstreetstatio6932]

Charlie, I have used 36 of these for 10 years, when Richard Johnson operated out of Perth he gave me another tip which i may use in the future. He said to avoid a train going through a point that was set against it he mentioned you could cut one side of the rail prior to the point and use one of the switches on the point motor to power that mini section. Then a train cannot travel through if the point is set against it.

[@jonathanlake6053]

Sounds like a great idea, thanks.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That sounds like a decent plan mate. Regards Charlie

[@alecwillis1073]

Useful tip

[@tomlawton7087]

Is this not the same as electro frog, but extended so the braking zone can stop the train before it fouls the points?

[@ChrisB-wl7ci]

@@tomlawton7087 Yes, just using one of the built in switches to power a small independent section of one side of the track prior to the point. Similar to using it for a frog but with a longer loco the point is already fouled.

[@Southcoaster377]

Hi Charlie, Excellent video again - many thanks. I’m so glad you liked the iPDigital, having decided to use them on my layout.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Please remember David this was not a comparison between cobalts and tortoise. Just a review of cobalts. Regards Charlie

[@Kevin-mm5ix4dc7y]

Thanks Charlie, yet another excellent video and for taking the time to review and explaining why you went down the Tortoise route 👍

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Kevin, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting mate. Regards Charlie

[@quarryjunction-1969]

On my old layout I used the PM1 and PM2 solenoid point motors and agree they make a lot of noise. For new layout have ordered the first 6. Thanks Charlie for review sounds a much better plan

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A good move, Jason, I’m sure you’ll be very satisfied. Regards, Charlie.

[@srtgrayfrance]

Hi Charlie, another great video thanks. I don't model myself, but it's fun to watch others enjoy their hobby.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you find the channel entertaining mate. Regards Charlie

[@philsrailway5910]

Hi Charlie. Anouther informative vid. Thanks for more info on the hobbie. There's so much that goes in 1 ear and out the other these days not a lot to stop it leaking.... Take care mate.... Phil

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Phil, that’s very kind of you to say so. Regards Charlie

[@RonDennisMum]

Thank you Charlie. Love all your videos - have just ordered my first Cobalt iP point motor as a result of watching this one. Keep up the great work!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Ron, I do hope that it integrates well into your layout. Regards Charlie

[@FBMRR]

thanks for the Demo... i do have a few of these Cobalt IP on my layout but never knew the difference.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m pleased you found it interesting mate. Regards Charlie

[@TheDaf95xf]

Evening Charlie. Another great review video we’ll presented 👍🏻 Hope you have a fantastic weekend and looking forward to seeing your next update on Chadwick 🤩 Cheers Stevie.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Stevie, enjoys yours too mate.

[@fircombehallrailwayoogauge1430]

Another excellent demonstration. Comparing the cost of these against servo motors, I am satisfied with my choice of the latter. There are so many options available and what you already know is often best. 50 points Charlie! Wow! They are always a pain to fit and get working correctly - you have my sympathy sir!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m glad that you enjoyed the video even though your preference lies elsewhere. Regards Charlie

[@kitchenhamfarm]

great tutorial charlie probably get my granddaughter three years old to buy the point motors to get a proper life time warranty ...............tony

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Now there’s a thought Tony. Regards Charlie

[@reconphil]

Another superb review! Your presentations are impeccible!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

You’re too kind Phil. Regards Charlie

[@jameshatfield1194]

Thanks Charlie I will have to watch that a few times for the wiring but a great video to learn from

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks James, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting mate. Regards Charlie

[@marklittlejohn1457]

Excellent point motors Charlie thankyou for the tips and video

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

You’re most welcome Mark

[@roystudds1944]

Really interesting video Charlie and some fascinating comments about the experience people have had with these products. Thanks for sharing. Roy.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Roy, I’m so pleased that you and many others found the video useful. Regards Charlie

[@gregoryhale2202]

Hi Charlie, an extremely interesting video full of easy to understand information, thanks for posting. Cheers Greg

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Greg. Stay safe mate, regards Charlie

[@graham33freeland59]

Very interesting video Charlie. First time I've saw a demonstration on those particular motors. Looks very flexible...I can see why more people are choosing that system...

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Yes they are an interesting option Graham. Regards Charlie

[@davepoul8483]

great stuff as per Charlie.... just putting apoxy on my dcc plugs and decoders... stops wires pulling off....

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s a little drastic Dave, regards Charlie

[@davepoul8483]

@@ChadwickModelRailway that could be true.. thing is i am converting about 18-20 locos to dcc from small stuff like J72 Bachmann's, to bigger Scotts, with Mainline and Hornby's as well. You have to cut away some of the chassis and isolate the motor, but you know this, and of course there are 2 or 3 types of split chassis... Hornby's are not so bad.. Any hoo it means lots of on and off and plug and unplugging. Also helps keep the wring tidy so bit of heat shrink up to the socket board then a drop of Alraldite to hold wires and helps with insulation as well and its kinda enjoyable.. i think it would be not as much fun to buy, unpack, put on track, program then watch the loco go round and round :) Am a bike mechanic by trade and fixing stuff is great..

[@StBlazeyModelWorld]

I found that to be very helpful Charlie. I shall be recommending one of those options to my client for their exhibition layout. Many thanks and, as always, take care and stay safe mate

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Roger I’m so pleased that you found it interesting mate, stay safe buddy. Regards Charlie

[@jeremyfullthorpe8275]

Thanks Charlie 👍 Another informative demonstration- keep up the excellent work with your “how to” videos. This has made me rethink what I am going to use for DCC point control.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Just getting away from solenoids is so much better.regards Charlie

[@jeremyfullthorpe8275]

@@ChadwickModelRailway Hi Charlie I have been following your channel for some time now and I wanted to ask which DC power supply you use for your DCC accessories. I know.that you are a digitrax user, however, I have decided to purchase the ESU command centre for DCC train running. In terms of accessory decoders, I believe that a you have stated on a previous video that your accessory decoders are fed of a separate Bus Wire OR Accessory Bus Wire? Am I correct in my understanding that you use a DC transformer (power supply) to achieve this? Am I correct in my understanding that you have an ‘old gauge master’ DC transformer (Power Supply) which you use to achieve this? Do you have any advice or tips regarding power supplies in this application, I believe that both Gaugemaster and DCC Concepts do manufacture Power Supply just wanted your thoughts on the matter? Best Wishes Jeremy

[@willp358]

Brill as ever! Really interesting insight into the product. Thanks Charlie..

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Will, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting.

[@philbartlett7898]

As always Charlie, your easy presentation style is very useful to us. I have a few tortoises but cobalt is definitely a step up

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m not too sure Phil, it was a review not a comparison. Regards Charlie

[@tennesseeron1297]

Charlie: I continue to use INOX on my 3 rail O scale layout using Atlas 21st Century track with the blackened middle rail. Wonderful with a track cleaner. Great MTH DCS electrical conduction. Thanks!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s great news Ron, I’m so pleased that you found it a useful product. Regards, Charlie

[@patrickhunt8644]

Hi Charlie. Another great video. My planned layout has nearly 100 point and half that number again of servo motors required for semaphore signals; no semaphores in the fiddle yard. I have gone down the ESU Switch Pilot Servo 3 route for a couple of reasons. You can add a separate AC or DC supply for the ESU unit and use the DCC input purely for control, thus saving a lot of DCC power, as well as being able to switch signal bounce mode on if controlling semaphores. In addition you can switch using DCC or switch just like the Cobalt. I did start to use ESU Switch Pilot Extension which have two relays per channel but have moved back to microswitches on the point motor module. I am using the Make It Miniature Linear Turnout Actuators which do not use a 'spring' wire but instead move a block linearly left and right directly under the point with a very short stub wire. However, another key point is cost. The Cobalt Digital comes in at £22-26 depending on the quantity purchased. The ESU and Make It Miniature combination is £16. So, a Cobalt Digital solution for my planned layout is £3,750 whilst the ESU/MIM solution costs around £2,400. Useful tip in the thread about isolating power using the spare switched output. Dead section would need to be at least the length of your longest locomotive. Look forward to seeing the track testing and how you have set up block power and block detection.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

It sounds like you’ve made a sound decision Patrick, finances must always be brought into the equation. Hope you enjoy the next one, regards Charlie

[@donsharpe5786]

Thanks again Charlie. I am pleased that Cobalt remember that there are still us dinosaurs who l use DC. I like the fact that you can link in your signal with the point.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Yes an interesting advantage. Regards Charlie

[@glenwood4228]

Hi Charlie, as usual a great video. When I'm ready to fit my pointsI will consider these options. I look foward to the other motor videos that has been mentioned so I am well informed. I look forward to videos in two weeks time. All the best.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Glen, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. Regards Charlie

[@1BCamden]

Great review, honest and to the point

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks mate, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards Charlie

[@jamesstuartjones2652]

Reply good l have IP points motors on my layout but didn’t know about controlling them with a switch l am going to try to install switches cheers Charlie

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Good luck James, regards Charlie

[@1701_FyldeFlyer]

Brilliant vid, Charlie. I contacted DCC Concepts about using IP analog or IP digital and unsurprisingly, they recommended the more expensive digital. DCC Concepts items can be obtained much cheaper from other 'reputable' model railway shops! What I liked about this vid is you made clear how to wire IP analog frog switching on a DCC layout but when accessories and point motors are dc powered. I know some people have had shorts with the frog switching because the accompanying leaflet didnt make this clear. Im torn betwen the DCC Concepts system and the Mega Points Controllers system. Basically, with DCC Concepts, the IP analog and digital handle switching, frog switching and fixing in place, all in one. With MPC, you have to buy servos, relays and board for frog switching and the fixing kit. All in all, this means there isnt much price difference between an IP analog \ digital and an MPC servo, board, relay and fixing kit etc. Essentially, DCC Concepts is built for DCC operation whereas MPC is built for DC but can have a DCC signal.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Interesting thoughts 1701, I remain a tortoise guy.

[@nickvellis9823]

Excellent review, Charlie. Thank you!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Nick, you’re most welcome. Regards Charlie

[@dave3301]

Thanks for Sharing, great show. Informative

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Dave, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it mate. Regards Charlie

[@FormallyknownasE100]

Really great video. I'm between these and the mega points servo control currently with the merge mounts. I think I'll probably end up with both. I do like the ability with these to put them remote from the alpha based mimic panel. But the servos are cheaper and mega points do a nice realistic semaphore bounce. I can also use them for level crossing gates as well.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Good luck with which ever one you choose E100. Regards Charlie

[@jeffjones6107]

Enjoyed the video Charlie keep them coming 👍

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Jeff, I’m so pleased that you did.

[@derekloudon8731]

Another informative video Charlie, thanks. When I started planning my layout (I am on year 7 of a 3 year plan 😁) I did a serious survey of all types of pont motors. Being retired my funds are limited so Cobalt and Tortoise motors, although highly desirable, were not an option. Being a retired electronics engineer I am very lucky to be able to design and build various electronic gizmos for my layout. I settled for servo motors fitted to Dingo mounts driven by the ubiquitous Arduino. It works well but the downside was I spent an awful lot of time in the design phase (yes, I am a compulsive perfectionist twiddler 🤔)! I can now concentrate on the layout build --- mmm, perhaps I could just tweak that .......aaaaaaarg!!!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A great comment Derek, and very much appreciated. I feel your pain, regards Charlie

[@kevinlittlewood-tribe5443]

Hi Charlie, very interesting but am looking forward to seeing update on your layout. Thanks Kevin 👍

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Next video is a build update if it all goes well Ian

[@TheSonofruss]

Hope everything is going well with your layout excited to see the second Helix finished so we can have continuous running

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Next weeks video Will show some great progress on that front. Regards Charlie

[@brenthopley874]

Hi Charlie, reading through the entire thread here along with all the comments has been both interesting and informative. I've been helping a friend instal Colbalt point point motors between the main yard and the storage yard directly under it there being only 9in (225mm) between the two. So, installing them has been "challenging" for want of less appropriate words! While this would be the case for any point motor in this space, it was not so much in regards to final positioning as it was trying to connect the wires post installation to the point motors. The double sided pad (and having a handful of "spares" is very useful) made positioning relatively easy and using a template to pre-drill the screw holes worked a great for all but one of 32 screws - my bad here. What I did after point No3 was pre-connect the wires, position and fix the point motor then fed the point wiring loom (7 core lead) down to the master terminal board which came with its own challenges but that's another story. Unfortunately I had to change two wires over on one of the installed points and it took longer to do this than completely install three to four point motors. While I'm a Tortoise man myself, the Cobalt point motor does have the advantage of being smaller so will fit more conveniently into those tight locations - something to consider as I look at starting my first "home" based layout. Thanks as usual for the informative clip, but I too look forward to seeing some more work on the layout - is there really another helix? Best Regards from the other hemisphere...

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks for the very informative comment Brent. Yes there will be a second helix but next time I will reveal just how much has been going on, behind the scenes. Regards Charlie

[@neilcrawford8303]

I've used Cobalt IP analogue motors which I briefly powered using an H&M controller. They didn't like it with some point motors constantly oscillating. I contacted DCC Concepts and they were very helpful. They advised me that the power from a controller can have serious power fluctuations which can upset the point motor. The power fluctuations aren't visible on a volt meter, but show up on an oscilloscope. I took their advice and used a stabilised power supply (ex modem plug type power supply) and it solved the problem.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Great tip Neil, many thanks. Regards Charlie

[@wally1022]

Great video Charlie. With the info you gave on this video I will be looking into the IP analogue against the tortoise brand and see which one is readily available here down under. Cheers

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Please remember that it was a review not a comparison across brands.

[@bulleidboy1]

Hi Charlie - great video as usual. I have been using Cobalt iP Digitals now for about seven years and they work well. Mine are wired for both DCC and toggle switch operation (I never use the DCC switching method - it takes to long). Some Cobalts are wired to Dapol signals, and again work well. I would certainly recommend them.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s great news Barry, thanks for your input, regards Charlie

[@bertbristow7172]

I bought a 6-pack of the older Classics about five years ago due to ongoing frustration with Fulgurex point motors. I fitted these about 20 years ago and must have had everyone of them apart multiple times. Most of them had the unbelievably unreliable 1950's switches replaced with mechanical electronics hobby shop items that have never failed. Now the worms are splitting so I began a rolling program of replacement. This vid would have been even more useful 5 years ago Charlie! What a pleasure it has been to install the Classics. My only issue has been the plunger cable clips can be a bit hit and miss but once in you are done. Because my panel was set up for Fulgurex, the switches are momentary DPDT so the current draw issue is not present. What it does mean is that panel indicator lights had to be rethought. I could rewire but my system works so will leave it. I have found the sticky pads are only up to the job for a couple of minutes so those screws need to go in rapidly whilst you lie awkwardly on your back, the worst part of the job. The adjustable fulcrum is an excellent idea.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you have achieved the satisfactory situation Burt. Point Motors have always been such a pain. Regards, Charlie.

[@bertbristow7172]

@@ChadwickModelRailway Thanks Charlie. The Fulgurex units have been the ultimate test of patience and root of much cursing. The revered long time guru of custom track building Norman Solomon endorsed them years ago and I went in boots and all. Clearly he never operated a layout that he installed them on. BTW, it still makes me smile that the first thing the well informed modeller has to do with Peco electrofrogs is rip the spring out and butcher the underside! Imagine buying a new car and being advised that changing the brake pads on arrival at home is the go? I’m a 7mm guy so that makes it necessary to remove the non prototipical “coffin” that hides the spring and replace the ugly overscale waxy plastic tie bar too. Not so much Streamline as clothes line?

[@markallen1951]

Great review Charlie!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Mark, regards Charlie

[@tomlawton7087]

Charlie, is this a case for forward planning? By stripping down a (new) Cobalt, you can see where the gearbox is, and determine how easy it is to put a splash of lubricant into the gearbox. If this shows that it can be done without compromising the motor or EOT switches, then you could put a small hole to fit the specialist WD40 straw, and could add lubricant without removing and stripping down the assembly. To avoid long-term flooding, you could also have an overflow hole, to limit the excess lube. And use the correct specialist WD40; worth having a can and labelling it’s uses on the layout.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Taking advice from DCC Concepts., this lubrication is only advisory. You still have the lifetime warranty. It’s certainly something that I wouldn’t be doing. it’s so difficult to remove them in situ and they’re trying to re-thread the armature wire. Regards Charlie

[@tomlawton7087]

@@ChadwickModelRailway Charlie, if the holes are in the right place (by design), then you can inject the lube without removing the Cobalt.

[@kimstapleton3365]

Hi Charlie, As usual a very informative and entertaining video, please keep up the good work. One thing that you did not mention about the iPDigital motors is that they contain their own decoder, which means that you do not require the additional cost of a stationary accessory decoder like the Digitrax DS74 or DCC Concepts AD8FX. Just a thought mate. Cheers, Kim

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A fair point Kim but I certainly mentioned the programming switch and the need to give it a digital address. Regards Charlie

[@MickDownUnder]

I have been using Cobalt point motors over the last 5 years and have found that the grease dries up over time and stalls the motor! Not sure if it's a current issue still but as you pointed out at 24:16 it's still in the manual.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

It’s not something that comes up regularly Mick, but perhaps a five yearly cycle might be worthwhile. Regards, Charlie

[@pgcroc8484]

Hi Charlie. Regarding the removal of the spring from Peco Electrofrog points. I have been doing this for a while, (and using Tortoise point motors) I had cause to send some points back to Peco for repair and whilst chatting to a guy at Peco he said that the spring should not be removed! There are many videos out there showing the springs being removed. Makes me think about leaving the springs in on the next couple of points and see what happens. Keep up the good work. Cheers. Pete

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s very interesting Pete. Could you email me with your findings? Regards Charlie

[@pgcroc8484]

@@ChadwickModelRailway Will do Charlie. May be a few weeks. Abroad at the moment. Pete

[@mels1811]

Wonderful video

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Mels, regards Charlie

[@briansimpson4293]

Hi Charlie, nice video, in my opinion these are the best slow action point motors on the market I have 15 IP digital point motors on my layout and all work great. I can change them thro my Dcc controller via the set address or manually using SPDT Switches they are very easy to install and set up, and no soldering required , also DCC after sales service is very good and helpful + life time gaurentee it's a no brainer.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Well there’s a recommendation, many thanks, regards Charlie

[@williamchurchill3174]

Thanks Charlie, great video I do agree with you that the IP analogue is the best one and it will be the perfect addition to my door sized OO tail chaser railway, as they are low profile and easy to add wires to and are very affordable and adaptive.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m so pleased that you found it interesting will. Regards Charlie

[@kevinmartin1065]

Great video and very useful information as ever. I have just got some of the IP version to use and all appears to be a fairly simple installation! I missed the bit about the 5 yearly inspections, that now has me worried about the lifetime guarantee I’d you don’t keep a service record🤔

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I will seek clarification on this on Kevin.

[@richardbrighton7737]

Just jumping in here to reassure that the warranty is not conditional on the maintenance recommendation :)

[@roundel52]

Great video as usual, Charlie. Pity you didn't try to install one using the sticky pad. I thought the same as you initially, but these pads are VERY sticky. I recently removed a few from an older layout (they'd been in place fot about 6 years) and whilst the screws came out easily, the pad was quite hard to remove. My new layout has replacement pads and I'm not bothering with the screws at all. Totally agree with your maintenance thoughts though. It's nice that we can maintain them, but once fitted, they're staying put. Feeding the wire through the hole after it has been cut to length in itself can be very difficult in itself.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Great comment John, many thanks.

[@steveedwards9957]

A solution for the activator wire would be to fit a new length and cut to size again.

[@mels4796]

wonderful video

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Mels (again)

[@toots.007]

Great Video Charlie, I think you can also switch the DCC point motor using just one switch I started using this at first but I have now switched completely to computer control (Itrain). I have around 20 on my loft layout they work well. Bryn

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Bryn, I’m pleased that you enjoyed it. Happy modelling. Regards Charlie

[@Sorarse]

Very interesting to see the comparison and features of the various types. I haven't converted to DCC yet, but after research decided to go for servo style point motors. The advantages of these for me is that you can adjust the speed of operation, and you can adjust the travel end points independently. I find that this makes installation a lot easier, as it doesn't matter if you happen to mount one slightly off the centre of travel.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

A fair point mate, and also so much cheaper. Regards Charlie

[@guywilliamson4074]

When connecting the red and black cables into the motor how do you know you have got black to back and red to front?

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

It doesn’t matter with locomotive wiring guy. Either should work. Show.

[@davidcurrie8429]

Hi Charlie, Another interesting and informative video. This type of point motor certainly adds realistic operation but at the starting price of £17.95 it can add a massive cost to a larger layout. Regards, David.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I think servos are probably the best option for those operating on a budget, with the time available to fettle them properly. Regards Charlie

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I think servos are probably the best option for those operating on a budget, with the time available to fettle them properly. Regards Charlie

[@peterjackson-cheadleheath1182]

Hi Charlie A great little video, its interesting to read of the failure of the DCC(?) version from Bryan and others, although I think when I get round to buying point motors I think I still would choose these, just because of the range of options to work both signals and switiches off the same 'contact point' as it were. Thanks again.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

They are certainly worth considering Peter.

[@Mitche01]

Good informative video Charlie, one care point I would advise, check if the life time guarantee is only up held if you follow the 5 year oil service requirement! Some companies are a stickler for that sort of caveat. Best regards, Simon.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I will question DCC Concepts and report back in the summer update. Regards Charlie

[@richardbrighton7737]

Just jumping in here to reassure that the warranty is not conditional on the maintenance recommendation :)

[@Mitche01]

@@richardbrighton7737 Hi Richard, thank you for the clarification. That is re-assuring and you should be commended for a true customer focused service/set of rules. Please do not think I had assumed you were doing that, just in my experience (I am an automotive senior engineer) small print can trip people up.

[@martyn6792]

I was watching your latest video and this caught my eye, very interesting technology and the fact you can combine DCC and analogue ie have control panel control, would assume you could also use DCC to set routes on a complex layout and interlock signals etc Speaking of signals, a video on signalling would be interesting as well from a layout perspective, with different types, call on, ground etc as well as normal aspect signals

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I know that Hattons have produced some useful videos on signals. Regards Charlie

[@vernongardner1958]

Hi Charlie, I'm building my first layout and elected to go Slow action point motors rather than solenoid and Cobalt Omega Classic. I like the fact they come pre-centred for fitting. However, I do find them quite noisy, well noisier than I was expecting although I do not have any reference of other motors. I have tried using different voltages and that seems to vary the speed and the noise, so it's worth experimenting a bit with that. Your comment about removing them for oiling is a good one. I had to remove one of the motors to do some remedial work on the point and found - the double sided pads don't like coming apart once stuch in place. Luckily I had a spare pad but you'll destroy the pad if / when you ever had to remove the motor - unless anyone knows a clever way to do it while keeping the pad in tack. Cheers....

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

An excellent point Vernon.

[@richardbrighton7737]

We have loads of spare pads ;-) ^RB DCCconcepts

[@RabidWombatz]

Awesomely to the point as usual Charlie. I have only one of these, purchased from DCC Concepts direct when I was poor, and they were in Naval Base, Perth. I’m rebuilding from scratch now and will use a range of point motors, all slow acting, and I plan to use push buttons (dcc concepts have very nice ones which include an LED). However, I wasn’t planning on using the point motor input. My understanding (I may be wrong ) is that if you use that input, the DCC system doesn’t know you’ve done it. For anything with automation it will not know that the position has changed. The solution I’m going to use for my panel is to utilise a digital input which then takes the signal and tells the matching digital address to change. I tailed it successfully on a couple of test points and will implement it fully on the new layout. If there is a better, easier way I’d love to know. DCC Train Automation provided my the basis of this approach.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Yes, RW, you are exactly right. It is vital that your control software is aware of the point changing. Regards Charlie

[@peterrust3715]

Re:sticky pads. I agree with their retention, but l back them off to just a nip. This reduces noise.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Yes you make an excellent point there Peter. Regards Charlie

[@jaym2381]

I use 22AWG solid core hookup wire to connect them. You can just press it into the hole without having to work the lever with a small screwdriver.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Jay, regards Charlie

[@stephenbromley2302]

I have 9 of the ip digital motors on my layout and they work great I still have about 8 Hornby surface point motors that still work fine and do the job but don’t look as pleasing sat on top of the layout in time I may change them for the ip digital.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I think that’s a sensible move Stephen. Regards Charlie

[@avlisk]

Not having used the Tortoise machines, and needing to choose, do these do more? Or are the available functions identical? Thanks.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

They are more adaptable than tortoise but that certainly doesn’t mean that they are more reliable. Regards Charlie

[@andrewstevenson5449]

Excellent video, thanks Charlie. I believe Tortoise point motors also have (some/all?) the switching functionality, so I wonder if you noticed any particular difference between your Tortoises and the Cobalts? Is it just the clippy connectors and lifetime warranty that mark the Cobalts out? Shame they don't build a lubrication hole into the casing. Like you say, nobody's going to start taking them apart once installed.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Yes Andrew, tortoise motors do have two switch circuits available. There are differences between them but at this stage I’m unable to comment as to which is better. Both have there own unique advantages. Regards Charlie

[@Bop7324]

Hi Charlie. I chose Cobalt IP Analogue for my layout build and now wish I’d gone for Tortoise. The Cobalts are extremely noisy, fiddly to wire up, one was DOA and I don’t have much faith in the rest to be honest.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

An interesting point Frank, I must confess all my installed ones are tortoise. Regards Charlie

[@keithleadbitter3766]

another 1st class practical video i noted you said you use 07/2 for all your point motors i have solonoid and use 16/2 wire do solonods need this wire or do you think 07/2 would suffice my max run is 3/4 feet thank you

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Perhaps 16/02 would be better for solenoids due to the current pull. Regards Charlie

[@charlesemerson6763]

Still like a Tortoise. Been running those for 30yrs and never had a failure. I tried Cobalts when they first came out. The less said the better.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Interesting Charles, I certainly won’t be changing over.

[@BillySugger1965]

Charlie, regarding not oiling your Cobalt point motors, you may well find that the lifetime guarantee depends on doing that. If I were selling items with a lifetime guarantee which required periodic maintenance, I wouldn’t be honouring that if maintenance neglect led to the failure. Just a thought there.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

An interesting point B5375. Regards Charlie

[@MalcolmCrabbe]

Excellent video Charlie. Mind you, 50 point motors at £22 a pop ! -That's some serious investment. I went cheap, used an Arduino Nano which plugs into my own design of daughter board to handle the 16 switches and 32 LEDs, with the points being controlled by my own tweaked 3d printed version of a linear motion servo motor. This is driven from a PCA9685 servo board all of which is documented on my channel and it will soon be fitted to the layout I'm currently building. Granted these DIY approaches lack the convenience of frog switching etc that the Colbalts and Tortoise motors offer all in one unit, but then you would expect that when spending over £1000 on a means to change all the points on a layout the size of Chadwick (hate to think how much has been spent on McKinley!!) I just want to add that I've been very impressed with your videoing skills on the recent McKinley videos, especially the ASMR videos featuring Ivana....Keep up the good work

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m pleased you enjoyed the video Malcolm. My filming down at McKinley is very rewarding. I’m so pleased that you find it interesting. Regards Charlie

[@axelBr1]

I was going to say, can't you cheaply switch the electro-frog using a MOSFET, but while commenting elsewhere I saw that DCC switches the polarity of the rails, which would make the electronics quite complicated. A bunch of tiny relays should do the trick, although all costs money and more pins off your Arduino.

[@HenrikScheel_]

I have 20+ IP model installed. Never had any issues. They do give a clean layout since they remove the need for a controller. Only downsize is they are a bit noisy.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Henrik, regards Charlie

[@deeadam1649]

Brilliant video, perhaps for us oldies, could you advise alternatives to these, price versus operation, those that work with ECoS system, or similar with ability to program using eg the equivalent of an ECoS track schema. Just a thought. Love your vids.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I’m sorry Dee, but I don’t know how your system works. Any non-DCC point motor will need a stationary decoder of some description. Regards Charlie

[@alanenfield984]

For what it’s worth, I have both on my layout and with simple switch controls I prefer the sound and smoothness of the tortoise. However, when I wanted to set up 6 routes into the TMD involving multiple point movements with a single push button to set a route, I couldn’t get the tortoise motors to work with a diode matrix (future video Charlie?). So I got 6 of the Cobalt Digital IP and they do work a treat. Nice that you can control them digitally to and also centre the wire if necessary all from the controller. Also no soldering of course.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

An excellent comment Alan and most useful. Regards Charlie.

[@fjrsteve]

Hi Charlie, excellent review. I model in N scale and in my current layout I found that the size of the slow action motors was going to be very problematic. For example, I have a 4 track junction with crossovers at either end of a Peco double crossover. This means 4 point motors in a 2"x2" area at each end of the double crossover, or 12 motors in a 28" length for the whole junction! it was tight enough with the Peco/Seep solenoids. :) If I was modelling in a larger scale I would use servos for a more realistic change action and quietness of operation.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I feel your pain Steve, it’s not easy for N gauge modellers. Regards Charlie

[@alecwillis1073]

@@ChadwickModelRailway I am not an N Gauge modeller but I has a density of point work on one part my may layout and poor accessibility from under the baseboard. I mounted a couple of Cobalts away from the points and used point rodding (also from DCC) to control them. I also wonder whether adding the "horseshoe" half-loop in line with the rodding could solve some of the "accuracy" issues mentioned above i.e. set the Cobalt swing to be slight more than required and let the horse show take up the slack with the point blade hits the stock rail? I have not tried this but maybe a thought?

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

It’s certainly worth a try Alec.

[@paulreynolds1510]

I am helping someone to build there own dcc layout and I’ve just fitted 28 Point motors to the layout, and they’re easy and quick to fit

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Clearly you’re having great success Paul. Regards Charlie

[@paulreynolds1510]

@@ChadwickModelRailway yep considering this is my first dip into the pool of DCC World Learning on the job, using a Z21 system

[@Pierre-de-Standing]

Great review Charlie. The IP digital is something that I started to implement, but the cost is eye watering, so I have since started investigating the use of Arduino and servo motors as demonstrated at Little Wicket and IoTT. An Arduino can be had for less than a fiver and servos are dirt cheap also. The complexity is in controlling the frog (usually you would use a micro switch for this) and also the coding for the Arduino, also getting a supply from a DCC source to power and supply the DCC packets to the Arduino is a headache. The coding is not an issue for me, and I think brackets can be obtained from MERG to both mount the servo and a micro switch. The power supply and DCC source for the Arduino requires two or three other items that I have yet to resolve, but the information is out there for those who are prepared to do some intensive DIY DCC point operation.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

You make a very interesting point Jane. I think that I shall have to approach the MERG society and perhaps put a video together once I fully understand the system. Regards Charlie

[@frankhellman6879]

There's a lot on KZbin if you can separate it from the technical stuff and get to the model railroading stuff. These are sources that I've found on Arduinos that don't give me a headache, and some specifically on turnout servo control. For those not familiar, there are 16 channel (turnout servo) controller board 'shields' that can be easily plugged onto an Arduino in multiples to control 100+ turnouts. Most of these & other model railroad videos on Arduinos have free code & webpage links listed in the video description that need to be downloaded (all free, no gimmicks). Arduinos are moderately easy to set up and the free programs can be easily uploaded - no need to type them in. The KZbin channels below include easy instruction videos on that, too. It's not hard, just follow instructions exactly. KZbin Channels: Dave Bodner DIY & Digital Dronebot (Arduino learning that's easy on the brain) Fred E Model Railroad ("Arduino, DCC++, JMRI") Geoff Bunza LearnElectronics (several Arduino videos) LS3Jack Mert Arduino & DIY ("16 servo controller") Rob the N Scaler (applies to HO, etc.) Robojax (PCA9685 video) Rudys Model Railway (👉the Mother-load on Arduino uses for model railroading and also for TrainController tutorials) For ongoing iTrain tutorials see the Bob Fuller channel. Tom's Trains & Things (Lots of Arduino stuff. Best if viewed at 1.2X playback speed.) KZbin Model Builders (Feb 7, 2018 tutorial on Arduino turnout control) Rhythm Railroad ("Servo controlled turnouts" & "Using Servos to Control Turnouts") oorail ("Model Railway Computer Control - Which Boards to Use") .

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Frank, that’s a lot of research. Regards Charlie

[@frankhellman6879]

@@ChadwickModelRailway With so much good and mediocre information out there, it's convenient to keep track of the good stuff. I have many references to your channel. But sadly, you don't do much on Arduino controlled turnouts. lol!

[@alanmusicman3385]

@jane Swift you don't really even need to use Arduino. ESP8266 family Microcontrollers can be programmed using the Arduino IDE and if you use an ESP-01 board and programmer you can get the compute side of the solution for £1.50 or so AND those boards also give you WiFi built in which makes the control and telemetry side of a solution an almost all software affair.

[@ianmatterface2599]

One of the reasons you give for not going for the less expensive Classic point motor is the higher current draw when stalled. Might be worth noting that if you use the Megapoint system to control your points it automatically switches off the power after 5 seconds therefore no permanent current draw. Same would also apply to the IP Analogue motor.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

No Ian, it was purely an comparison between the 3 types of Cobalt. Otherwise, I would have gone deeper into servos and tortoise. Regards Charlie

[@kellyparkstone3520]

Megapoints do a control system for cobalt point motors just using a Netwok cable between control panel and layout. Personally wouldn't consider it beneficial to pay the extra £4

[@patrickhunt8644]

Ditto the ESU Switch Pilot Servo

[@michaelimpey1407]

Charlie, Your video is very timely. I am getting tired of the Peco solenoid thump, and buzz. It does ruin the mood. I have just started to research new point motors. As I am DCC with sound, I think you have pointed me in the right direction. The DCC Concepts IP Digital is the one. The next issue is finding stock in Australia, as supply chains are not good at present. I will have to now save up my pocket money, and find stock. Cheers, and thanks as usual for a very informatiove, and interesting video. Stay safe, Michael

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Hi Michael, I’m so pleased you found it useful. However, I thought that DCC Concepts. was an Australian company, surely you can buy them at home. Regards Charlie

[@michaelimpey1407]

@@ChadwickModelRailway, Charlie, I thought that they were UK, but I may be wrong. Most of our big hobby shops are all sold out at the moment, but I will do some research. Michael

[@Rock_God]

I believe that DCCconcepts were originally from Oz but relocated to the UK and are based at Settle in North Yorkshire. Best, Jason.

[@michaelimpey1407]

@@Rock_God Thanks for clarifying. That makes sense, all our great developers and manufacturers leave. Cheers all, and stay safe, Michael

[@dkorthout]

Charly, could you tel me what type of printer and labels you use for your cables?

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Hi, the printer is made by a company called brother. If you go to the show more tab on any of my videos you will find the printer listed with all the links and the replacement cartridges. Regards Charlie

[@MartinWatts-hx1xq]

Hi Charlie, are you going to do a test of DCC Concepts' ESP wireless products. I am just starting my first layout after 40 years and was intrigued by the idea of wireless, particularly as far as points are concerned. Thanks Martin

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

No Martin, I cannot use the ESP wireless system. It cannot interact with Digitrax. Regards, Charlie

[@andrewdonald2770]

Hi Charlie thanks for a thorough review, always nice to here about function without a too much focus on the underlying technology. I can attest to the warranty provisions, I had to return one IP digital out of a batch of 12, must have slipped through QA. DCC concepts sent me a replacement as soon as they received the duff motor - and that is here in Aus. I have only ever used the Cobalt motors so I have no reference for noise. Are the cobalt motors noisier or more quiet than the Tortoise machines?

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Great comment Andrew and much appreciated. Regards Charlie.

[@rjl110919581]

THANK YOU FOR SHARING VIDEO

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

You’re most welcome Robert. Regards Charlie

[@Accessibility-Track-Chris-Law]

After my own comparison I went with Tortoise/Smail over Cobalt IP, because Cobalt was a bit noisier in operation. I want quiet running where possible.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks Chris, much appreciated. Regards Charlie

[@andersgullberg]

Hello Charlie! I did ordered one Cobalt IP analog motor yesterday and see forward to test it. I have tortoise motor at home and can see difference between those motors. It is range of motion in the lateral joint. Did you tested too with at Peco code 75 turnout?

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

No Anders, just with code 100. Regards Charlie

[@thebats5270]

Great video! Just a quick question, maybe you can help? I have got my DCC Concepts IP Analogue hooked up to my Peco points at the moment. As I didn't know what point motors I would be using when I set my layout up over a 2 years ago and was hand throwing the points for operations I left my Peco point spring in. Other than the loss of slow point operation, are there any other drawbacks of leaving the point spring in? I'm a DC modeller who didn't know better to put in a jumper wire prior to gluing the points down. In my case, the connection of the switch throw is very important to ensure that the rails between the switch and crossing are powered. Thanks for any help. If you aren't sure all good. Love your stuff! Love this product with nothing but good things to say about it!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

The removal of the spring, is not necessarily essential. It just means that the point will click across rather than be a smooth slow action. It might not even be noticeable. Regarding point modification, you are where you are, just keep the point blades very clean. This should work okay, regards Charlie

[@thebats5270]

@@ChadwickModelRailway Thanks Charlie!

[@davidberlanny3308]

Hi Charlie, very interesting video!! Always good to see the duet on the test bench!! Lots of great info in the comments as well. I was starting to wonder what kind of noise point changes make in real life and how quickly they move. I have a few Dublo solenoid points that one day will get put into operation. Obviously the Hornby Dublo is very dated by comparison to what you are doing. Nonetheless I find the enthusiasm for the hobby that you transmit is infectious and I always learn something. Good luck from Spain!!

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

That’s very kind of you to say so David. Stay safe mate, regards Charlie

[@grahamlawrance6173]

Excellent video, thank you. Points are often in pairs could you use one cobalt ip digital with the “position lever” you briefly displayed to operate both points?

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

I will get onto DCC Concepts for clarity Graham. Regards Charlie

[@alecwillis1073]

Hi Charlie Nice review. Pretty much what I have found. I've got about 30 of these and been running for 5 years without mechanical failure. I had a couple just go dead and were replaced swiftly without quibble so the guarantee is exactly what it says. I use the crack on some and they are pretty good. I also use the point rodding in a couple of places also from DCC Concepts. Richard Johnson is a good guy. The only criticism is that I could not find a way to automatically centre the Cobalts. I always test gear before I get under the boards and to install them it's best to have the device centred. Once you test them, they stay set in one or other direction and unless you pull the power as they are changing, I am not sure there is an auto-centre. But perhaps I am missing a trick. You should perhaps review the Cobalt SS DCC one day as these a fabulous little things where space is critical - but an entirely different ball game installing. I also like the quick [programming to reverse the action and have that set-up as a special button on my ESU controller.

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Thanks for such a reassuring comment Alec. Regards Charlie

[@richardbrighton7737]

Hi Alec - if you want some help enabling self-centering, we can help with that - drop us a line :) ^RB DCCconcepts

[@denniscuffe]

Hello Charlie, I’ve watched all your videos on the rebuild lovely job, but how do you control the points,do you have a control panel??

[@ChadwickModelRailway]

Hi Dennis, no I don’t have a control panel. The points will be changed on a touch sensitive panel. Regards Charlie

[@denniscuffe]

@@ChadwickModelRailway thanks Charlie,