How to install a Tortoise by Circuitron Switch Motor on a model railroad

[@jamescraft672]

I use SMAIL by Circuitron on my railroad. A SMAIL is a Tortoise that has a DCC decoder built into it. So mechanically it is exactly like a Tortoise, but the decoder allows you to control it through your DCC system. Each SMAIL decoder gets a unique address that can be used by the DCC controller to send it commands (like a locomotive, but a different address space). Also, the decoder can be programmed to perform the functions that would otherwise be performed by something like a Frog Juicer, i.e., the ability to detect an approaching train and realign as necessary. I haven't seen any videos that talk about using SMAILs, but I think they are a good alternative for people using DCC. To be honest, I never did a careful cost analysis to determine if the SMAIL saves money over, say, using a Tortoise plus a Frog Juicer. I'd be interested in getting a good review of SMAILs by the Video Plus staff. Finally, I would like to add to the comments of others by saying that I thought this series was the best one MRVP has done--it takes us through the process of building a railroad, from the bench work to the scenery. Very helpful for those of us in the process. Thanks!

[@82edje]

Hello, at 16:26 use nylon spacers to mount de PCB

[@ericrickert3045]

This was very good. I never understood the workings of these since I have 30 years old Bachmann track and those switches have solenoids (I think),

[@satnammutneja195]

Thanks, I’m waiting for the next video about the wiring. When is it going to be out.

[@rjl110919581]

thank you for detail video on install switch motor

[@chromag33]

Very nice video! Informative and fun, good job. Thanks for the information.

[@ajwillett7302]

Love these kids of videos! Keep them coming!

[@jamescraft672]

I wish I could turn my railroad up on edge so I didn't have to climb around beneath it when installing my SMAILs, etc. Since I'm using 2" foam instead of plywood as a sub-roadbed, I attach each SMAIL to a small piece of MDF (drilling holes to accommodate the mechanical and electrical connections), then hot-gluing the MDF to the foam. I also do as much of the SMAIL wiring as I can at the work bench to minimize time beneath the layout.

[@marksawyer5299]

If you are not a subscriber to MRR Video plus..You missed the entire build of this N-scale layout. It's an amazing series!

[@LittlePwnageMusicFan]

Yeah. But the original MRR website isn't secure.

[@davidorlando69Mach1]

Can you provide details on the lighted push button switches. Where can they be purchased?

[@johnmcdermott6220]

Great Videos, question, where did you purchase the lighted push button LEDs?

[@RotalHenricsson]

I arrived here browsing tortoise and turtle videos. I am thouroughly confused.

[@trickywho7463]

Wait until he starts talking about frogs 🐸 it’s around 14:00 😜

[@MoosesWorkshop]

Great video! I will be using a frog juicer on my Peco frogs as well. Still deciding on what DCC turnout control to use that is compatible with my MRC. Any ideas???

[@codecage9333]

Where is the video on the remote tortoise mount? Oops! Found it. But it isn't free. It's a hobby. Share the joy instead of making money and deriving the less fortunate from enjoying!