[Robert Stokes]

There are alternatives to the Tortoise motors that work in the same way, i.e. slow action, but are smaller or cheaper or both. The fulgurex (which I have not used) are much smaller and a little cheaper than Tortoise. The Conrad point motor from Germany is much smaller and a lot cheaper (about £5 or less depending on exchange rate). I have used these and they are OK if somewhat delicate. They are unusual in working off AC and having build in diodes. They also use the same sort of switches as Peco types.

I am actually looking to buy ten more of these Conrad motors but don't want to send off to Germany for them. Does anyone know of a place in England where I can get them from? Robert.

 

[Robert Stokes]

The Hoffmann does look to be the same as the Conrad but it's about twice the price.

 

[Robert Stokes]

The speed of conrad point motors, like the speed of any of the slow action type, can be controlled by altering the voltage supplied to them. I also found them too fast when given 12 to 16 volts. However, at about 7.5 volts they are quite a bit slower and quieter. I have a plug-in AC to AC transformer which has a control to alter it from 3V to 12V in steps of 1.5V.

 

[Robert Stokes]

Doug, if you have any Conrad point motors that you no longer want, then I will be happy to pay £3 each for them.
Cheers, Robert.

 

[Robert Stokes]

Thanks Jim. I did order direct from Germany a few weeks ago. With the exchange rate not in Britain's favour they cost me £60 for ten including postage. They arrived very quickly; only two days later if I remember correctly. Then another ten arrived the next day! It may have been my mistake and I clicked the order twice or their mistake. I decided not to try to send them back. I may be able to use some on signals and will keep the others for "one day".

Robert.