PIKO and LGB switch machines

[Madman]

I am thouroughly familiar with LGB switch machines. However I have not tried any of the Piko switch machines, supplementary switches and switch contollers. Does anyone here operate these devices? If so, how would you compare them with LGB products? One more question, are they compatible with the EPL system?
http://www.wholesaletrains.com/Detail.asp?ID=200801214
http://www.wholesaletrains.com/Detail.asp?ID=200829337
http://www.wholesaletrains.com/Detail.asp?ID=200841785

 

[steve parberry]

Have one here but its not in use!!!

Two wires just the same but the biggest differance is its size....Compared to the LGB version its HUge:wits::wits::wits:

Does come with rubber seals on it and looks more robust but for me its non standard so i just use it as my programing motor

 

[Nodrog1826]

There is a short thread here.....

http://www.gscalecentral.net/tm?m=22361&high=35271

 

[Madman]

Thanks. That was helpful.

 

[whatlep]

Thanks. That was helpful.

For what it's worth, a Piko machine has been outside alongside LGB equivalents for over 12 months now with no real difference between the brands. The Piko ones are better weatherproofed (no water inside when flooded!). In frosty weather, the Piko ones seem less likely to suffer a frozen tiebar in the point machine, but since the point tiebar freezes just the same, it's a bit academic. Bottom line, it's a drop in replacement and provided the extra size of the Piko offering isn't an issue, the Piko switch machines are fine.

 

[sparky230]

Chalk's have both LGB and Piko in stock

 

[whatlep]

At Garden Railway Centre (Cheltenham) just after the non-Apocalypse:

LGB motor £21.34
Piko motor £27.08

Having used both, I'd say just go with whichever is cheapest. As Paul has written, LGB's motors will survive being wet. Some of mine have been under a foot (300mm) of water more than once and - once cleaned - worked just fine afterwards.

 

[bigjack]

I bought my Piko point motors from Dragon G Scale. I think they were less than £20.