Can the HM6010 double up on points

[Trebor1707821812]

I currently have five points on my track with my two of the points connecting two loops. Can I therefore connect the two points on the loops to just one of the hm6010 outputs?

thank you

[Chrissaf]

In principle yes, but the CDU in the HM6010 is a fairly weak one. The success of single port dual point operation will depend upon the Solenoid point motors being used. For example, it has previously been proven that using two different brands or models of point motors in parallel does not always work. The two point motors need to be of identical specification. The installation and alignment of the point motors need to be 100% accurate, else any slight misalignment can cause additional drag on one motor or another and affect their operational balance. The bottom line is that you will need to 'try it and see'.

[Trebor1707821812]

Perfect. Thank you. I am going to purchase the points soon. Any advice on which will be the easiest to get right?

[Chrissaf]

Assuming Hornby track. Hornby only do two Solenoid point motors. The R8014 designed for under-board mounting and the R8243 designed for above board mounting. Each have their 'pros and cons'.

R8014 alignment can be a little more onerous to get right, but the advantage is that the motor is out of sight under the board.

R8243, perhaps a little easier to install, but in my personal view rather unsightly mounted on the surface next to the point. In some certain situations where points are located together in close proximity you can end up with two R8243 motors trying to vie for the same physical space on the board. If the R8243 is chosen to install, note that the fixing screws must not be over-tightened. To do so, can cause the R8243 case to flex and the solenoid inside to stick. The fixing screws should only be done up enough to hold the R8243 in place and very sight movement should be felt when manipulating the case with ones finger tips.

Please note that I have edited your last reply to remove the re-quote element. As a brand new forum member and poster, just be aware that the 'Blue Button' you used is not a 'Reply to this post' button. This forum [unlike all other forums that you may be used to] does not have a 'Reply' button embedded in each individual post. The best way to reply, is to scroll down to the bottom of the page and write any reply you want to make in the 'Reply Text Box' located there and click the Green 'Post Reply' button.

[Trebor1707821812]

Great. Thank you very much for all the help. Very informative and useful.