Leslie, interesting to hear your comments and experiences.
In the past I've always used Peco fitted under the baseboard with the adapter and extension pin. That was back in the mid-1980s. I've often wondered if Peco would have improved upon them since that. I've seen the Gaugemaster point motors advertised for a Pack of 5 @£10 which is well worth the gamble, and they do not require soldering the connections.
I like the idea of surface mounting - I can hide at least five points in conveniently placed linseed huts, water towers and signal boxes!
Last year I was able to work points with a wire and tube but I'm a bit older and wiser now now bending and working under-hand is best avoided - my glasses keep falling off.
I've just rebuilt my baseboards, bought all my Code 75 track and paintwork, ordered my 3mm cork and waiting now for s nice South Eastern Finecast well turntable.
All being well, i'll be laying some track next weekend.
Thanks
Tony