posted
Okay again a queston from the past. I am not planning on using DCC just yet. I am going to use Automatic reversing loop controllers assuming they will work with or without DCC.
THIS IS A HO SCALE Layout
I know I will need insulated rail joiners. in the past I used clear ones but forgot the name.. anyone know? are there better ways for this avail. now? I have 2 main loops and 2 reverse loops planned for my layout which consist of a 10x8 bench a 11x5 bench and a 6x5 joning section. I know I will need power in more then one spot. I though since I am not going to DCC just yet I would wire toggle switches for each block. Not sur eif I want to use common rail or not.. Give me suggestions
I have 2 MRC TECH II 2500's for the mains and reverse loops. and Temporarily will be using a MRC Locomotion V dual pack for the yards..
Thoughts?
I would rather use toggle switches instead of the Atlas stuff.. Thanks
Posts: 23 | From: IL, USA | Registered: Dec 2000
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Jeff, I have wired my rr with the "two rail" system. If I had it to do all over, I go with common rail. It cuts way down on the amount of wireing required. Someday I may do it anyway. I have a large basement layout 14x40 I use 14 gauge for the supply wire (the kind used in conduit wiring) and 22 gauge for the track drops. Using the 14 keeps me from having to worry about any voltage drops and is a lot less expensive than 16. In a rr the size of yours you will be using a lot of wire. You should wire each block seperately even if you do go to DCC! I would suggest you pick up a copy of a model rr wireing manual. They are available at most model rr shops or you can order one from Kalambach or Carstens publishing. Also, when you go to buy components,toggles terminal strips etc, try www.hosfelt.com they are wholsale suppliers and you will be able to get them alot cheaper. Good luck, Scott
Posts: 127 | From: Gunnison, CO, USA | Registered: Jul 2000
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Jeff, Forgot about your question regarding insulated rail joiners. As far as I know there isn't any new product beside the "old reliable. Atlas makes an inexpensive package of them, and they are readily available. In many cases, I lay the track with white glue then when dry will cut a joint where I need it with a cutoff disk in a moto-tool. when the track is weathered and balasted it really doesn't make a lot of difference though. Scott
Posts: 127 | From: Gunnison, CO, USA | Registered: Jul 2000
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If I do common rail then one side both Controls (tech II's) will be tied to the same rail. Correct
I know if I do blocks I will need 2 Sets of switches for each block.. One for CAB A and one for CAB B to use for Direction and also another switch for each one for choosing Cab A or Cab B. I know the Atlas stuff uses common rail but I could never the reverse loop controller to work. Don't know why. So if I have 2 main lines and 2 reverse loops using common rail.. the reverse loops are then fully isolated and the common rail of both Tech II's are wired together and to the common rail on the track.
I plan to use 12 gauge runners for the layout (I have 2 400ft rolls leftover from my Garage) What gauge feeder to the rail should I use.. they will be Approx 6" long.
I will check into the books.. I have one from 15 years ago.. I think I need to get a new one though..
Thanks, Jeff
[This message has been edited by -=Jeff=- (edited 12-13-2000).]
Posts: 23 | From: IL, USA | Registered: Dec 2000
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posted
Jeff, I'm with Scott...go with the common rail. That is how I have wired all of my layouts and this works very well. As for the rest, sounds like you are on track to me!! Why buy a new book when you are using old tried and true technology!!
------------------ The Santa Fe and Southwestern, Chief of the Southwest!
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