Lionel Layout Wiring Question: Separate transformers for Switches/RCS?

[Brian@OSU]

Hi, Can anyone tell me if I can use a separate transformer (not the one powering the track) to supply the fixed voltage to my 022 switches?  For example, I have a ZW running the trains, but want to use a Type Z for all my accessories, switch tracks, etc.  Can I supply the fixed voltage from a terminal on the Z even thought the track power and common are supplied by the ZW?

 

Also, does anyone know if it is possible to supply fixed voltage to the RCS track so I can run the train slow and still successfully uncouple a car as it passes? I'd like higher power to the magnet without having to raise track power.

 

Thank you all!

Brian

[Stourbridge Lion]

Brian - Welcome to Trains.com!

[KRM]

Brian,

 I had asked that question on 027 switches, not the same as 022s but a lot of information here.

http://cs.trains.com/TRCCS/forums/t/197111.aspx

Kev.

[gunrunnerjohn]

It's easy to wire 022 switches for separate power, not so easy to wire O27 switches that way.  You can use a separate transformer, just make sure they're all phased the same and have a common that is connected.  Truthfully, phasing isn't important if you don't ever connect them together, I do it just in case.

 

It is possible to wire the RCS track for separate power, here's the Lionel RCS Track User Manual.

 

[lionelsoni]

A transformer used only for accessories does not need to be in phase with the track voltage.  In fact, if it is powering an accessory that uses the outside rails for its return, the return current will cancel some of the voltage drop in the track.  This however doesn't help much with turnouts which draw current only briefly when thrown.