Wanted: simple back and forth Fastrack schematic w/pushbutton operation

[fifedog]

Like the topic reads, wanting an easy-peasy wiring schematic with parts requirement, to work an E-unit engine, back and forth, on my Christmas layout.  The caveat being I want it to move, stop, reverse, but at the push of a button (not automatic).

Gotta give those little fingers something to push.

I'm guessing there's a lot of others out there putting together ideas for next month that this might help as well.

[lionelsoni]

Put an SPST-NC pushbutton switch, like this one:

http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/07-22/GH7520-ND/2417169

in series with the wire from the transformer to the center rail.

[KRM]

fifedog

 

Gotta give those little fingers something to push.

 

 

The hard part will be getting those little fingers to push it at the right time!!!

[fifedog]

Thanks Bob.  That's a good start (I like the Kadee #165 in red), but I still need the train to stop on its own at each end.  The SPST is to send it back the other way.

[ADCX Rob]

Which "E-unit engine"? That's going to make a big difference.

[fifedog]

I would prefer to use a RMT "Beep" for this little operation.  It would be pushing-pulling 2 ore cars a distance of 5 feet, and at a crawl.

[ADCX Rob]

If you are comfortable making a few modifications(easily reversible) to the Beep, it's an easy job.

Rewire the motors in series for low speed operation.

Replace the reverse unit with a 103 type 2 position. Position one will power a full wave bridge rectifier with the  + & - terminals connected to the motors.  Position two will power another full wave bridge rectifier with the  + & - terminals connected to the motors in the opposite... - & +. That will take care of the reversing with each power-up.

Insulate the center rail of each section of track that you want the loco to stop on(the "stop section") and put a lockon on each section. Power the rest of the track with lockons in the usual fashion.

Now connect the above switch - one leg to the always powered section's center rail(clip 1 on lockon), the other leg to both stop sections' center rail lockon clip 1.

Push and hold the button long enough for the train to leave the stop section, release, and the train will stop at the other stop section. The action is repeated as the train goes back to the other section.

[Banks]

Fife,

How about the end sections of trac are not powered until a NO button is pushed. If i remember correctly the button would have to be pushed twice and held down the second time until the engine got to the power.

[Banks]

ACDX beat me to it

[fifedog]

Thanks fellas.