Here is the requested fuller explanation:
I wanted a simple, straightforward way to run the bridge up or down, but with as little wiring as possible from the control area, which is at the opposite end of the layout. So I used the layout common (the outside rails generally) as the return side of the motor circuit and a single wire for DC voltage to the other terminal of the motor.
I get my DC as half-wave-rectified AC simply by putting a diode in series with the single motor wire at the electrical switch that I use to control the bridge. So that I can run the bridge either up or down, that switch is a single-pole-double-throw-center-off switch. So the bridge holds still when the switch handle is in the center; and, in each of the other two positions, it connects the control wire to a diode which in turn is connected to the AC transformer output voltage. The two diodes are pointing in opposite directions; so I can get either polarity of half-wave DC and run the bridge either up or down.
Finally, I don't want the bridge to go try to go up beyond vertical or down below horizontal. So I have limit switches at the bridge to open the circuit at each extreme. But each limit switch doesn't open the circuit completely, because it has a diode in parallel with the limit-switch contact. This is arranged to pass current of one polarity but block current in the other direction. So the bridge stops when it reaches the limit; but, when I want to go back the other way, the diode passes current in the necessary direction. The result is that I can flip the switch to move the bridge, then forget about it, knowing that it will stop by itself when it reaches its extreme destination.
Bob Nelson
Hi Everyone,
I;m new to the post, but reading it has helped me with my postwar layout. Does anyone know where I can get the 313 alignment bracket? I bought a used on and it did not have that or the controller. Thanks.
aboard!
Try Trainz.com. Here's what I found when I searched for "Lionel 313": https://www.trainz.com/search?q=lionel%20313
MTH also reproduced the 313 and contacting their parts department could prove useful.
Same me, different spelling!
Admittedly I haven't gone through their entire on-line parts inventory but maybe-possibly Henning's Trains might have it.
www.henningstrains.com
http://www.henningstrains.com
Our community is FREE to join. To participate you must either login or register for an account.
Get the Classic Toy Trains newsletter delivered to your inbox twice a month