027 Remote Control Switch

[dougdagrump]

Do the 027 R/C switches have the "Non-Derailing" the same as the "O" R/C switches?

The Lionel site provides no info. Went by my LHS yesterday and they didn't know so we popped open a box and no info on box nor in the operating/installation instructions.

For the halloween layout was thinking of just a single main, L shaped, with a reverse loop at each end.  

[lionelsoni]

Yes, they have the feature; but it is not the same.

In both cases, the train connects a "control rail" to the normal outside rail to operate the switch-machine coil.  However, in the O27 turnouts, the coil is always powered from the center rail.  So, if a train sits on the control rail with track voltage on, the coil remains energized and may eventually burn up.  The design depends on your removing the track voltage when the train stops, which is not always the case.  There is an internal electrical switch in the O31 turnouts that disconnects the coil after it has thrown the switch, protecting the coil from further heating.  This makes it practical to provide an optional jack for connecting continuous power to the turnout.  It also allows the lights in the controller to show the switch position.

See page 7 of the manual for a description of the "non-derailing" feature and a warning about overheating.

[Brutus]

Good info, thanks!  I've got 4 of these, new ones I just bought from the LHS, but I don't think I read that info about the coils anywhere.

[waltrapp]

Bob,

Sure looks like I sent my article, which you assisted me with in writing, to the wrong magazine, huh?

Boy, I really regret not sending it to CTT instead.

- walt

[ChiefEagles]

Insulating pins go on the inside common rail [not the middle rail].  Both ends, the straight and the Y.  Rewire to direct voltage if you use TMCC.  If you use TMCC and don't, you'll get crazy acting engines.  

[dougdagrump]

See page 7 of the manual for a description of the "non-derailing" feature and a warning about overheating.

Bob, Which manual are you referencing ?

Thanks, Doug

[lionelsoni]

The 5121 owner's manual, 700-5121-250:  http://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/AddPost.aspx?PostID=933344

[dougdagrump]

Boy, talk about feeling stupid. Don't know why I didn't think to look in the Lionel archives.

Thanks !!!!!!!!

                          

[RR Redneck]

I have no clue, I have never heard of this feature.