OPERATING CARS AND UNCOUPLING

[cheech]

I recognize TMCC/DCS equipment provides the uncoupling feature. that said, how do most people operate their 'operating cars' == log unloader, coal dump, etc.===in a lionel environment....GG and 0-27?

do the special gargraves tracks add value? or is the old lionel still the simplest way to go?

 thanks

ralph

[phillyreading]

Ralph, a.k.a. cheech,

You must have the TMCC or DCS capability built in to the operating car to use TMCC or DCS for the remote uncoupling feature to work.

GarGraves uncoupling track works very much like Lionel's uncoupling track for 031 tubular track, wiring will be differant on GarGraves compared to Lionel. One other thing about GarGraves uncoupling tracks is that you can put two or three together for a long section of uncoupling track and use regular GarGraves track pins for all five track connections.  GarGraves makes many special feature tracks for their system, even a power track with screw type terminals. Also some DZ Industry items are compatable with GarGraves track or are easier to use with GarGraves track.

Some of the old Lionel track may be hard to find as Lionel is focusing on selling Fastrac, so I would go with GarGraves track.

Lee F.

[eZAK]

If you find a good deal on 0-27 uncoupling track you can cut out the electro magnet section and cut it in almost anywhere on your layout. For example; I put them after the switches in my yard tracks.

For operating cars and accesories you can put in small electronics from http://www.electricrr.com/index.htm that work with TMCC.