constant power switches

[asch]

I have a bunch of 027 profile 042 switches that I would like to make constant power rather then track powered. Does anybody on here have the wiring diagram that I can use or know how to do this?

[lionelsoni]

There is a lot of detail about this that you can find using the search function to the right.  Here is the executive summary:

One end of each of the solenoids inside the switch machine is wired to the center rail inside the turnout.  To operate the turnout on a separate voltage source, you need to get those wires disconnected and bring them out to reconnect them to that source.  You may be lucky and be able to fish out enough of the wire where it disappears under the plastic floor that you can cut and splice to it; but usually it is necessary to remove the metal bottom.  This involves drilling out rivets, to be replaced later by screws.  The frog is the major problem.  After drilling it out from the bottom, you need to drill and tap it for a flathead screw to reattach it.

However, simply reconnecting the solenoids is not a good idea, since it is too easy to burn them out by accidentally stopping a train on the non-derailing control rails.  You can, while you have the bottom off, disable that feature.  But a better solution is to power the turnout from a capacitive-discharge circuit, which you can make from a 5000 microfarad capacitor and a number 53 lamp.

[balidas]

Here is the thread. I was studying this last night.

 

http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/t/173684.aspx?PageIndex=1

[Civil War]

balidas

Here is the thread. I was studying this last night.

 

http://cs.trains.com/trccs/forums/t/173684.aspx?PageIndex=1

I started the thread and followed Bob's instructions to convert an 1122 turnout to a capacitive discharge system. I can tell you it works like a charm. There is also instructions on how to wire auxillary indicator lights on a control panel. I wrote the instructions up for an article for CTT but they thought it was too long. I have the article in my computer along with a list of supplies and where you can get them. If anyone wants these files, I will gladly send them. Just email me privately and I'll send them.

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