Lionel Uncoupler Wireing

[Anonymous]

Does anyone know where each of the four wires go, and how it gets it's power, on a Lionel Uncoupler. I do not see any numbers on this piece,

Thanks,
Bob

[Anonymous]

You will need to specify which uncoupling track section you have: either UCS, RCS or 6019 since they vary in terms of their wiring. For the UCS (distinguished by the circular coil in the center of the track section and heavy weight), to explain this let's start by holding the track section in your hand with the terminal strip at the bottom and numbering the terminals 1-4. The Lionel service manual wiring diagram explains the terminals on the uncoupling track section this way:
1 is for "ground," 2 is for the short left side rails, 3 is for "power," and 4 is for the short right side rails. The electrical current for the track section is provided for the the uncoupling track section from the center rail(s) of the adjoining track sections. The ground is provided by the outside rail(s) of the adjoining track sections. The two button controller operates either the center coil or the short rails. Assuming the wiring from the controller has not been altered from the factory orientation, lay the controller on a table, lay the cable flat, and hook up your wires to the track section with this same orientation. Hope this helps.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the info. Now I am half way there. Where terminls do the wires 1-2-3-4 go to in the little black box with two red buttons on it? How does this uncoupler get power to it? Is is from the rails? As you can see, this is my first encounter with Lionel.. You say that the number 3 terminal on the track is for power. Where does this power come from. Bye the Bye, I do have the UCS. Three long tracks and two short tracks.
Do I need car on this track to make it work??

[Anonymous]

Gee and I thought you were seriously seeking help with your uncoupling track. Why would you have an uncoupling track section if it was not to be used for two cars to uncouple? So, yes, unless you want to use the UCS track as a paperweight or doorstop, you do need at least two cars coupled together.

As to where does the electricity come from, I suppose you should define "where" and describe where you live since the electricity might be supplied by solar power, wind power, hydroelectric, etc.

You can, however, find out all you need to know about your track section in a variety of books available at train stores or your public library. Good luck.