reversing unit

[Anonymous]

Is there any way to make a cheap reversing unit for a point to point layout, instead of paying $130.00 for one?

[grandpopswalt]

Sure, all you need is a latching relay to reverse the polarity to the rails and a couple sensors at each end of the line to signal the relay to change state. You should be able to do it for about $20.

Grandpopswalt

[Anonymous]

cool thats much better than $130
two more questions though: what kind of sensors do you suggest? and where can i get the materials?
Thanks
Scott

[grandpopswalt]

Scott,

The simplest thing that comes to mind is a small magnet mounted on your loco and reed switchs mounted trackside that will be activated when the magnet approaches. When the reed switch contact closes, it allows voltage to the latching relay coil which in turn resets the track polarity in such a way as to make the train reverse direction. At the other end, the reed switch activates the reset coil and again the track polarity is reversed.

What I've described is very primative compared to a manufactured unit. It provides the same function as the $130 unit but without the bells and whistles, It does change train direction, but does it abruptly (full forward to full reverse instantly). So if you're not looking for anything fancy, something like this should work for you.

The magnets and reed switches are available from any Radio Shack. The latching relay will require a little hunting, you might try some of the electronic surplus outlets.

Grandpopswalt

[Anonymous]

Granpopswalt,
Thanks
I'll look into that.
Scott