toggle switches for new n scale layout

[outdoorsfellar]

I have two MRC Control Master 20's that I'm using for cab control. I want to use spdt mini toggles for my common rail wiring. They're rated at 3 amps. Is this feasable ?

[Seamonster]

The 3 amp rating is quite sufficient. Single pole switches are what you would need for common rail wiring. However, since you are using two throttles, the switches need to be the centre-off type. That is, they have three positions: left, centre, right. In the centre position, there is no connection between the rails and either throttle. This is the position you want the switches in whenever a block is not in use. One thing to keep in mind when wiring toggle switches--but you may already know this--is that you connect the rail to the centre terminal, the left throttle to the right terminal and the right throttle to the left terminal.

[outdoorsfellar]

Thank you. I do know that the center terminal is for the track, but the right terminal is for the left throttle ??

[willpick]

Yep, strange as it may seem, the right terminal is for the left throttle[:)]. It's due to the way the switch operates- when the toggle (handle) is to the left, the center term. is connected to the RIGHT terminal-- and vice versa if the handle is to the right[:)].
HTH!

[Seamonster]

It sounds strange, but that's the way toggle switches are built. Think of the contact inside as a see-saw that moves up and down at each end to make contact at its ends. Think of the handle as continuing on into the switch, having a pivot point where it enters the switch. If you move one end of something that's pivoted in the middle to the left, the other end moves to the right. That presses down on the right side of the see-saw and pushes it down to make contact with the right terminal.

I don't want that this should confuse you, but that applies only to toggle switches. Slide switches are the opposite--they connect to the contacts at whichever end you slide the handle to. There's no see saw inside a toggle switch, just a slider. But, I suspect most of us use toggle switches because they're easier to install--just drill a round hole (1/4" for the miniature switches) instead of cutting out a rectangular hole.

[ARTHILL]

I found wonderful DPDTcenter off microswitches in a surplus store for $.50. you don't have to use all the terminals.

[outdoorsfellar]

Thanx guys ! I guess I've figured it out & went ahead & ordered 55 of em !