Fastrack Switches

[Anonymous]

Hi everyone....I'm new this X-mas with Lionel 0/027 Set and have increased track length spanning 3 sheets of ply. I want to add 4 remote switches to allow the train to run the layout in either direction by creating a reverse loop. Is this the correct terminology and is it as straightforward as it seems? Does three rail prevent shorting out on this basic layout? Also ,I need to lenghten the wire to get to my control board-what is best way to splice to the remote switches? Thanks a million...Dan

[jkeaton]

Dan, using three rail Lionel track gives you a huge advantage over we two-rail guys - you can create as many reversing loops as you wish, and never worry about the polarity and shorting out problems of two rail, as no matter how you set up the track, the inside third rail only ever connects to the inside third rail!

As to lengthening the wire on your remote switch controllers, I'd suggest finding an electronics or industrial electric shop that will sell you a roll of three-wire cable, preferably colour-coded (each wire a different colour) and use that. Buy at least 18 gauge wire so you don't have too much voltage loss from the extra length - the standard wire Lionel uses is marginally small for these switches. Put the splice in the wiring as close to the controller as you can - frankly, I'd just coil up the wire that comes with the controller and have the splice right by the controller. That way, if there's a problem with the splice, it's right at hand to work on.

Jim

[Anonymous]

Thanks Jim! The fast reply is much appreciated. I'm new to this forum but I'm sure I'll be using it often. Dan