Hi!
My layout in progress is HO, 11x15, with a lower level staging/storage area. The grade from the main to lower level is 2%, and the benchwork should be complete by week end. Obviously, before I build out the main level, I need to lay the roadbed & track for the grade and lower level, as well as install the DCC power bus(s) and track feeders. The power bus is 14 awg, and track feeders will be less than 12 inches and 20 awg. Feeders will be placed every 3 feet. And, all wiring will be soldered, as will the track.
The Digitrax super chief will be hooked directly to the two staging bus(s) for testing purposes - which I "assume" is ok. Other than running the trains "up and down", is there anything else I should check?
My test locos will be a BLI 4-8-4 or 2-10-4, and an RSD-15, with walthers passenger cars - heavyweight & lightweight as test consists.
Getting anxious!
Mobilman44
ENJOY !
Living in southeast Texas, formerly modeling the "postwar" Santa Fe and Illinois Central
Sounds like a plan to me. Just don't run them off the edge! (ask how I know) Once there's enough track past the end of the staging ladder, you'll want to run through each turnout to make sure none short (or derail) and the power is continuous.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
Thanks Randy!
You (and others) have been a Godsend in my journey from "DC forever" to where I am now. Frankly, without youall and this Forum, I would not have attempted DCC.
The benchwork is coming along nicely, and I look forward to completing the lower level so I can get into the real meat of the layout on the main level. I truly enjoy every aspect of layout building and "getting there" is a great deal of the fun.
ENJOY !!!!
Sounds like a good plan.
My best advice: Test each engine one at a time, while SLOWLY moving through each turnout.
If you get power shorts with no trains on the track, try breaking the wiring into "districts" to help isolate the problem. Most people test a "powered section" at a time.
Don - Specializing in layout DC->DCC conversions
Modeling C&O transition era and steel industries There's Nothing Like Big Steam!