I have two tracks basically side by side with switches to go from one track to the other. I know simple!
The second track is on slight incline so it passes over first track at two locations. And then returns to table top level where the switch tracks are. My question, and I think I have the right answer, but I thought some experts might help!!
I was looking at layout this morning and wondered. If I use crossovers where the tracks converge instead of having the inclines and keep them on the same level--would I be able to block the section before the crossover to stop trains before they collide? If I read one of my electrical books right it says that the crossovers are "frogged" to allow separate control of the tracks.
I guess I basically want to have the whole layout on the table top with no passovers. And be able to stop the trains when coming to the intersection?! larry
Most commercial crossings are made so that the crossing tracks are electrically isolated from each other, so there should be no feed through from one side to the other. If the trains are controlled by separate controllers, it should be no problem to stop one so the other can pass through the crossing.
Just remember to do it.
roger that and thanks a lot. I figured i could, I just wanted to get some official word before doing the change. Love that finish too--"Just remember!" thnx again
Yes, the one place the club layout's main line crosses over itself has had more accidents than the entire rest of the layouts combined.
Wouldn't it help to have a short isolated section of track (slightly longer than span of electrical pickup of locomotive) controlled by a switch to ensure that accidents didn't happen (too often).
Co-owner of the proposed CT River Valley RR (HO scale) http://home.comcast.net/~docinct/CTRiverValleyRR/
Like an electrical shutoff switch to the section before the crossover that would automatically stop the other train? I'm not up enough on that challenge yet, but sounds interested, especially if operator gets busy with something else. HMMMMM might look into that later
I don't have problems any longer using a crossover.
Go to: www.circuitron.com and download their catalog and on page 37, item 371 is the exact item that you are looking for, it's completely automatic and sure is an attention getter for you guest.
hope this helps
Paul Noiseux
Lac-Megantic,Quebec
paulnoiseux@hotmail.com
sebreeunitedmeth@bellsouth.netLike an electrical shutoff switch to the section before the crossover that would automatically stop the other train?
I was thinking DPDT manual switch. The automated solution (see above) from Circuitron is a tad expensive ($95).