dc reverse loop hook-up

[ace24]

what is the proper way to hook up a dc reverse loop.is there any company that makes a dc reverse loop product. please let me know.  thank you .  ace24

[jeffrey-wimberly]

I don't know of any for DC. For DCC I know of two. One is made by MRC and the other is made by Bachmann.

[richhotrain]

Why not just wire a DPDT switch?

http://modeltrains.about.com/od/track/ss/Reverse-Loops_2.htm

Rich

[ATLANTIC CENTRAL]

ace24

what is the proper way to hook up a dc reverse loop.is there any company that makes a dc reverse loop product. please let me know.  thank you .  ace24

The traditional way is to have seperate reverse switch just for the loop, while the train is in the loop, you revers the mainline direction switch so that the polarity will be correct when the train comes out of the loop.

There are a number of basic wiring books that will diagram this for you.

There are some more advanced ways, but doing it automatically is not generally considered a good idea with DC.

Usually, DC layoyts are set up so that direction switch position is consistent with direction of movement - switch tothe left, train moves left or "West" on the main line.

BUT, there are a number of ways to "semi sutomate" reverse loops depending on your track plan and operational needs.

One way is to link the polarity of the loop through contacts on the switch machine of the turnout controlling the loop. It works like this, no matter which way the turnout is set, the loop polarity is correct for the train to enter the loop. Once the train is in the loop, the operator must bring the train to a stop before throwing the "loop" turnout. After the turnout is thrown, the operator changes his primary direction switch - because his direction on the mainline is now reversed, and then proceeds out of the loop. Diagrams for this setup are in several of the older DC wiring books available.

There are a number of other options, it all depends on your particular track arrangement and operational needs.

Sheldon