Auto Reverser

[gdelmoro]

Hi, I have 2 reverse loops on my layout the length of the code 100 HO track is about 10 - 12 feet.  I know I connect one side of the auto reverser to the bus line and the other to the loop.  Is one connection sufficient for that length track?  Should I run the loop wires to a terminal strip and feed the loop at multiple locations?

[rrinker]

 For 10-12 feet of track I'd have at least 2 sets of feeders, maybe 3.

                                      --Randy

 

[Mark R.]

I'd say one pair of feeders is sufficient if your return loop track is all soldered together.

Mark.

[richhotrain]

Start with one pair of feeders to the reverse loop from the output side of the auto reverser.  If that proves insufficient, just add another pair of feeders. You could use a terminal block or just pig tail the two pair of feeders together.

Rich

[gdelmoro]

That sounds like a plan.  How long can the feeders be?  If I locate the Autoreverser in the center of the 10' track can I run 3' feeders?

[richhotrain]

gdelmoro

That sounds like a plan.  How long can the feeders be?  If I locate the Autoreverser in the center of the 10' track can I run 3' feeders?

 

In my experience that will work just fine.  I have 4 auto-reversers scattered across my layout because I have reversing sections to turn trains around on my double main line.  Each of the reversing sections is about 15 to 20 feet long, and each is powered by 3 or more pairs of feeders which are pig tailed together and fed into the output side of the respective auto-reverser. Most of those feeder wires are 3 feet or longer in length.

I use 14 gauge solid copper wire for my buses and sub-buses, and I use 22 gauge stranded copper wire for the feeders. The input and outside sides of the auto-reversers are fed by the 14 gauge wire, and the 22 gauge feeders are soldered to the 14 gauge bus wires.

Rich

[gdelmoro]

That helps. THANKYOU