I am planning to build a small layout, very small, as in 4'x6' (I live in an apartment, so no room for much more). I intend to use the Lionel made Fastrack, but I also want to use a 759 Danger Bell, and some 760 Highway Flashers. Problem is that for Fastrack there are no equivelents to the 696 track trips needed to operate those accessories. So I am looking for alternative ways to trigger them.
I am aware that I could use Fastrack transition sections to insert a section of Gilbert track which could use the 696 track trip, but on such a small layout I really don't have room for that. I've also seen suggestions that use Z-stuff sensors to activate the accessories, but I think that would just turn the lights on, and not make them flash. Does anyone have suggestions?
The easiest, but not the cheapest option was the Dallee #587. However Dallee has added a note to that product listing saying"do not order, no longer available." In any event there is a video on their site with it controlling a Gilbert bell danger signal.
That looks pretty amazing! It looks like it would do exactly what I want. Pity it isn't available anymore. Are there any equivelents?
Z-Stuff makes the DZ1020 which is the modern replacement for the Bell Danger Signal. I have two on my layout. They are still available.
With the electronics supply chain issues these days many toy train items are out of stock. Might be worth contacting Dallee and asking if they expect to receive more or if it is permanently discontinued.
The Z-Stuff DZ1020 would be the easiest thing, true. But I'd really like to use the old Gilbert accessories (stop me if you've heard this before - I had them on my first trainset when I was a kid . . . ).
I came across the Azatrax website, and their MRX3 Crossing Signal Controller looks like it might do something similar to the Dallee. It even says it works with AC current and incandescent bulbs. Does anyone else have any experience with that product?
I am familiar with Azatrax, it will work. My opinion based on building many Gilbert layouts over the decades is to use the original Gilbert items whenever possible. Consider using the 696 track trips as they were designed to actuate the Bell Danger Signal. The only problem to solve is the attachment to the FasTrack. A Dremel with a cutting disc can remove parts of the plastic roadbed to allow the 696 to be glued into position. I have done this with the similar SHS track with plastic roadbed but not specifically with FasTrack.
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