wiring track

[grammpa dave]

whats the best way to run 4 sections seperate power ,but they can run onto each section or run seperate --- grampa dave @ [e-mail] see my rr in its beginning stage at AMR

[lionelsoni]

Running between blocks powered from different transformers and from different outputs of the same transformer can cause large fault currents which, particularly in traditional Lionel transformers like the ZW, do not pass through the circuit breaker and can also generate voltage spikes which are likely harmful to modern locomotives.

I advocate using of some sort of block system, using (electrical) switches associated with the blocks to assign the blocks' center rails to one or another of the transformer outputs.  Then you can run a train anywhere while staying with one transformer output.

Notice that a block system has the incidental benefit of allowing you to subdivide your layout into more blocks than you have transformers, as many as you like, for greater flexibility.  If you use switches with an off position, you can also shut a block off completely.

[Eriediamond]

Running between blocks powered from different transformers and from different outputs of the same transformer can cause large fault currents which, particularly in traditional Lionel transformers like the ZW, do not pass through the circuit breaker and can also generate voltage spikes which are likely harmful to modern locomotives.

I advocate using of some sort of block system, using (electrical) switches associated with the blocks to assign the blocks' center rails to one or another of the transformer outputs.  Then you can run a train anywhere while staying with one transformer output.

Notice that a block system has the incidental benefit of allowing you to subdivide your layout into more blocks than you have transformers, as many as you like, for greater flexibility.  If you use switches with an off position, you can also shut a block off completely.

Bob, I'm familiar with the old tube type track and useing a fiber pin in the center rail. Now not knowing the fast track or other brands of this type track, how do you isolate this type of track?  Thanks, Ken 

[lionelsoni]

I have never used anything but tubular.  Can anyone else answer?

[phillyreading]

Ken,

About insulating Fastrac or Realtrack systems I think that you just leave out the center track pin or connecter, may have to use a pair of pliers to remove it.  I have worked with K-Line Super Streets and that is how to insulate a section of that system.

Another thing about controlling blocks with a toggle switch is you can use a double throw switch and make two blocks or put a couple together for three or four blocks. Run one output to the center of the second or third switch and you can run three blocks from two switches.

Lee F.

[johnandjulie13]

Bob, I'm familiar with the old tube type track and useing a fiber pin in the center rail. Now not knowing the fast track or other brands of this type track, how do you isolate this type of track?  Thanks, Ken 

Hello Ken:

Lionel sells insulated/isolated track sections (6-12060).  I have read about others making their own isolated sections by cutting the rails on a piece of track.

Regards,

John

[lionelsoni]

I'm not sure what Lee is describing; but I recommend that the switch be associated with the block, not with the transformer.  In other words, the switch determines which of several transformer outputs the block is connected to, rather than which of several blocks the transformer powers.  With the latter arrangement, using for example a single-pole-double-throw switch, it would be impossible to power both of two blocks at the same time from one transformer output.

When only two transformer outputs are used, the best choice for the switch associated with each block is probably a single-pole-double-throw-center-off (SPDT-CO) type.  When there are more than two transformer outputs, a single-pole rotary switch is often the choice.  However, there are also various ways to do it with a group of multiple toggle switches for each block.  Perhaps these are what Lee was referring to.

You can select from among up to 4 outputs with an SPDT and a DPDT.  You can handle 6 with an SPDT and two DPDTs.  And an SPDT and two 3PDTs will select among 8.  The 3PDT is a little harder to find, however.

[phillyreading]

I'm not sure what Lee is describing; but I recommend that the switch be associated with the block, not with the transformer.  In other words, the switch determines which of several transformer outputs the block is connected to, rather than which of several blocks the transformer powers.  With the latter arrangement, using for example a single-pole-double-throw switch, it would be impossible to power both of two blocks at the same time from one transformer output.

When only two transformer outputs are used, the best choice for the switch associated with each block is probably a single-pole-double-throw-center-off (SPDT-CO) type.  When there are more than two transformer outputs, a single-pole rotary switch is often the choice.  However, there are also various ways to do it with a group of multiple toggle switches for each block.  Perhaps these are what Lee was referring to.

You can select from among up to 4 outputs with an SPDT and a DPDT.  You can handle 6 with an SPDT and two DPDTs.  And an SPDT and two 3PDTs will select among 8.  The 3PDT is a little harder to find, however.

Bob,

What I am trying to describe is that you run power to the first double pole switch's center terminals then you run an output to the center terminal of the second switch and can control two blocks from that switch. You might want to use that arrangement with a more powerful transformer or if you have a switch yard. 

I only have one track so far controlled by DCS and only have one PS-2 locomotive so I still need to use toggle switches for power control.

Lee F.

[lionelsoni]

Why a double-pole first switch, Lee?  And how would you power more than one block at a time from the transformer output that feeds these switches?

[Buckeye Riveter]

To insulate Realtrax, just take electrical tape and wrap it on the connectors.  I use yellow tape and it has been working great for four years isolating a rail for the grade crossing sections.