I am an old-time 3-rail guy and new to n scale. Presently building an n scale railroad using Kato track and accessories. I want to know how best to wire a pair of left-hand switches, joined at the turnout (curved rail section). This switch combination is the only place where two long over the road loops come together. The problem is made more confusing by Kato's configuration that only supplies power in the direction in which the switch is thrown. Also, is this configuration the same as a reversing loop?
I would appreciate any advice anyone might provide as I am trying to avoid a mistake up front.
Thanks.
kwood44
Cheers, the Bear.
"One difference between pessimists and optimists is that while pessimists are more often right, optimists have far more fun."
kwood44,
It sounds like you're describing one of these:
That's called a "crossover". The one above is a right hand. You would be describing a left hand.
If that's correct, I'd recommend controlling both track switches with one electrical switch. So the crossover is either "straight" or it's "cross".
It is definitely not a reversing loop. So you don't have to do that "special fancy trick that two-railers do" (I started out with Lionel, as opposed to American Flyer).
You didn't say whether you are using DCC or straight DC.
If it's DC and you only want to run one train at a time, the wiring is pretty simple: just put track feeders wherever you want. If you've got two concentric loops connected with a crossover (that seems to be what you're describing), track feeders to each loop should keep a train running.
But most folks with those two concentric loops seem to want to run two trains at once. THAT is going to be a bit of work and a bit of thinking. I recommend picking up a layout wiring book. While the Kato site may well be informative, I still recommend a "generic" book. After all, electricity IS generic. From our sponsors:
https://kalmbachhobbystore.com/model-trains/books/12491__Wiring-Your-Model-Railroad
I'll also mention that you should try operating the layout in your mind. Generally, two concentric circles connected with only one crossover is, uh, irritating. That kind of layout usually has two.
Back to wiring: If you're doing DCC, the actual wiring gets rather simple. Again, a feeder to each loop ought to work.
My advice is kind of generic, as I don't have your trackplan. So, grain-of-salt, and all that. But I don't see any particular problems from your brief verbal description.
Ed
If the layout is a dog bone shape with loops at either end and you put a crossover like that in - then it IS a reverse loop. Or the classic oval with a diagonal connection across the middle - classic reverse section. Both common ways to lay the track in 3 rail as well,. except in 3 rail there is no reverse loop problem.
The Kato power routing won;t really affect how you would wire the reverse section. Which part should be the reverse section depends on which design it is - the dog bone shape with two parallel tracks and a crossover between them, or a wider oval with a long diagonal connection.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
As always, a track diagram would be helpful.
Rich
Alton Junction
OP states that the only place that two loops come together is at the turnouts. If this is true then a reversing section is not in play.
floridaflyer OP states that the only place that two loops come together is at the turnouts. If this is true then a reversing section is not in play.
In the pic'....if You put a crossover at ''D'' You will create a reversing section:
Take Care!
Frank