That is correct, so the issue comes into play , what happens if we have 2 engines going into the loop at the same time? I know that may be slim that they hit the same spot , but if we are using cars with metal wheel sets this becomes possible, if the trains enter and exit the loop at the same times would we not have a short? and if so how do we handle that sort of situation. all the diagram's for reverse loops show only one way into a reverse loop and the gaps are cut on the turnout going in, so the chances of 2 trains shorting cannot happen cause they would collide at the switch, so one has to wait, but when we have multiple ways into a reverse loop how do we control this situation?
If the loop in question is connected to two continuous mainline loops then the loop in question would be a reversing loop and would have to be gaped on both rails on the divergent tracks coming off both mainlines. (I think)
Ward,
Something here does not make sense, at least to me. If what you are saying is the 2 mains shown are connected at both ends to form a continuous loop, you have something marked or wired wrong.
On every continuous loop, the outside rail at any point will be the same polarity and the inside rail will be the opposite polarity. In other words, if the outside rail of a continuous loop is set / wired to positive polarity, everywhere on the outside rail must be positive or a direct short will result.
Looking at your diagram, if we close both ends of the loop, a direct short would occur. The top rail shown on the upper main should be the same as the bottom rail of the lower main.
Jim
Are there any crossovers on the double-track main line leading out of this area?
I agree with all the others - nothing in this diagram is a reverse loop, but if there's a crossover to the right of the diagram, then there could be.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
the lines marked with polarity are a double track continuous main line loop and that the polarity for that is correct, I guess the issues comes into play on the actual loop.
floridaflyer it appears that the + and - are mixed up on the two tracks coming in and leaving the track in question.
it appears that the + and - are mixed up on the two tracks coming in and leaving the track in question.
Either that or, somewhere else down the line, the OP felt the need to wire those two tracks the way that he did. That's why we need to see a more complete track diagram.
Rich
Alton Junction
Hi Guys,
Thanks for all the repsonses, Im going to get a better image that shows it a little better, those entry points are coming up and down from the helix. let me see if i can get a better image and post that , so it makes better sense.
Soo Line fan Looks like the polarity on one of his mains needs to be changed but I would like to see the rest of the layout.
Looks like the polarity on one of his mains needs to be changed but I would like to see the rest of the layout.
Yeah, I would like to see where those two tracks with the arrows on each end are coming and going.
Agree rich. assuming that his entrance tracks do not have another reverse loop somewhere beyond the diagram, it appears that the + and - are mixed up on the two tracks coming in and leaving the track in question.
Ward, perhaps I am not viewing your drawing correctly, but there does not appear to be any reverse loops in what you have drawn.
Where do you feel that there is a reverse loop?
It must have not loaded the first time, hopefully you see it now?
Where's the picture?
Hello Railroaders,
Hope everyone is well. I have a reverse loop we are working on coming out of a helix and Im not sure where to put the gaps and how many reverse loop units I will need, its not a simple in and out loop, I have drawn a picture, im hoping some of you guys with that knowledge can help me out, I truly appreciate any input you all have.
Thank You!!!
Ward