Hi everyone,
I recently installed a new DCC friendly Shinohara double crossover, but am having problems with engines stalling as they pass through thr crossover. The biggest problem one is my switcher and I suspect it's because of the short wheel base. However, I also have a Hex Frog Juicer and want to know if I can use it to power the frogs and if it will help eliminate the stalls. I noticed that on the bottom of the double crossover, there are several metsl points that are connecting rails. Is there a specific point I would solder to from the juicer?
I am also having the same problem on a few of my turnouts. They are Atlas Snaptrack pieces that have been removed from the plastic bases. They have the plastic frog. Where do I power the frog on the turnout with the juicer?
Thanks.
Jim
Hard to power a plastic frog snap switch. The snaptrack has a different geometry than the other Atlas turnouts, so replacement is not an easy solution for that.
The diagram 1/2 way down the page http://wiringfordcc.com/switches.htm#how2wire
may help with your double crossover. A keep alive might be your best solution. However the experts will be along shortly, to opine so don't give up hope based on my beginner knowledge.
Henry
COB Potomac & Northern
Shenandoah Valley
Are you throwing all four switches at the same time? Thats how I use my double crossovers and it work pretty good. One problem I have had, and still do, is the point rails don't make good contact with stock rails. This causes engines to stall in the crossover. Haven't found a good solution yet.
A warning. I tried to 'fix' a double crossover by following the diagram and instructions on a web site, and trashed a perfically good double crossover. Proceed with caution.
SouthPenn Are you throwing all four switches at the same time? Thats how I use my double crossovers and it work pretty good. One problem I have had, and still do, is the point rails don't make good contact with stock rails. This causes engines to stall in the crossover. Haven't found a good solution yet. A warning. I tried to 'fix' a double crossover by following the diagram and instructions on a web site, and trashed a perfically good double crossover. Proceed with caution.
There are small brass contacts attached to the point rails. I wasn't very careful masking the points and stock rails when I painted mine. After a LOT of work, I was able to clean both, now I have NO problems, even with my SW switching locomotives. Pretty much any locomotive that doesn't have all wheel electrical pickup from the wheels will stall on long turnouts.
Marlon
See pictures of the Clinton-Golden Valley RR