============ It is nice to be able to cut power to a single point on your layout. An insulated block is an easy way to do just that. The insulated section should be about three track sections (36 in) long. Use plastic rail joiners to isolate just one side of the track. Wire a switch to pick up track power outside of the block and direct it into the block to provide power to the track and the Green light, or to only power the Red light and stop the train. The middle post of the Signal is the 'common' post and is connected to the opposite rail.
Thursday, May 1, 2008
Easy Stop and Go
============ It is nice to be able to cut power to a single point on your layout. An insulated block is an easy way to do just that. The insulated section should be about three track sections (36 in) long. Use plastic rail joiners to isolate just one side of the track. Wire a switch to pick up track power outside of the block and direct it into the block to provide power to the track and the Green light, or to only power the Red light and stop the train. The middle post of the Signal is the 'common' post and is connected to the opposite rail.
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4 comments:
i like the idea . am doing something similar, but am putting toggle switches in the control box.have got mrself a little confused . afraid of a short circuit and some real damage. this system is to be used for sidings and team track. HELP!
I have thought about putting a small toggle switch panel inside a building close to the track sidings. Ether an inside lift off the roof or mount the switch through the building under an eave. Power could be picked up from the main line track to supply the switch and onto the siding.
Pine State’s concerns should be diminished by the fact that the power supply (Crest Craft) like he has, is ether fuse of breaker protected. And if you only switch one rail it is easy to follow the circuit to know you have not crossed wires or rails. And if you do it this way you will not have the problem of ever having the wrong polarity or reversed polarity for your equipment to cross into.
With a Double poll switch one could even turn off one section of the main line while the siding is powered.
Mr. Deere
I made a little 'single shack' out of a craft store item that only cost a dollar or so. I drilled a couple holes and inserted radio Shack 12v red green bulbs. Covered with a small bucket for protection from the weather. I buried an regular electrical box with outdoor switch plate. It work good. The Lionel signal would probably rust, but is easily disconnected. Got mine on ebay, avg about $20, including shipping.
I like Ed's comments. Very good advice.
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