I have coil couplers that need 18v and some that can use 12v. Where do I find more 12v ones?
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You could add a resistor in series with the coil to reduce the voltage going to the coil. The voltage does not have to be exactly 12v, 15v would be save for this short intermittent usage. Adding a resistor will be easier, quicker and way cheaper than replacing the coils with 12 v one.
You may have to try several different sizes of resistors and check the voltage to pick a suitable size.
Charlie
@Choo Choo Charlie posted:You could add a resistor in series with the coil to reduce the voltage going to the coil. The voltage does not have to be exactly 12v, 15v would be save for this short intermittent usage. Adding a resistor will be easier, quicker and way cheaper than replacing the coils with 12 v one.
You may have to try several different sizes of resistors and check the voltage to pick a suitable size.
Charlie
I am actually looking to go the other way. My trains run on a 12v system. Looking to use coil couplers without needing a boost circuit.
I've found that, in general, Lionel coil couplers need 18 volts or close to it while Atlas coil couplers operate reliably at less voltage. I haven't actually tested to see what percentage of Atlas couplers operate at 12 volts though. I run my layout at 16 volts.
What electronics are driving the couplers? Are you running TMCC?
@gunrunnerjohn posted:What electronics are driving the couplers? Are you running TMCC?
I am running with battery RC controlled 12.5dc. I do not use TMCC.
Consider MTH PS2/3 coil couplers. They require more current but they'll work reliably at lower voltages.
