Bad Track Spot for Legacy Engines - Why?

Have you tried a ground plane there? The tracks appear to be directly on top of each other until the lower track diverges, that's the trouble spot. That divergence may be just enough to confuse the signal.

That sure sounds like the classic ground plane scenario.  There are a couple previous threads that cover this in detail.   Search 'ground plane' and the remedy is discussed.  It is an easy 1 wire fix.  And fortunately, you haven't covered up the area where the wire will go.

Ground plane issue

I'd be running a ground wire below the top track along that stretch, that would probably cure the issue.

Well Alex....looks like you are going to be "grounded!"

 

Alan

After reading your posts here, and several other threads regarding ‘ground plane’, my problem is unquestionably a ‘ground plane’ issue.

 

The only thread on this subject I had read previously was started by Dale M. where he questioned the use of the term ‘ground plane’ to describe the issue. I agree with Dale, BTW.

 

Even though there have been a number of different approaches used to resolve the problem, such as foil between the track levels, changes to the antenna or handrails, etc., it believe I will try what John suggested; i.e., “running a ground wire below the top track along that stretch. . .”

 

Note: Before I do that, however, I need to let you know that under the bench in that stretch of the layout is where I have the greatest number of wires running through. That stretch is what ties one portion (about 1/5) of the layout, AND the control panel, to the rest of the layout. Among these are the power wires (12AWG) from the two Z4K’s to the two TIU’s, plus all sorts of AC and DC power. But no 115VAC, which would include a ground wire.

 

Hence, should I run a ground wire under the upper level track and also under the lower level, together with all the other wires that already are there? (I would connect this ground wire, or wires, to ground on one of the outlets on the wall.)

 

Thank you so much!

 

Alex

I would just try taping a wire to the back side of the bridge girder on the second level.  The wire will work best above the lower track since the antennas are at the top of the lower locomotives.

 

Hopefully, this will also help the upper locomotives.

 

See http://www.trainfacts.com/trainfacts/?p=317 for more info on ground planes.

Yes, you want an earth ground for the wire, the third prong of a properly wired outlet is a good source of the earth ground.

Did Dale really say ground plane, next you know Rich will say Lash-Up

Washing my mouth out with soap.....

I did as you guys suggested and so far it has been running fine. I have run the train slowly forward and reverse over that stretch and is has run fine. Ran it at crusing speed three times, and OK as well.

 

I ran the ground wire (I ran out of green so had to use yellow) under the upper level for a distance of about six feet, which included the problem stretch. Here is how I did it (in case it may help someone?):

< Click on image to enlarge >

 

 

Thank you for your help!

 

Alex

FWIW, I would not connect inside the box, but rather just buy a three prong plug from any store that sells electrical supplies.

 

I know it's the same connection...

I'm with you gunrunner...

I agree to a certain extent, John. If the person is not familiar with house wiring, breaker location and assigments, I would recommend not to go inside the outlet.

 

I have several straight and right-angle 3-prong plugs that I use (well, used to) to make heavy duty extension cords, which I thought about using, but did not want to tie up up half of the outlet just for that. But more importantly, I prefer not to use a 115/125VAC plug (or socket) for any application other than for what it was designed, intended and listed.

 

Anyway, I am glad I can run the Legacy engines!

 

 

Alex

I usually mention stuff like this for other readers that may fit that description and might be better served by doing as I described.  Clearly, done properly and with care, what you did works fine, I also agree with that.

One point I will make here is if you ever had a fire and it was suspected that it was electrical in origin, that kind of non-standard wiring could lead to problems with insurance company inspectors.

The middle screw that holds on the cover plate is also connected to the ground. A ring connector on the wire will sit under the screw and not obstruct the plugs or get the inspectors exited.

Ron

RailfanRon- that is the way to go.  I have a file somewhere about this issue and I'm going to write that down and put it in there.  Excellent tip.  And I may never need it, I personally don't have Legacy, but just in case...