Skip to main content

3 replies

Conventional 2-rail DC block and switch wiring question

Tom BurkeTom BurkeOGR Forum Member

I model on O-Scale 2-rail with conventional cab control.  I did some searching but couldn't find exactly what I am looking for.

Can anyone provide a link that shows how to insulate between blocks and also how to wire and insulate hand built turnouts?

I don't want anything fancy and I won't be running two engines on a loop.  I have done this before using a panel board and 3-way switches for direction and off (for yards).

I believe that when an engine transfers from one block to the next, both power supplies need to be set at about the same voltage but need the proper +/- polarity.  Also, I believe I can not have one common return with my proposed setup.

If I were to bite the bullet I believe I would go to RC control with batteries held in a trailing boxcar, but not only would that be expensive but also limiting by dragging around the power supply with each engine.  Most all of my engines are re-motored or scratch built.  I also build my own Diesel and Steam circuitry.  My engines are full.

Thanks....

Original Post

Replies sorted oldest to newest

Engineer-JoeEngineer-JoeOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBER

http://tonystrains.com/how-to-...a-long-reverse-loop/

I can't find the old link I'm thinking of. A hand built turnout needs to have the rails cut to provide electrical insulation at the frog. There was a post a long while back where guys actually told me where to cut my Old Pullman switches to use on a command layout. The cuts would do what you need for a reverse section including those switches. I'll try and search more...

P prrjimOGR Forum Member

I don't have a link  but I have some advice.      

Don't put a rheostat on each block.    Wire each block through the center contacts of a double pole/double throw center off switch.   Then wire 2 separate controllers to the opposite side contacts on each switch.   That way you can control any block with either controller, and you could turn any block off.

As for track switches, just don't let the opposite rails make contact.    Generally you insulate the frog from the running rails of the diverging track.    That should keep you straight.  

 

Add Reply

Views: 206
Post

Membership Required

We're sorry. You must be signed in to continue. Sign In or Register
×
Are you sure you want to remove from your Block List?
×
Loading...
×
When you block a person, they can no longer invite you to a private message or post to your profile wall. Replies and comments they make will be collapsed/hidden by default. Finally, you'll never receive email notifications about content they create or likes they designate for your content.
Note: if you proceed, you will no longer be following .
×
Link copied to your clipboard.
×

Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership

OGR Forum Supporting Membership

Help support this forum with an OGR Forum Supporting Membership.
You will be able to watch the videos in the INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEO FORUM!
A one-year OGR Forum Supporting Membership is only $12 per year, so sign up now!


    OR     


Access the ALL the OGR VIDEO FORUMS AND  over 300 back issues of OGR
with a DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION!



$12.00 per 12 Months (plus tax if applicable)
×