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Below is a youtube link of a short video clip to show anyone interested or nervous about powering CONVENTIONAL Lionel three rail with DC power. Shown running is conventional powered Berkshire from an older generation Polar Express set. Electronic reverse still works as it should and no problems with non derailing switches either. Only downside is any sound in loco or tender will be on all the time. I just used an Older tender without sound for now. I haven't figured out how to get the sound back while running DC but I will!! My reason for using DC is wanting prototypical speed control without going to command control. I do not have the money for command control at this time. Nevermind me needing both MFGS setups to run all their locomotives.  Dead rail radio control is on the horizon for me! 

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gzp2s5v4pWQ

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A theory how to get the sounds to work that you may think about.

A regular AC transformer set to say 6 volts, wired to the center rail through a momentary SPST push button switch. A SPST relay in the render with a 6 volt AC coil is wired to the rollers and chassis. The relay contacts are wired to the rollers and sound board power input. Push the button at the transformer to add AC to the track, energizing the relay, which in turn energizes the board. We are doing the same thing to energize the board as usual, only using an AC signal instead of a DC signal.

 

Larry

Originally Posted by TrainLarry:

A theory how to get the sounds to work that you may think about.

A regular AC transformer set to say 6 volts, wired to the center rail through a momentary SPST push button switch. A SPST relay in the render with a 6 volt AC coil is wired to the rollers and chassis. The relay contacts are wired to the rollers and sound board power input. Push the button at the transformer to add AC to the track, energizing the relay, which in turn energizes the board. We are doing the same thing to energize the board as usual, only using an AC signal instead of a DC signal.

 

Larry

Thank you for this!This is exactly what I am looking for. I will source the parts and report back.

 

 

Dominic

Last edited by Toomanyhobbies

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