So,
As I convert some of my O gauge to DCC with ESU like so many others, id like to reuse the smoke units..... but the LokSound L decoder can only handle so many Amps through that circuit. Building a relay circuit removes alot of the features the decoder has to offer. I contacted ESU a few times and ESU wouldn't give me the technical specs on the Heating resistor OR Thermistor (Temp Sensor). So I bought a ESU (54678) Smoke Unit to cut it open to see what they used for components. A small cost for much savings in the future...
Prior to disassembly testing:
- Smoke volume was not the greatest compared to a standard O gauge Smoke unit. Not enough airflow in.
- Smoke output would be good for a Diesel exhaust. Not a steam engine.
- Fan motor was very noisy, the armature rattled in the can, it was a very unbalanced motor. I tried everything to fix it.
Findings after disassembly:
- NO wicking inside. Basically a bowl with a small wick pulling fluid up. As soon as the unit tilts fluid everywhere.
NO serviceability. Sealed shut. They say its good forever but we all know that's never the case.
Technical Findings:
- 1 Watt 22 Ohm wire-wound Resistor in the Operating Temperature (-40°C ~ 200°C)---used for the Heating Element
- 100k NTC Glass Bead Thermistor---used for the Temperature Sensor
-These parts are cheap and easy to find after a search on the internet.
