hello fellow 2 rail scalers - I am typically a lionel 3R legacy guy, but am planning to add a 2R loop or more to my current 3R layout. What are the basics in terms of what remote system/power/track I should buy to run 2R trains. I am looking for something that is most comparable in terms of ease to a lionel legacy remote system. Thanks in advance for your help!
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TMCC (Sunset), MTH DCS/DCC (maybe you might use MTH 2R?) to , or a DCC system are all possible really.
Consider a DC power unit or a toggle and bridge rectifier on a Lionel for DC power and polarity change for "conventional 2r dc" running and testing as well.
Just like 3r only the electrical pick up is different, and you need to watch out for crossed polarities at junctions / crossings/ etc., especially if you use certain track designs like reverse loops. A simple loop; dead simple and straight forward. Parallel sidings easy, except for magbe electro- frogging things; only minor pita really; it comes with the territory.
I run MTH DCS in 2 rail using AC power. You could run Lionel's Legacy or TMCC as well. It is used in S scale (2 rail) after all. I have older Atlas stuff with TMCC inside. You already have the control system so all you'd need is to jump the signal wire to the 2 rail. Lionel doesn't sell any 2 rail O anymore so everything would be a custom install or search for older stuff.
Because you are starting from scratch, your choice is wide open. You could also run battery RC and not even power the rails! You might wish to look at what RTR 2 rail engines appeal to you first?
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