Is the DZ-2500 worth it?

I think the DZ-2500 can work flawlessly, but errors in programming and data driver requirements can interfere.

I think the DZ-1000s are simpler and the Lionel tmcc accessories for switch control can control them easily...so I guess if there is some additional feature with one or the other, then go with that.

Thanks cjack. That was helpful. Do you know of any instructional videos on the wiring process?

j

I've used both the 2500's and the 1000's.  i prefer the 1000. i also use the legacy 990 and i use lionel sc2 for switch control. (my caps key is broken, sorry) one thing to note is that the 2500 is designed to move slowly to more closely mirror how a real railroad switch moves . the 1000 is fast and has a swift snap! when it operates. the 2500 is turtle slow comparatively.

   it's been my experience that  the 2500 will work as advertised as long as it it wired up properly. again, i prefer the 1000 and it's not close. i would want the 1000 even if someone else is paying for it! i also see no reason to change out your existing atlas switches to stay consistent. if you find the ross more visually appealing then i'd say yes. to me, this is a matter of personal choice.  now, i will say that the ross switches are notorious for very high customer satisfaction. i use them on my layout and they operate flawlessly. ross has switches figured out!

    again, i'm sorry about my caps key. good luck to you!

JohnJr,

Just happened to see your post.

Here is wiring instructions for DZ-1000 to compare:

http://www.z-stuff.net/instruc...02%20w-nonderail.pdf

Also, Dr Z is the man! He knows everything.

585-377-0925

Could not find any videos, ask Dr Z about manual control too.

Mark

Amos and Mark,

Thanks for both your inputs, very helpful. Will be calling Dr. Z tomorrow.

Thanks.

john

If you have the DZ1000 switch machines you can add the TMCC control with the Lionel SC-2 controller.  This is dual control both the DZ 1001 push buttons and The SC-2 controller.  As noted the DZ2500 require a data bus wiring and the driver that attaches to the TMCC command base.

SC-2 installed along with the push buttons. Of the (7) switches wired, there are (4) sets of cross overs.  (6) Switches, including the (4) cross over sets, are controlled by the SC-2, (the maximum number of switches an SC-2 can be wired for.)

This video shows the switching is being done with the Handheld Cab1 remote, and SC-2 controller.  There is automatic non-derail feature added.  Click on the triangle to access the video.

There are other consideration/differences between the two switches. The DZ 2500's are slow moving. DZ1000's are a snap-action switch.

I couldn't find an install video either. The Z stuff wiring diagrams are available from their website although you have to poke around a bit on the site. And study them. As mentioned, the Lionel switch controllers are easier to understand the wiring and will control the 1000s. As far as the prototypical switch action, that can help or hurt if you want to switch at the last second.

I used DZ-2500 switch machines on my first layout and used a CAB1 to control them.  It takes a little more time to set up the DZ-2500 switch machine to get it to work properly, but once it was working I had no problem.  I’m installing Ross switches with DZ-2500s on my current layout.

I like that the DZ-2500 is easier to wire for command control.  Using DZ-1000s and SC-2 controllers require running wires from the controller to each switch.  With the DZ-2500, all you need to do is run a three wire bus around the layout, two for power and one for the TMCC signal.*  Below is the schematic I refer to when wiring my single switches.  I do not use the DZ-1008 relay on my #4 or #5 (regular) switches, but found I need it on my other switches, especially the curved ones, to prevent stalling.

*(don’t you hate asterisks) To help troubleshoot a specific DZ-2500 failure, I insert an on/off switch every 6-10 switch machines.  I’ve yet to experience this failure.

I think the DZ 2500s are great.  Wiring is simple and eliminating the SC2 saves money.   I bench test mine first because I have gotten some bad ones right out of the package, but once I test to confirm they work I have had very few problems with them.  

I only operate mine with my CAB2, but you can install the enclosed push button on a control panel to make the operation of the turn out more user friendly for little ones.  I know that is not "manual" but it would give the kids something to interact with if using the remote is too complicated.

Just as an FYI for all if you have a DZ-2500 that gets jammed up.

the cure is to back off both mounting switch screws and back it off slightly then re-tighten screws see if jamming is cured.

you do know that the push button controller can be wired in as well as using the DZ-2001A data driver.

it shows in the instructions how to do it they can be used for children to work the switches at an easy reach for them.

now as to manual switch control if these switches for children are all reachable I would highly recommend caboose industries ground throws simply put they work.

I have a love/hate relation with my DZ2500.  I bought early when they first came out and due to software issues they have slowly been failing.  As they do I send them to Dennis at Zstuff and he replaces them for me.  That's replace and not repair.  The newer ones have been working perfectly so far.