I'm starting to build a permanent layout with Lionel FasTrack, and my track plan features a crossover with two manual O36 switches, allowing trains to cross from one track to the other on double track. Both tracks will be powered independently with their own transformers, so I'll have to isolate the crossover. I've used FasTrack block sections before and I've had very good luck with them. I'm also aware of the bigger FasTrack switches featuring the short 1 3/8" block sections that I could use between these switches, but I don't want to use one of them here to keep the tracks spaced closer together. My plan is to remove the center pin on each switch and that should do the trick, but I'm wondering if there's enough spacing there to actually isolate the track. Do I need to cut the rails slightly, or is there a way to plug the rails? Or should I do both?
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I just remove the pin or actually cut it off with a Dremel tool. Then I grind it down a bit to leave a small gap ensuring no electric contact.
Train nut
Where on the switch did you remove the pin? where the switch joins the new loop? or at the beginning of the switch? I have a three track layout with switches spaced as DM&E Bobby does. each loop is independently powered. I am experiencing issues with that and as one friend has explained to me, I have to isolate the switches.
Thank you !!!
First, if both transformers are phased correctly and both loops are being operated at the same voltage, you would not necessarily need to isolate the switches. If the loops are being operated at different voltages, such as conventionally on one loop and command on the other, then yes.
Assuming these are crossovers, I would use the 1 3/8" piece between the divergent end of each switch where they meet, in order to isolate. If that is not workable or practical, then remove the center pin from the divergent end of each switch where they meet. That should prevent power from being transmitted from one loop to the other.
Generally, removing the pins should create enough of a gap so there is no contact between the rail ends. You can cover the ends with a non-conductive material like tape or you could fill the gap by taking the plastic tab on a loaf of bread or some flat styrene and cutting it down to size and inserting it between the ends.