Lionel LCS IRV2 - How is it working out for you?

@Keith L posted:

I’m just figuring out my IRV2. I think it’s going to be very cool.

How is it working out for you?

I have two IRV2s and all four of the "sleds" are installed.  Plus, I have the Fastrack unit, installed.

Mine is a relatively small layout (130 sqft) but the IRV2s make every train's journey a bit more fun.

So, yes, pretty cool but the coolness depends on your (broad meaning) use of the system.  Good luck & have fun!  

I should add that I use ATLAS track ... the one multi-track Fastrack IRV I have is located in an area of track not very visible yet it's accessible (plus the track is "scenicked").  The sleds fit nicely into the Atlas track.

Big thumbs up!  Have 4 in place on GarGraves 072 curves with no issues.  Much better than then FasTrak versions in my opinion.

I just received my IRV2 order. 

Question regarding placement of sensor strip on Gargraves wood tie track ... specifically O-54 curve that my layout has.  Two photos attached ... one with sensor strip placed inside of center rail and one with sensor strip placed outside of center rail.  In both locations, the sensor strip is snugged up against and touching the center rail.  Not screwed in yet ... just positioned for photo taking.

Knowing that Legacy IR sensors are centered between the two sides (belly of tender for steamers; belly of diesel for diesels) on axial centerline halfway between front/rear trucks, here are two questions. 

Question 1:  Any preference to positioning sensor strip inside or outside of center rail?    Seems like inside of center rail is optimal since centerline of locomotive bottom where IR sensor is located would make a chord across the O-54 curved track such that the sensor would be inside the center rail centerline.  See 3rd attached image of exaggerated chord across track circle.  Your thoughts?

Question 2:  Any issue with snugging the IR sensor up against center rail?  Page 12 instructions for IR Sensor installation, Step 5 says "Position the Sled and Cover assembly as close to the center rail of the track as possible to allow for clearance of wheel flanges."  The directions don't say to maintain a small gap between the 'hot' center rail and the side of the sensor sled.  The sensor cover appears to be some phenolic material that would be electrically non-conductive so I don't believe there is risk of shorting the 'hot' center rail through the sensor sled/electronics.  Your thoughts? 

Other thoughts on sensor strip placement?

Tom

If the sensor is between the trucks (in the fuel tank, say), then inside seems the better bet.  

Brendan

@S-Runner posted:

Mine are working great.  Very robust!

Suggest you have them up against the center rail (either side).  I'm using Gargraves 072 curves with no problem.  I'm pretty sure 054 should be no problem.  Not sure if 031 curve will be okay but someone should try.  We're talking about a whole different flexibility to be even considering putting these on curves.  Well done Lionel!

@LionelAG posted:

Well done Lionel!

Well... maybe not.  The IRV2 has been cancelled along with the add-on sleds.  So unless you have your full allotment, you're out of luck!