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I have several new Williams by Bachmann NW-2 switchers that I will be modifying. The modifications include a change out of the Bachmann lighting and installing LEDs for headlights, markers and cab lighting.  Since these are switchers intended mainly for yard work I will be adding diode strings in series with each motor to reduce top end speed and to permit installation of  directional lighting systems.  I will tap off the diode strings for directional lighting. A zener will be used to provide constant intensity lighting. This will allow also the headlights and markers to be lighted while the engine is stationary but powered. I will also install a battery with zener diode network to allow the headlight and cab lighting to be on (dimmed) when there is absolutely no power on the track. The battery system will also have a concealed switch to turn off the battery system when the engine is idle on the track or while in storage.

 

I will be using high current diodes (10 amps) and 5 volt zeners. A circuit diagram for this mod will be coming.

 

Note: The directonal lighting will cause one headlight to be bright while the other headlight will be dimmed.

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Another way to get directional lighting with a Williams E unit is to tap off the drive to the relay coils and use logic gates to turn the various lights on and off in all three modes (forward, neutral, reverse). Current inrush limiters (NTC thermistors) will give slow startup speeds without affecting top speed. 10 amps seems like overkill. A Williams FM Trainmaster pulling 32 cars draws less than 2 amps on level track. Stall current of a Mabuchi RS-385PH is 2.35 amps.

 

Pete

I will also be reworking the cab area so that the cab will include a sitting engineer and simulated cab controls.  Also all LEDs for lighting will be hidden from view. Separate LEDs will be used for headlights, markers and cab interor lighting.

 

As noted my system will have alternate front/rear headlight control. When in neutral both headlights will be dimmed. When set to forward or reverse the headlights will change accordingly. (one bright and one dimmed)

 

Photos of the mods will be coming soon.

 

Note: I purchased a large quantity of 10 amp diodes on Ebay.  The cost per diode was less than I could find for 6 amp diodes. 

 

Note: I will also use the 10 amp diodes for my track occupancy detection circuits.

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