I was wondering how many o22 switches you can put on A KW s 14 volt post before it’s circuit breaker goes off anybody have an answer
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Hi Finbar.
An original KW has an 8 amp Circuit breaker. Each incandescent switch bulb draws 0.2 amps and each incandescent controller bulb draws 0.2 amps for a total of 0.4 amps per switch.
8 / 0.4 = 20
Here is the old instruction manual for your reference.
https://ogrforum.com/...ruction%20Manual.pdf
Attachments
Images (1)
A few less if you use that constant to power the turnout coils too (vs track) but you usually only use one switch at a time.
However antiderailing may activate on more than one at a time 🤔
I'm not sure on 022 turnouts motor's normal amp draw. Maybe 2a ?
I run 20 assorted lamps, two turnouts and any train I want with my KW. I'd guess that 8a is for a cool duty cycle. I don't think I hit a 10a draw, but I know I peak over 8a a lot and heat isn't an issue for mine(nor breaker, it's new this century). (the Z next to it runs hotter with less draw) I think I draw 7a-7.5a with a passenger Hudson or GG, peaks would be another 2a-2.5a for a split second or two under start or fast throttle change.
You could increase the number by switching to LED lamps.
finbar posted:...how many o22 switches you can put on A KW s 14 volt post...
Well, that's just one post... and you need two. What connections are you using to power the switches & track?
If you are using "U" as common, there is no 14 volt fixed post. To get 14 volts, You would need to use C or D as common.
Change your bulbs from 18 to 24 watts it will cut down the amps. Or if you want to spend the money you can get LED's
