I have a mid-sized 8x12 layout that can only realistically run one train at a time so I want to increase my engine capacity such that my grandsons can each run an engine simultaneously. I don’t have room on my current layout for another loop so my only option is to go vertical and add a second level track. Due to the size of the layout it doesn’t really make sense to have an incline to allow a train to climb to the second level, I’ve decided to make the upper level independent of the one below; the only way for one train to go from one level of track to the other would be to physically move it by hand. I’ve decided to make the upper level a double track so I can run two trains above and one below.
I have a Legacy set up currently so my questions involve how to wire the new level. Since I’m essentially running three separate layouts electrically, my initial thought was to buy two more transformers and wire each of the new tracks independently. So how do I integrate my legacy base into the new layouts? Is it as simple as adding a wire from each new layouts outside rail to the binding post of the command base? Will that allow me to control three trains at once, each on a separate track? Or do you phase the two new transformers together with my existing transformer and run feeder wires to the three separate tracks like they are one big layout and then run a single outside rail wire to the binding post?
If the three track loops had their negatives tied together at the binding post of the command post then they are now electrically connected (at least partially) so I would think that the latter scenario would be needed (or maybe you can’t do what I’m proposing). Any guidance is greatly appreciated.
michael
