Signal Bridge Options

Option 3 - MTH signal bridge with zsuff sensors.  The MTH sensors have a real problem with their infrared.  Don't buy them.  1st hand experience.

The signals will change to diagonal and then vertical after the train goes by.  The video does not show that.

Ron

I'll second what Ron said. Specifically you'll need 1 Z Stuff dz 1075 detector for each signal head.

The mth signal bridge comes with 2 signal heads but 2 more can be added for by- directional running if you choose.

What exactly is your 4&1/2" track spacing?  Center rail to center rail? Outside rail  to outside rail etc?

My track spacing is 6" center rail to center rail and the overhead signals line up well. 

Thanks for the input on option 3, u hadn't considered that.  My track spacing is 4 1/4" center rail to center rail.  I'm concerned the MTH bridge is too wide.  Do you have the width dimensions?  

While the 30-11030 wiring instructions only refer to an ITAD or TAD, you can also use a relay using the insulated-outer-rail method.  Albeit if you already have a meticulously ballasted track bed it can be a bother to rip it up to modify the rails.  An optical occupancy detector whether MTH, Lionel, Z-stuff runs $30+.  The insulated-rail relay method is, say, half that.  Pros and cons with either approach.  For example, if you do an Advanced Search on OGR there have been discussions of false triggering from trains on the far parallel track using the ITAD method.

MTH 30-11030 dimensions

I think your fine. Center to center spacing between each pair of signal head outlets is 4&1/2".

Your closer track spacing is more prototypical than my fastrack.

Here's a photo I snapped with extra track layer over at your 4&1/2" spacing:

Thanks for the replies.  Ricko your photo is especially helpful, thanks for sharing.  BTW, what Z-Stuff sensor model are you guys using?  I noticed several options on their website.  

Dz 1075