Testing Lionel Electrocouplers

Lionel couplers are made for track voltage- 18V AC. momentary contact only- no more than a blip.

I would test with 16-18 V, just to get an idea if they can fire at lower voltage- kinda gives you an idea of how easily they fire.

I don't know about the newest Lionel electrocouplers, but the ones from 10-15 years ago used to require 16 to 18 volts AC to fire.  Atlas and Weaver electrocouplers would work with 12 volts, but not Lionel.

Can DC be used to fire them or only AC?

AC only. I tried a Lionel EC and got it to open at about 5-6vac.

@Bob posted:

I don't know about the newest Lionel electrocouplers, but the ones from 10-15 years ago used to require 16 to 18 volts AC to fire.  Atlas and Weaver electrocouplers would work with 12 volts, but not Lionel.

The LTI electrocouplers use a very stiff spring on the plunger.  Replacing that spring with the postwar TC-112 will allow it to open at about 12 volts.  There were some complaints that voltage drop through the track, loco and electronics may not fire the coupler.

@RSJB18 posted:

AC only. I tried a Lionel EC and got it to open at about 5-6vac.

I see very few Lionel couplers that will open on 6 VAC, usually you'll get some that open at 12 VAC, and others won't.

@gunrunnerjohn posted:

I see very few Lionel couplers that will open on 6 VAC, usually you'll get some that open at 12 VAC, and others won't.

Agreed. The OP asked for the minimum so....

The one I tested is brand new too.

@RSJB18 posted:

Agreed. The OP asked for the minimum so....

The one I tested is brand new too.

Well, that's also a sample of one.   I just took two of the standard 2" length Lionel couplers out of the bag, never been touched.  Neither would open at 6V, they very faintly buzzed, that's all.  They did both open at 12V, but they were much more "snappy" at 16V.