Track Wiring

EastonOOGR Forum Member SUPPORTING MEMBER

Ok. I have Barry's book with update. I read it and follow this forum to learn and grow as electronics are NOT my strong point.

I have a space about 12' by 16' wired for DCS. I get all 10's regardless of where everything is at or how many engines I'm running.

Everywhere I go, look, read, etc, DCS talks about making sure you have at least 1 insulated rail joiner. I do not have this. Should I add this in? Leave it alone? Am I going to have problems in the future?

I know folks say don't fix it if it isn't broken, but it's electrical and I want to make sure I do this right.

Thanks everyone, Terry

1/31/149:37 AM

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MdMikeyOGR Forum Member

If you're getting 10's everywhere, it ain't broke, so don't fix it. You obviously did it right when you wired it up. Enjoy your trains.

1/31/1410:50 AM

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RJROGR Forum Member

Mikey is absolutely correct.

It is true that there should be one hot (center rail) feed per block, but failure to abide by this guide may or may not affect a particular layout.

Don't look for trouble. It can find you on its own.

1/31/1411:04 AM

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Tom TeeOGR Forum Member

In a DCS circle you do not want an un broken rail. You do not want a 360 degree loop of power.

Personally I isolate each and every power feed segment and directly feed it via a toggle switch for short detection, hour meters & stored conventional locos.

1/31/1411:40 AM

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RJROGR Forum Member

I agree with you on wiring, Tom, and especially on the need for toggled blocks. That's the route I took. But if his layout works as is, I wouldn't risk messing it up.

1/31/1411:46 AM

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