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Post by JKP on Jun 20, 2022 21:57:52 GMT
Recently I connected my inner and outer loops, I was going to keep them separate but decided to connect them, I can cut power between them and run them separate.  |
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Post by atsda on Jun 21, 2022 2:09:01 GMT
What buildings do you have in mind? Are you planning to scratch build or go via kit?
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Post by atsda on Jun 21, 2022 2:11:29 GMT
Recently I connected my inner and outer loops, I was going to keep them separate but decided to connect them, I can cut power between them and run them separate.
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Post by atsda on Jun 21, 2022 2:22:37 GMT
I have inter-connected "loops" and want to separate them. Do you need one insulating pin to separate track on one side and one insulating pin on another area and then span each with a single toggle - or do you use two insulating pins on each of the two tracks? to separate ehe loops in two positions and span the rails with a toggle switch
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Post by JKP on Jun 21, 2022 19:58:04 GMT
I have inter-connected "loops" and want to separate them. Do you need one insulating pin to separate track on one side and one insulating pin on another area and then span each with a single toggle - or do you use two insulating pins on each of the two tracks? to separate ehe loops in two positions and span the rails with a toggle switch Fastrack makes it simple, I use these to Isolate tracks and then a simple on/off toggle switch. Just remove the connector wire and run 2 separate wires to toggle switch. 
I have 3 sidings that I use these to turn power on and off. There is also a 5" track section that can be used to do the same thing. _
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Post by atsda on Jun 22, 2022 19:37:07 GMT
Thank you. I will give this a try. To this point, I have never done blocks or isolated track sections. I am using the conventional o gauge tuvular track. Alfred
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Post by JKP on Jun 22, 2022 20:21:36 GMT
Thank you. I will give this a try. To this point, I have never done blocks or isolated track sections. I am using the conventional o gauge tuvular track. Alfred I haven't used tubular track, not sure how to do blocks or isolated track sections with that kind of track. Maybe someone else can chime in.
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Post by atsda on Jun 22, 2022 21:32:36 GMT
Thank you. If someone does, could you let me know if i can use insulated track pin or do I have to cut the center rail?
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Post by Country Joe on Jun 23, 2022 22:15:01 GMT
You can use an insulated pin in the center rail on both ends of the tracks to create an insulated block. If it's a spur track you only need one insulated pin.
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Post by firewood on Jun 25, 2022 3:05:12 GMT
Thank you. I will give this a try. To this point, I have never done blocks or isolated track sections. I am using the conventional o gauge tuvular track. Alfred I have eight blocks on my layout with insulated pins at the center rails. By the time all the track is down I should have about fifteen. Each block is connected to a center-off rocker switch at the control panel that lets me choose either one of the two throttles. You can find diagrams below for block control - it's exactly what I use. www.trains.com/ctt/how-to/restoration-repair/handbook-of-layout-wiring/I have a two-track yard that is wired as a single block, but I have a separate isolating switch that kills the power to one of the tracks - handy for temporary locomotive parking while switching cars. Dave
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Post by atsda on Jun 27, 2022 19:35:54 GMT
Country Joe, Firewood, Dave: Thank you for the info, layout description, and block info - all very helpful. I have installed 3 toggle switches - one to isolate track section, one to cutoff A power, and one to cut off B power. I have the B wired, but need to wire the A toggles and use the track pins.
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Post by atsda on Jun 27, 2022 20:06:33 GMT
With the arrangement I mentioned above, I can run a trainover the whole layout using A or B throttle or run a train on A loop and B loop independently. I have two parallel track sections that I can eventually isolate, and then park trains to switch which ones are in A or B loop. Alfred
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Post by Country Joe on Jun 27, 2022 20:15:07 GMT
Atsda, make sure you can't turn on both the A and B transformers on the same track at the same time. Even if you are super careful you will eventually have an accident when both are on at the same time.
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Post by Adam on Jun 27, 2022 22:07:40 GMT
Atsda, make sure you can't turn on both the A and B transformers on the same track at the same time. Even if you are super careful you will eventually have an accident when both are on at the same time. I avoid the problem by running the transformers through a three-way automotive switch. Forces me to select one of the transformers, with the added bonus of having an “off” so I can cut power all together. |
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Post by ptc on Jun 29, 2022 12:02:39 GMT
Forrest, I would not worry about having to make changes on you beautiful layout. It is stunning as it is.
Time to enjoy it.
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