I am attempting to include a new section that was not included in the plans after seeing it done from another modeler. I thought this would add a little something different to my layout. My question is what is the best way to wire it. I have drawn in the new track in green and labeled the joiners 1 to 4. The problem I see is that the common and the live run together. I can put in 4 plastic joiners and isolate this section but is that the best way. If possible can someone use the 1 to 4 to explain what they would do. http://www.railimages.com/gallery/claudioippolito/acz
Claudio: You just created a reverse loop and must wire that section for a reverse loop. Stay cool and run steam...
I was afraid of something like that. My previous reverse loop is still a mystery to me. Do I still need to wire it that way if I go DCC.
I made some modifications to the wiring. I have added 6 plastic joiners and R1 and R2. Can this be done. If so could I attach the new R1 and R2 to the previousor do I need a new controller. http://www.railimages.com/gallery/claudioippolito/ada
If you isolate the loop with plastic joiners, just monkey see, monkey do on the rest of the wiring to Controller/Selector
So are you telling me that my corrections are correct. It jus looks like it is missing another plastic joiner somewhere.
If you use DCC, the wiring for the reverse loop is very easy using a reverse loop module/controller/switch. It two wires from outside the reverse loop to the reverse loop module and two wires inside the reverse loop to the reverse loop module. Then the reverse loop module/switch/controller automatically changes the polarity of the rails when the loco enters and leaves the reverse loop. You need one reverse loop module/controller/switch for each reverse loop on your layout. You must isloate both rails of the reverse loop at both ends. (4 plastic railjoiners) Stay cool and run steam....
Bob that sounds easy enough. My next question is should I wait until I have DCC in place and leave the DC wiring on hold.
Claudio: You can buy your DCC equipment and hook it up to existing layout. Then you can wire your reverse loops and gradually make changes to your existing wiring. All DCC needs is two common bus lines, one for each rail and feeders dropped from the rails to the two common bus lines. It's really very easy to convert from DC to DCC. Once you do, you'll never look back at DC as a way to run a layout. Have fun.... Stay cool and run steam.....
