I am in the process of setting up a small n scale layout (40" X 90"). At the present time I am trying to figure a simple dual cab block control. I am thinking about purchasing a MRC tech4 power pack w/pulse/momentum/braking. I have noticed a concern on damage to loco motors using pulse etc. Should I be concerned with this and avoid these features? Also can I run into trouble having one power pack with these features and another power pack without these features using cab control with a common rail wiring system? I welcome all thoughts on this from all. Thanks in advance
MRC is solid, quality stuff. I can think of no reason to be concerned. After using power supplies with Pulse for many long years, I've never had a problem due to that option. The last time I lost a motor, was nearly 25 years ago. That was due to it being a crummy motor to begin with........ If you have any doubts, I'm sure MRC would be happy to answer your questions. There should be an e-mail contact address at their web site: www.modelrectifier.com/ Boxcab E50 [ 07. March 2004, 20:38: Message edited by: BoxcabE50 ]
I've got 3 MRC Tech II power packs on my Spring River Sub, and they're solid performers. I've had one of them since 1982, and it's never failed me yet. Any motor losses were not from the power packs, but from the motors themselves. I don't know much about the Tech IV models, but if they're anything like the Tech IIs, I say buy you one! If ya wanna go on the cheap, look for a good used Tech II or IV on eBay (where I bought my Model 2400).
Most motors are not bothered by the output of the MRC power packs. However some aftermarket electronic lighting circuits will be damaged by it. If you are running stock engines this would not be a problem. The special FX lighting boards from Richmond Control will sometimes smoke at the higher voltage settings. I use a lot of cheep 1.5 volt regulators to power small light bulbs on many of my locomotives. The circuits have a bad habit of passing anything over 15 volts (which some of the pulses can be) right on through and my little bulbs just go POP.
