Toy Train Layout Wiring - Switches, Page 1
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(see also Switches, Page 2, Access Bridges used as Switches)
Toggle Track Power Between Conventional and DCS or TMCC
These are the switch boxes shown on the Main Control Cart. The colors designate the track controlled by that switch. Tracks can be switched off, to Command, or Conventional. The red lights indicate if the tracks are powered.
Switch in Center Position with No Power
to Track
The blue wire ties into the PTC
Resettable Fuse that allows power to the track. See
diagram below. The red wire goes to the MTHDCS TIU. Lionel
TMCC power, or Lionel Legacy power for Command Control. The
yellow wire goes to any variable voltage ac power source. In
the SSPRR Run Room the yellow wire would go to MTH Z4000s controlled
by the Z4000 Remote allowing for Conventional remote control.
Switch in Conventional Position with
Power to Track
The transformer is at about 16 volts and the green indicator lamp is
On.
This is a 24 volt incandescent lamp with a green lens. The
switch used is a Carling 15A-125VAC.
Choose the Illustration or Diagram that
Makes Sense.
They both show the same wiring.
Alex Shared this Diagram
Control Box and Track Trip
(see also Access Bridges used as Switches)
Control Box for Accessory
Tools and Materials
Plastic project box, Unibit for easy drilling in plastic box, sponge
to clean soldering tip,
soldering iron, 22 gauge wire, single pole switch, and dry wall
screws
Solder is 62/36/2 solder 0.015" diam
Switch Controls Power to
Maiden Rescue
Simple on/off switch cuts power to prevent buzzing every time a
train passes.
Drill big hole for wires through fascia and frame with a heavy duty drill motor and spade bit. Pre drill holes for dry wall screws to ease attachment.
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Choose switches rated 3-6 amps 125 VAC for toy train duty. (one time installation)
Track Trip
When using a track trip, the common is switched, not the variable
voltage.
This track trip material is 0.004" thick
DuPont Kapton with .002" copper
coating. The copper coating
is on a tough flexible insulated backing.
This DuPont Kapton is scrap from aerospace antenna construction.
For a track trip, super flex wire with fine strands is inserted in
slot and soldered to
the copper without harming the tough insulated backing.
The final copper strip is 1/4" wide and 5/8" long. Make hard crease
or creases to fit the outside rail and secure with Scotch Permanent double sided tape.
The tape prevents slipping.
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This Track Trip is easy with DuPont Kapton.  |
Metal axle and wheels serve as the SPST switch.  |
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Link for illustrated use of Track Trip with Maiden Rescue |
Track Trip Circuit |
| Question? Contact the SSPRR COO (Chief Operating Officer) using the email button to the right. (If email link is absent, please enable JavaScript.) |
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See Page 2, Access Bridges used as Switches or Return to 3 Rail O Gauge Toy Trains