I am currently building a layout using Lionel tubular " O " guage track and 022 switches. I am using Gargraves track for the long straight runs. I am finding that I need more power to my UCS tracks to make the magnets uncouple properly. The train speed thru the yard is slow and the power to the track is not enough to work some of the couplers. Is there a solution to this problem? I would appreciate any advice from anyone?
You can find technical information about the UCS at http://pictures.olsenstoy.com/searchcd31.htm?itm=689
It looks like you could connect the controller wire that normally attaches to the third UCS terminal from the left directly to an accessory voltage, leaving that third terminal open.
This works as Bob suggests. I have done it on my layout.
Regards,
Roy
same here,I did the same with mine, works great w/ operating car’s. the installation inst.'s have a wireing diagram to do this.
All of my UCS tracks are wired to a dedicated variable voltage line so I can set it for optimum parformance. Remove the wire from terminal #3 (third from the left) and connect the wire to an accessory voltage supply. You could use one of the smaller transformers as a voltage source exclusively for this purpose, because the only time any current is drawn is when the UCS is actuated and they will supply enough current for that kind of operation. Even if you hook several UCS to one source, you probably will only activate one at a time.
There was an article a while back in CTT or maybe OGR about removing the magnet coils from 027 uncoupling tracks and installing them where needed for uncoupling. Perhaps someone can remember where this can be found.
The best thing about having an independent supply to the UCS sections is that you can turn off track power while unloading, therefore no E-unit buzz and the kids can unload and reload the milk car 16 times in a row without moving it as my grandkids like to do.