I think that three reversing loop modules need to be installed on my layout but where are the correct places to do so? I am sure of only one but not the others. Are there any experts that can tell me where exactly to gap the tracks and place the modules? Thank you in advance
I’m only counting two. The cross-loop in front of the dryer and the long reverse loop that starts at 11 o’clock and ends at 1 o’clock.
I agree with Chip, I’ve only got two also. Here is a modified track plan. The green lines are the reversing sections (the sidings that branch off from them should be wired as part of the reversing sections, too). I’m not an expert, others might have better ideas than I do.
FT
Are you guys sure? Bcause I currently have three hooked up right now and they have been hooked up for a couple of years with no problems but just a few weeks ago the one I have installed on the mainline on the WEST end of the layout is shorting out and I have it undone. I have three in places I was told should be moved Let me try to figure out how to use the paint on my computer to show you were I have them at. So 2 is all I need? I see three there but I may be very wrong.
I currently have these three on the layout. Where the yellow lines cross the track those are where I insulated the track for the reverse loop modules. This is incorrect though?
I don’t see three on here. A REVERSING loop is a place where the train would REVERSE direction and then go over the same piece of track. The west side of your layout is just a straight shot with a passing siding, the train can’t turn there. You can wire it as it’s own mini-power district, but it is not a reverse loop.
FT
Is the #2 reverse loop section fine where it is? Then do I isolate the tracks where the other one was drawn? I will then remove the #1 and #3 right? Attach the track sections together that were isolated? Where should I isolate on your drawing? Iw ill do this Tomorrow morning so I am really into this job getting done so the west end will run correctly now. Thanks guys
Steffd That is why I counted three reversing loops for my layout because of the one on the bottom. By the way it is a left hand switch there not a wye.
Nice plan. In addition to the two reverse loops mentioned, there is also a wye “which is a reversing section” on the bottom right hand side on the main line in blue. You essentially have two reversing sections in one (combination wye and reverse loop just above it) and perhaps the reason why you are having shorts is because two trains are passing in the reversing sections at the same time. Just my [2c][2c]
Regards,
Steff
Good call Steff, I missed the wye.
I’d like a little more information. Are you running DC with blocks or DCC with automatic reversing units, like Tony’s PS-Rev? Also, how long are your trains? If they will all fit inside that small bit of wye in the SE corner, then it will be much easier.
FT
Ladell Bell,
The “wye” I am referring to does not refer to the switch you are using, it is the track configuration. http://www.nmra.org/beginner/wye.gif
Here is another link you may find useful http://www.nmra.org/beginner/wiring.html
Regards
Steff
Is this drawing a better location for the two reverse loops? Isolating at the yellow lines which is big enough for about three or four trains MU’d on my layout.
I am actually running DCC. On my previous layout I had both a wye and a reverse loop and was using the Loy’s Toy’s Automatic Reverse Section Controller (ARSC) http://www.loystoys.com/loystoys/arsc.html which worked okay, but uses mechanical relays which can stick from time to time and have a lower life expectancy. My New layout only requires one reversing section for my turntable and the Loy’s (ARSC) is not suitable for turntable applications. I have therefore just ordered the OG-AR DCC Auto Reverser-Breaker by DCC Specialties http://www.dccspecialties.com/products/onguard.htm which is solid state plus offers overload protection and is essentially very similar to Tony’s PS-Rev except I believe the PS-Rev is rated at 8A and the OG-AR from DCC Specialties is 4A but it is also $13.00 less at Tony’s if you want to compare http://www.tonystrains.com/products/type_powerprotect.htm. All my other DCC components except power which is also from DCC Specialties are from Lenz including all modules and accessory decoders for block occupancy and Computer train control and monitoring. All my locomotive decoders are from ESU.
Regards,
Steff
Steff,
Actually, the question about DC vs. DCC was intended for Ladell Bell, but upon re-reading my post, I can see that I wasn’t very clear on that. I did look at your layout, though, Steff, very impressive. That is a lot of caternary to install. I don’t think that would be my choice, but that is what makes the hobby fun - seeing what others do with their ideas. Good job. And thanks for the info on the other DCC stuff you are using. I wasn’t aware of the On Guard reverser, that will bear some looking into. Thanks again.
FT
You need to insulate your loops and wye as individual reversing sections. First, it’s important to know if you are running DCC or standard DC with blocks? If DCC, do you intend to operated your reversing sections manually or automatically?
I am sorry if I was not clear. I am using Lenz set-100 DCC. I already have the reverse loop modules installed and running for almost two years. I want to relocate the two needed in the correct place especially since now I am having a module conflict on the layout. If I isolate at the points in the last picture will that be correct? The Lenz RL modules automatically reverse too. Thanks
I’m not sure at this point but I will try taking a look tomorrow as it is 2:30 AM and I think it’s time for bed as my daughter will be up in about 4 hours. I am curious though, you say your layout has been operating for about 2 years as is and the problems have only begun recently, or has this always been a problem? Perhaps there is an issue with the LK100. These modules have mechanical relays and the contacts may stick occasionally or fail over time. Sometimes gently flicking the relays can reset them. Although my system and all my components are Lenz, I have opted to use a solid state (No relays) reversing module.
In the meantime, I have included this link which may be of assistance.
http://www.wiringfordcc.com/track.htm
Steff
Ladell,
If the reverse unit at the far left of the drawing went out, it does not matter as it does not do anything. The way you have isolated the track will work, but it is about the most complicated way doing it I could think of.
There are only two places where the track reverses upon itself such that the polarity of one track is the opposite direction when it meets the other track. Not coincidentally, it is the same place that you can reverse the direction of a train.
Look at the diagram below. If you take out the tracks that I have placed white dots on, there is no way you can reverse a train. Once in motion, it will go that direction until you take it off and turn it around. Notice how there are only two tracks that need to be isolated. You do this by placing insulated joiners at the ends of the turnouts as designated by the yellow dots.
Why you were told to do it the way you did, I don’t know. In essence, you are still isolating those two sections I pointed out, but it is not the easiest way to do so. But test it yourself. See if you can turn a train not using those two pieces of track I put dots on.
This person has gotten some conflicting information. I’m bumping this back up to see that a consensus is formed.
Chip is spot on only two reverse loop controllers required as he has drawn
Ken.
Have been watching this develop. Have to agree with SpaceMouse. Only two in the areas he indicated
