If I add a siding with insulated joiners and power that section, will a train be able to move onto that siding and allow another train to pass?
For power I am using an MRC Tech 4 - Model 260 transformer.
Thoughts?
Mike
You will need to isolate the insulated track through a switch to turn it off when you are powering and operating the rest of the layout. A simple single pole single throw switch would isolate that section (turning it off and on) or you could use a double pole double throw switch running to both legs of the siding and add a second power pack to select powering that section from power pack “A” or “B”. Wiring can be relatively simple or complex depending on your preference and needs.
Good railroading.
Will
As long as both sides are powered and the power runs in the same direction, sure. If you have that section switched, you can kill the power there and store the train on that siding.
Why wouldn’t isolating the siding with insulated joiners and powering the siding with a separate power pack work? Would I still need a switch? Or is it because the loco and tender would be half on one power source and half on another?
Mike
Yes, running a locomotive accross the insulators will short the separate power supplies together and cause trouble. You need to have both sides of the gap running off the same power supply before transitioning.
Jim