I am working on my first real, but small layout. I thought I studied quite a bit before I started. I bought and read books and magazines and read web pages about the electronics. I practiced basic wiring and reverse loops by pinning track to foamboard. I am planning for DCC but starting as DC. I went for peco insulfrogs on my turnouts and planned my wiring around the fact that everything written about the insulated frog turnouts says that all paths have power all of the time.
Well it just aint so on my Peco Insulfrogs[:(]
The diverging path does not have power until the points are swung over to connect it. When I do that the through path beyond the points loses power. They are acting just like the the non insulated turnouts described as power routing turnouts.
Am I way off base in my understanding of the turnouts or did something change?
BTW: Anyone want to by a great book on basic model railroad wiring?
rejackson - sounds like your into 2 rail O gauge. If so it may take a little time till the right person reads your question. The majority of us are 3 rail fans.
If need be keep moving your post to the top of the list once a week or so. You might also post your question over on the Model Railroader forum where its more likely 2 railers might see it. Good luck.
You can’t expect a books general information to be correct about specific pieces of equipment. Actually a lot of folks prefer points that behave like that because it makes life a lot easier. Live sidings can be a nuisance sometimes and it saves you putting in an insulating block. If you’re using Peco I think you’re in HO, no? I didnt think Peco made any O gauge but I’d be happy to learn that they do. Peco makes good quality stuff.
Sorry, I guess I got into the wrong forum using a search for turnout info. I am N scale. Moderator can close this as I have copy/pasted to another forum.