Testing A Marklin 0-6-0 3 Rail

Model Railroader Prototype information for the modeler
1

I was given an HO? scale Marklin 0-6-0 that is set up for 3 rail operation (it has a 3rd rail copper ‘ski’ between the wheels).

I run 2 rail HO - If I wanted to see if the Marklin runs by putting it upside down in the Dremel vise & applying some power to the underneath - where would I touch the wires, how many & what voltage would I use??

Thanks

Tanked

2

This is not really a prototype oriented question. This would probably fit better in the general discussion section of the Model Railroader Forums, where it would be seen by more modelers. The prototype forum is primarily for questions and answers about how models can be used to represent specific real trains.

Now for a guesstimate answer to your question… I believe the Maerklin 3-rail system is AC like traditional Lionel O gauge 3-rail tinplate. I would use an AC power source such as a Lionel transformer, placing one contact on the 3rd rail stud and one on a wheel. Then check it out with LOW power-- such as 3 to 10 volts. It might run full blast at some higher voltage but check it out low and slow first. That’s what I would do----but I would first check on the Maerklin system. Find an online reference and see what kind of transformer is sold for this loco-- is it described as AC or DC, and is the OUTPUT voltage described as 12 volt, 16 volt, 24 volt or whatever yoiu are interested in. I think…

3

You can run an AC motor on DC so you could try it with a DC powerpack if that’s what you have. One wire to the center pick-up, and one to one of the wheels - either side is OK. The Marklin track has “studs” that stick out on every second or third tie, and touch the center strip on the engine for power.

I don’t think I’d put it in a vise however - the LHS or Walthers etc. will be glad to sell you an HO foam cradle that’s designed to hold engines or cars upside while working on them without damaging the piece.

4

If I was to hook AC to the wheels would I do the ‘center pick-up & one of the wheels either side’ approach you mentioned for DC?

& also what sort of AC voltage do these older Marklin’s use?

Thanks

Tanked

5

Right. Whether it’s AC or DC there’s still a positive and negative. On three rail trains the the wheels aren’t insulated, both are picking up say negative while the center collector is getting positive.

I’m not sure on voltage but I would assume it would be a max of 12-16 volts AC. The engines wheels should start turning on just a couple of volts whether it’s AC or DC.