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Reverse Loops/Sections On RR Layout
A reader has this question for others:
“I will be using auto reverse units on a dcc layout with one loop and probably two reverse sections. I know I will have to block an area long enough for the train to fit in and it is isolated from the main bus wiring except for powering the reverse unit, and using a sub bus with feeders.
My question for others in the hobby is; when you get into the blocked area, the auto reverse unit tells the decoder in the locomotive of a polarity change. Does anyone know what activates the reverser? I can understand by using a DPDT switch, I need to just throw the switch in the blocked area and the decoder reads a short. Can some tell me from which side of the turnout do I need to wire in your sub bus for an auto reverse?
I hope I don’t sound to whacked out! Any help from others is welcome.”
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The sub-bus feeding to the reverse loop must be totally separated from the main bus. Normally spaced drop wires from the reverse loop connect to the sub-bus. The auto reverse switching device is then connected as per wiring instructions to the sub-bus, (any where along the sub-bus, more particularly, the most convenient point). When the loco enters the reverse loop from either direction, the circuit senses a short circuit & virtually instantaneously changes the polarity within the track. Sure beats the manual polarity switches!
Hope this helps
Regards
Ian