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How To Configure a Helper Loco
Steve asks readers:
“My layout is ‘conventional’ and the trains pass through several transformer controlled isolated blocks. Voltage to these blocks can vary, because of grades. How would you configure a Helper Loco, and do the Locos need to be the same model ?”
3 Responses to How To Configure a Helper Loco
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Hi Steve
I run basic DC controllers with block control as well.
I will run which loco I feel best fits the situation and often found out by experimentation.
I have found that as long as all the locos attached to the train run smoothly and draw about the same current it is not a problem.
Start the train slowly and let locos balance out the load themselves.
This can look cool because some locos might slip a bit before the other loco/locos take up the slack just like real trains.
I am talking about old school real trains without traction control.
I have run 8 locos attached to each other of different manufacture and age steam and diesel some of which do have different power needs and just start them slowly without problems or over heating but not for hours on end as some locos are more loaded than others again just like the real thing.
Enjoy have fun.
Regards
Tim
It doesn’t matter if you are running DC or DCC the engines should match speeds somewhat. Run selected engines near each other and find engines that hold about the same speed as the other through out the speed range It is really important in DCC or you will be spinning your wheels on one while waiting on the other to start rolling. Not really good on couplers either as they will be bucking each other I am running DCC and have teamed four engines together and all the engines have been adjusted through the speed range to closely match the others. This is especially important if you are using helpers mid train. You want them to pull evenly. In standard DC there is not much adjustment to even the speeds so getting engines paired as with MFG brands and size helps a lot. An example of bad matching power is the Bachmann Thomas engine The engine can be almost 1/3rd throttle before it begins moving and when it does it only goes fast. No way will it match the speed of my other engines. I have placed the engine on a zero-zero code on my DCC system which you can do on Digitrax but don’t let it sit there on the track and not be moving as it will heat up the motor in DCC. But in DCC I can make it creep and I can actually see Thomas Eyes move instead of a blur. So Thomas will get a DCC chip installed soon from Newman Atkinson
Thought I would add something here to what I had. I just picked up a DCC system for my small portable Tree Stump railroad. It is as easy as plugging in the new power. Thomas still needs a chip installed but I have a few engines that will make the tight curves on this layout.
If and when you convert your DC layout to DCC all you have to do is make sure your whole layout is powered up (everything is on) and go for it. If your tracks travel very far you will most likely need to run buss wires under the rails and run feeders to the tracks every 4 to 8 feet or so.
Also as I was re-reading your notes you you may want to power your helpers from another throttle to adjust the power needs as your train changes grades. With DCC that is possible. On my layout running DCC I ran with 3 engines tied together in DCC on the front and I used a single helper on the rear of the train and it was necessary to adjust the power on that helper engine. So tie the helper to the main power does not always work. I watch the cars couplers and see where the couplers have slack (or floating) Using DCC this works. Using Standard DC you are stuck with one throttle for all. Newman