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Railtrack 4 amp Power | DCC HO layout
Geoff asks readers:
“I have a DCC HO layout which is quite large so I have boosted the power to track to 4amps. My problem is the loco’s will run after pushing them but only for a short distance ie. a maximan 2ft. If I touch them even lightly the sound comes on and off but no movement unless pushed again and then only 2-3ins. I have tried all sorts of things like cleaning the track and so on so you can understand my frustration at building the setup but never had it run properly. I sincerely hope someone can help me rid myself of the frustration”
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3 Responses to Railtrack 4 amp Power | DCC HO layout
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One problem with large layouts can be voltage drop and adding a power supply with a higher current capability isn’t always the answer. It is worth considering adding booster connections at different positions in the trackwork and use heavier wiring to deliver the booster supplies (these are all parallel connections). Also take care not to create a short circuit by crossing wires, generally avoided by using colour coded wires. Hope this helps Les Wilson, UK.
you may want to check your DCC voltage all over the layout by using a tester for DCC from Tonys Trains in Vt. I have a similiar problem. I have 14.2 volts on 98% of track and 18.9 on the bal. I cannot get a single engine to run, even though the sound will operate. any solution for this?
mike
i use a buss line and drop every 3′ and i have a large layout.at 1 3rd speed my trains takes 4.5 min. to go around .i hope this helps