Everything on model trains, model railroads, model railways, locomotives, model train layouts, scenery, wiring, DCC and more. Enjoy the world's best hobby... model railroading!
How to do Switch Wiring
Rich asks readers:
“Does anyone know if it is possible to wire a Green and Red Signal Status light (LEDs) to an N scale Bachmann DC turnout control switch such that I get a green light for mainline direction and the red when the switch is not in position to send the train off the mainline?”
Readers can upload a wiring diagram using the ‘Comments’ link.
SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION
This photo was taken on a model railroad layout that I ‘m building for a friend here in Brazil. The photo is a rural area of affordable housing next to a cemetery . The photo was taken with a Sony HX1 camera.
The easy answer is NO, as the Bachmann switch is an SPDT momentary switch. You need a constant switch to control your LEDs. Some other track systems have turnout motors that have two sets of SPDT contacts (use one to power frogs, for example, and the other set to control the power to your LEDs. I chose to use ATLAS under-track turnout motors because of the built in switch contacts. I light LEDs beside the tracks, as you wanted, but have another LED on the panel where my switch controlling the turnout motor as well. More wire, but it works well.