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!

model scale railroad houses to construct ho scale n scale oo gauge

Kato Power Pack / Atlas Turnouts

Ed models in N scale and asks:

“I’ve got a Kato unitack layout set up and I would like to add a yard using Atlas track. Does anyone have any ideas on how to operate the Atlas 3-wire turnouts using a Kato DC Power Pack? Is there an accessory that fits to the side of the power pack much like the Kato turnout controllers that would allow me to operate the Atlas controls? Suggestions please?”

One Response to Kato Power Pack / Atlas Turnouts

  • Anton R Bruce Sr says:

    The three contacts on Atlas switch machines can and should be used with DC. The center contact is the negative (or ground), while momentarily applying positive to either of the other two contacts will throw the switch in it’s direction. Wire your negative leads to the center terminal, and then you’ll need to use SPST temporary electronic switches to apply the positive power. You COULD use Atlas’s switch controller – they’ll handle that for you.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Add a photo or image related to your comment (JPEG only)

Reader Poll

Which scale of model trains do you operate or prefer?

View Results

Loading ... Loading ...

SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION

Download Your Free Catalog

Use Tiny Railroad Micro Controllers

N Scale Track Plans

Watch Video

Model Train DCC HELP

Model Train Help Ebook

NEW TO MODEL TRAINS?

FREE Tour Inside Club

Take a FREE tour inside the club.

Scenery Techniques Explained

Scenery & Layout Ideas

Model Railroading Blog Archive