Technical
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!
Will Any Decoder Do?
Ben sent in this question for readers:
“This might sound stupid but can I use any decoder model in a locos? I ask this because I will be soldering the connections regardless and know the frames can vary between manufacturers, so can I still choose any decoder, or will I need specific decoders for certain locos?
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Using Double Pole Double Throw Switches With DCC
Callum asks readers:
“When using Double Pole Double Throw (DPDT) switches with DCC, is it advisable to stop my loco first, or is it okay to throw the switch while my loco is running? My thinking is that I should stop it first?”
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Insulfrogs or Electrofrogs
Duncan is into N gauge and sent in this question:
“Hi just starting in N gauge, I am planning my DCC railway and want to know about turnouts, do I need Insulfrogs or Electrofrogs?”
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Power To Layout
Gary has this question:
“I am brand new to model railroading & will be setting-up a small N Scale layout (less than 4′ x 8′)using Kato Unitrak. I also have a Kato locomotive that has DCC with LokSound. After wiring the bus (with feeders) can I initially run the locomotive using the Kato Power Controller (22-018) that I have and then in the near future switch over to the NCE Power Cab I have been looking at? Or, should I just bite the bullet and go out and get the Power Cab to begin with? I just can’t seem to find any articles that address this issue. Let me thank you in advance for any help/guidance any of you may be able to provide.”
Wiring 2 Kato Switches With 1 Controller
Richard asks:
“Is it possible to wire 2 Kato switches to so that when I throw the controller lever they both switch? I have the switches on opposite sides of my layout with a half circle connecting them to my main line.“
Problem With Switch Turnout Connectivity
Michael C asks:
“I’m using Atlas switches and turnouts but the connectivity is not as good as it used to be. What should I do?”
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DCC Decoder Selection
N scale enthusiast Michael has this question:
“I picked up an Alco 479 PA DCC ready loco – a pair of them with the road name Southern Pacific. I’m having a heck of a time finding the right sound decoder for this loco. I believe Alco is Atlas? The current non DCC board says CDN4 DCC Ready PCB. Guidance please?”
022 Lionel Switches
Gary who models O scale asks:
“You have probably answered this before. I have an 022 Lionel switch that the track arm will not fully move to the left or right. I have checked and serviced it three times. Any suggestions? I hate to just dump it. Thanks.”
Wire and Layout Software
Ed who models in HO asks:
“I have lots of wire from my old well pump (over 80 feet). Can I use it for my main wiring on my layout? I am also looking for software for Marklin K track. Any ideas?”
Heisler Drive-Line Short
John asks readers:
“I have an HO brass Heisler with a square rod and tube for the driveline. I think it was insulated at one time but I can’t figure out what to use as it must slide freely. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.”
Reed detector
Daniel asks:
“Dear all model train guys, I’ve decided to built up my Marklin HO layout by myself. Big challenge! I am trying to understand digital and electronics, would you please give me an explanation about a Reed detector, how it works and how is connected to the CS 3 or K84? Deeply appreciate your suggestions.”
Z Scale Battery Controller
Phil a Z scale enthusiast asks:
“Is there a way to utilize a Rokuhan Z gauge battery train controller (RC03) to power non-Rokuhan accessories such as street lights and scratch built carnival rides, as well as power the train? Rokuhan does not sell the sockets separately that fit into their accessory power terminal (A016) which links to their RC03 controller…. Alternatively, I require a battery controller for a Z scale suitcase layout I am currently constructing. Is there any other battery controller that would do the job (power train and accessories) that anyone is aware of?”
S Scale American Flyer Engine Repairs
John asks readers:
“Do you know someone who works on American flyer older engines? Let me know one way or the other. The trains are late 1940sor early 50’s. Thanks.”
Magnet Wire or Stranded Wire For Rewiring Locomotives?
Bradon asks:
“I was going to use an old roll of magnet wire to rewire locomotives, but a friend said I should use stranded teflon coated wire instead. Thoughts?”
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3 Switches Without Track?
Gary who models O scale asks:
“I have a situation where I need to put three switches in a row, with no track sections in between. Will this arrangement give me a problem? Due to the design of the layout, I need this setup. Appreciate any suggestions or comments.”
Confused Selecting Feeder and Buss Wires and Suitcase Connectors
Anthony needs help from experienced railroaders:
“I’m underway with my new HO setup. I will have a couple of runs of over 50ft. I don’t want to soldier direct to the rails unless I absolutely need too. I read that suitcase connectors are the way to go but I’m unsure what feeder and buss wires to use and the color connectors to use?”
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6 volt – 9 volt Variable DC Voltage?
Kevin has a power supply question for readers:
“Are there plans to build a power pack to supply a dedicated 6 volts and 9 volts instead of a variable dc voltage?”
MTH Tripplex with Dropped Front Driveshaft
Dene asks:
“My 2 MTH Tripplex’s both have dropped the front driveshaft, so front drivers don’t turn round anymore. Does Anyone know how to dismantle the boiler to get into the front driveshaft please? Has anyone else had this problem? Any help would be greatly appreciated thanks.”
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