Friday, May 11, 2012

A Matter of Control



Now that I can run trains completely around both mains, and all four platform tracks, as well as the arrival/departure track, I figured it was time to add some control tot he layout so I could park trains, and control the DC/DCC for those that are active.


I used a piece of "local" Masonite (not sure what they call it here, but if it barks like a dog...). The DPDT/Center Off switches cost me about £1 (about $1.60) each, and are installed through seven millimeter (quarter inch) holes in the board.


Original West end panel:




I found a couple of small niggles while drilling the holes, and I realized after mounting the switches that I had COMPLETELY forgotten a yard track as well! So, quite literally, back to the drawing board, or back to drawing on the board.


Original panel and “corrected” replacement:




East End:




Hopefully I can replace the switches on the west end, add the ones on the east end, and wire them up this week, and install and connect them the next time I am working on the layout.