@Bob Delbridge posted:I'm using 3-rail wheels on code 148 2-rail track made by Atlas, Micro-Engineering, and Signature Switch. So far ZERO derailments that weren't operator error.
Here's a circuit I have for using MTH batteries in GGD 3-rail passenger cars:
The existing switch and light strip were the ones that came with the GGD cars. I hid the battery and voltage regulator inside the GGD underbody cluster piece where the on/off switch is located. I have since removed them but it does work. I removed them to tidy the circuit a bit and to make it easier to get to the battery jack for charging, which I have yet to do.
Problem with most of these PBRC conversions is you have to make provisions for charging and mounting of things like jacks and connectors. I reused the 10-pin plug on the MTH steamers, but on my Williams brass engines I used both 10-pin and 4-pin, depending on what I had available. If I used a MTH 10-pin plug on a Williams engine I had to Dremel a place to put it (enlarge the spot already there for the 4-pin plug). What I'm saying is, at least on steamers, it's not a "pull the old system out and put the new system in" type of thing. Not hard, simply something that had to be done.
Thank you very much Bob for your detailed explanation and neatly drawn sketch as it is greatly appreciated.
This helps a lot in answering my questions and concerns.
From what I gather, converting an engine to BlueRail can be very expensive depending on what's needed. But if the manufacturers were to make engines with this system built-in the pricing would be less and I can see many individuals going this route.
Why would you want to fool around with all kinds of wiring, control systems and phasing of transformers, and dreadful electrical shorts that can kill wipe out your engines electronics if you don't have too?
This system simplifies the hobby by removing the need to crawl around under tables and having to purchase expensive transformers.
Switches setup with battery power, with auto derailing feature and wireless control would even further simplify the hobby.
This system has a huge potential - but it needs to be economical for it to take off.
