quote:I am using Lionel tubular track with DCS. I have 2 sidings both coming off switch tracks. When placing a insulated pin in the center rail, do you leave the insulated pin in place that is there now in the switch track ? Also what type of a switch is used to send power off & on to the siding ? Thank you in advance for your replies.
If you are referring to the insulated in one of the outside rails, it must remain in place. The little section of rail that has the pin is used for the non-derailing feature. When a pair of wheels complete a circuit between the rail on the the other side, and that rail, the switch will throw to prevent a derailment. If you remove the pin, the rail will always have power, and the switch will throw to that side. Remove the pins from both the straight and curved rails, and the switch will "chatter" going back and forth between the two directions.
As far as electrical switches to control power to the siding, you can use almost anything. I typically use double pole, double throw, center off toggle switches. On one layout, I wanted a retro look, so I used ceramic based knife switches. I don't think I'd do that again.
The reaosn for double throw, center off is to be able to select which ZW outside handle controls the track, including "off".
The second pole can be used to wire up some pilot lights.
