Train Nut posted:Too high of fixed voltage applied will cause excessive sparking.
yep. if they only need 12v to trip, use that. (and mind the heat build up when looping long trains will be higher temp at higher volts). These coils need rest time during running too.
Dirty wheels, and dirty track make for sparks. The railhead and inside railhead edge (or aboit 50° or tubular railhead) should shine some. Over polish and you'll need to scuff it some for traction.
Some spark is almost guaranteed though as there is a fresh, kinda strong pulling electrical connection being made by the wheels.
A very light loco might spark less with weight added: pressure has a huge impact on lowering resistance at a contact point.(HUGE)
You might try some crc electrical cleaner on a rag for cleaning wheels/rails. It leaves behind a alight electronic and metal friendly coating, not noticably a traction issue.
To best eliminate sparks, use a low power relay on the trigger rails and the relay's point's side can pass the high power feed to the sw.coil.
