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Reply to "ZW Transformer diode replacement"

there is always some sort of arcing on contacts, AC or DC.  harmful AC arcing occurs during high inrush current of an AC device (125vish, 200W or more) and its that bane of many an ALPS switch, which uses hardened contact points such that we generally use a triac.  for DC, arcing occurs at much lower voltages and currents (this is why old points ignition used a ballast resistor, to bring the primary voltage thru the points to about 9v)

The switch in question is the 3 point switch in the whistle control.  Its contacts are copper with no platinum coating.

By going silicon with its insane power handling, you can pass a lot of current thru the contact that is the 'bottom' of the switch where there are 2 legs that join the diode output to the A (or D) lug.  Im only guessing it does this just based on my testing, can someone tell me, does it?  take off the top, run some trains and blow...this switch will never be repairable without a donor so that is why I am looking for an inrush limiter.

once the switch contacts carbon up, you can clean them with your wifes emory board...but the number of cleanings will be finite...

OGR Publishing, Inc., 1310 Eastside Centre Ct, Suite 6, Mountain Home, AR 72653
800-980-OGRR (6477)
www.ogaugerr.com

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