How to convert fastrack switch to Command Control

I do not know about the fast track switches using a driver board, but can these not be operated using the Lionel SC-2 switch controller? I have used these controllers on my Flyer layout and they are pretty simple to hook up.

Ray

Hi, I have a command control )-72 fastrack switch with a TMCC board that doesn't work. I tried getting the part from Lionel but they won't sell it to me but they will repair it (however the cost of repair and shipping is as much as I paid for the switch) but it was cheaper to buy a new one. So I am not sure they will sell the part to upgrade regular remote switches. If they do I would be very interested in the cost so I can fix my dead CC switch

rgross,

   You are absolutely correct about not being able to purchase the part your self, however I would contact GGG or Guns to see if they might be able to purchase the part

for you as a Lionel Repair Tech.    The parts still might be as expensive as purchasing a new FT CC switch, when Charlie N has them on sale each February however.

PCRR/Dave

Yes you can control the switches with a SC-2, but my layout is on the living room floor and I need to eliminate surface wiring from the switches to the SC-2.

Thanks for the info Dave !!

Rick,

   Any time sir.

PCRR/Dave

  After checking out the Motor Driver board of the non TMCC switch, I have concluded that the board is NOT suitable for directly converting Non TMCC switches to TMCC switches by just adding a connecting cable between the new Radio PCB and the old Motor Driver PCB. The reason is that the Radio PCB gets its power from the new modified Motor Driver board and requires +5V and the old Motor Driver PCB of the NON TMCC switch (part number 691-TRC3-F ) outputs track 3rd rail voltage and NOT the +5 volts that the TMCC Radio board requires. Using it without an external +5V regulator would damage the Radio board of the TMCC Switch.

  I have successfully converted my Non TMCC switch to Command Control by installing a Radio board, new Motor Driver board, push button switch, and making up a connecting cable from the Radio board to the Motor driver board. It functions perfectly.  Now wither or not this is COST effective to make the conversion is yet to be determined, but it was a fun project and proven doable.       

Hi GeoK, would you mind sharing where you got the radio board? Since my switch works fine every other way I am thinking if I can replace it inexpensively that might be a way to go? Thanks for any info

Rick

Pine Creek Railroad Dave said "You are absolutely correct about not being able to purchase the part yourself."

Rick,

I got my Radio board from an authorized Lionel repair place.  Let me check to see if they want any non local business. I get the impression that Lionel service policies are fussy and territorial.  I would hate to cause my very nice service person any grief because of what Pine Creek Railroad Dave said.

George

 Thanks George very much appreciated

COST ANALYSIS:

Lionel part # 691FTSWB01 PCB / Receiver / Fastrack Switch / TMCC  $18.60
Lionel part # 691TRC4A01 PCB / Motor Driver / Fastrack Switch / TMCC $23.00

Lionel S/H   $9.00 to Maryland.
E-Bay part # JST 2.0 PH8-Pin ( Female connector with leads + unneeded male connector)  10 for $8.99
E-Bay part # JST 1.5 ZH 5 Pin ( Female connector with leads + unneeded male connector)  10 for $6.49 [JST 1.5 ZH 6 PIN if converting using old Motor Driver PCB]
E-Bay S/H included free.
Digikey.com part # 679-2386-1-ND Switch Tactile SPST-NO  $0.71
Digikey.com S/H $2.86 to Maryland.
Heat Shrinkable tubing and lead free solder.
5 minute Epoxy (To install the push button programing switch).

So, about $70 to do ONE switch plus cost of heat shrinkable tubing, epoxy, and solder.
I did FOUR switches for about $49 each plus the cost of heat shrinkable tubing, epoxy, and solder.
You save money on Lionel S/H and the JST connectors buy doing more than one switch.  But......read on to the end of this thread.  The price is going down WAY down.

I'm confused if the two boards cost $41.60 for one switch how you converted four for $49, can you do the math for me?

You missed the EACH after the $49

If I did the engineering, so as to use the old Motor Driver PCB, I could drive the cost down about another $15/switch or more, but I was lazy.

You're right, I skipped over that word.  Given that, I think I'd just buy the factory command boards and sell my old ones used.

ElectricRR will soon offer a command control upgrade for the non-command control remote switches.  We expect to have these in stock in a few months.

Very cool Jon, that's a great idea!   Any "sneak peek" of what it will look like and cost? 

It will be the same radio as sold in the command switches with a 5v power supply addition.  It will fit in the same mounting slot under the switch and plug right into the TRC3 PCB.  Easy, simple, upgrade.  Soon as we have the boards in stock, we will post instructions.

jon,

    Great upgrade, will they be available to the general public, or will this availability just be for the Lionel repair Techs?

PCRR/Dave

Sounds like a great idea, I have a bunch of switches I'd like to upgrade.