Hello. I've got a question regarding my current setup. I am dipping my toe into command control and I think I am using more juice than my Powerhouse/Powermaster can handle.
I have a simple loop of track that is about 45 feet around, two TMCC locomotives ( a PRR S-1 and a NYC Dreyfuss Hudson) each with 6 lighted passenger cars (Williams Crown Line Edition 20" aluminum cars). They are all equipped with power-sucking incandescent bulbs. I'm running the whole thing with a CAB1 base and remote and powering it with a 180W Powerhouse and a switchable Powermaster.
After I got it all set up, the Powermaster tripped immediately when flipping the switch on. I can run both trains for a while with only three cars on each. They go for while , but eventually the Powermaster has enough. Usually once they start picking up speed. My assumption is that I'm drawing too much amperage with my antiquated lighting. I'm planning to convert at least the passenger cars to led lighting in the future.
My questions are:
Am I harming my locomotives when it all shuts down? Or my Powermaster?
Do I need more juice to the track?
I'm slowly collecting equipment and track to eventually build a larger layout with a couple mainlines, reversing loops and a siding. Nothing too huge, but more fun than an oval. I'm beginning to realize the wiring will be more complicated than I originally thought and the power demands for these two trains might be more than I bargained for.
Thanks!
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