The auto control is missing in this train station, which stops the train for 10 seconds give or take. It was a nichrome "heat wire" mechanism. Does anyone have a 'modern' circuit diagram that can be used instead?
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
I think it would be far easier just to order the modern part from Lionel and install it in your station. It a modified thermostat with nichrome wire to do the heating.
That is a 133 station ( no stop control ) .
Is cost/availability of the thermostat the issue? If the part # is 132-44, the first couple hits on Google.
Perhaps there is yet another "modern part" as Aussteve says that is less expensive.
I'd think a "solid-state" timing circuit that performs the same function could be assembled for, say, $5 in parts but would involve working with small electronic components, soldering, etc. If that's your interest I'd re-phrase the question as such in the Electrical Forum.
Attachments
Images (1)
Yes, I will ask in the electronics forum for a modern schematic, because I do build circuits, solder, etc.
Good idea.
There is also a soft start resistor to consider to stop Jackrabbit start ups. (At least there is on the AF versions)
Resistance starts high and drops over a few seconds giving a smooth restart.
Do you have a part # or link to that AF part? Can it be used in the Lionel station? The soft-start capability is pretty clever and can be tricky to implement in a solid-state AC circuit.
I saw this and it got me to thinking, I have the same station. I pulled the control piece out and threw it in my junk box. A friend said it was more hassle to fix than it was worth.
Clarence Siman posted:I saw this and it got me to thinking, I have the same station. I pulled the control piece out and threw it in my junk box. A friend said it was more hassle to fix than it was worth.
In which case doesn't the engine reach the station, stop, and game over .... "that's all folks!" 
Not really, it rolls right past. if I want it to stop, I have to do it manually.
stan2004 posted:Do you have a part # or link to that AF part? Can it be used in the Lionel station? The soft-start capability is pretty clever and can be tricky to implement in a solid-state AC circuit.
No, I can't even remember the proper name for it at the moment, theyd operate thermaly, like a reverse of an automotive ballast resistor. I think it only takes like 3-4 seconds to reach max. output.
There's also a resistor for bleeding power so the e-unit won't cycle.
Soft start capability: You end up at pulse width
RR Concepts makes the Yardmaster. Here is a link to the page. It is capable of slowing and stopping, then gradually starting AC powered trains.
Delayed action relays/electronics holding different resistance or voltage drops would do it. Say three levels 1.5 seconds at each, you should be able to find a chase light sequencer to match that, lol. Old school would be to use caps to delay some relay actions too.
