I have contacted the Digitrak Help Desk and followed all their instructions. Attached is a photo drawing of the problem I am having. Installed correctly, and with a test light showing correct power to both the mainline coming from the right and correct power on the "loop" (read spur), the test engine stops crossing the double cut shown on the right.

Electrical Wizzard Help Needed.

Problem - There are several spots on the railroad just prior to turnouts where the engine at low speed either pauses briefly or stops. There are correct drops before and after each turnout on both the main line and any siding/passing track. AT HIGHER SPEED the engine sails along nicely.

Solution? - I have cleaned wheels and track. Same o same o. The layout seems to have enough power using my Digitrak Zypher. Do I need a booster? Test light indicated power when applied at the spots where pausing or stalling happens.

I have begun assembly of a Heljan #804 turntable kit. I am not motorizing it, but suspect that the "extra parts" that are not marked may be required for that. The instructions don't say anything. Most are discs and there is some string in the package with the wipers for power. I have no idea how to use any of this stuff.

I have assembled the turntable to the point of attaching part D to C and the whole assembly moves freely as per the warnings. Next, according to the instructions involves the wires, sleeves and wipers. 

Speculating that I may need additional power due to the size of my projected layout, I am wondering if I can supply rail power beyond 50 feet using an older Troller Autopulse transformer (pictured) to help supplement the Digitrak Zypher I am using for this dcc layout. Running up to 10 engines over the various parts of the layout, can I supplement with this power pack or do I need to go to a DB 210 booster? 

I have two of these items and was using one on my old layout to provide power for lighted buildings and Tortoise switch machines.

Getting ready to wire the initial portion of my new layout and need to be pointed to a supplier. Thinking 16 ga bus solid copper in red and black (approx 100 ft ea) and 20 or 22 ga for drops from the rail (again solid core?) in red and black. 

Does anyone know of a retailer thaty actually has the Micro Engineering Ladder system in stock? I got a partial order but after more than a month the backorder portion looks like a lost cause. In addition to the ME #14-711 turnout, I need to order several others for a third yard on my layout under construction. 

The system laid out using paper templates works really well for my staging area. I gained two additional staging tracks in the same space, so I highly recommend their system. 

I'm turning to the experienced professionals here since I have tried several times consulting with dealers and not getting any replies or reliable answers to my questions. First, what size turntable do I need for my layout if my longest engine and tender to turn is a Berkshire 2-8-4? Secondly, does it come in Code 83 and is or can be operated manually? The longest reach to its position is one-half an arms length with no obstructions in the way.

Okay, since I have more than enough time for projects, I am woking on adding to my fleet of NKP cabooses. However, I do not have the ability die to lack of supplies to use my airbrush on the plastic parts before assembly.

Does anyone have any tips on using/thinning/alternative mixing of Testors or other brand paints to apply with a soft brush? I have several kits to assemble and can spare one with slightly warped sides to experiment on. Have at least 30 days to work on technique - LOL!

Stay Safe. Stay Home. Work on Trains.

Got my plan for the new layout iin our new home done by a professional. Waiting on final plan with minor changes to trackwork coming next week and plan on starting construction by the end of the month. 

My plan is for simple benchwork using 2" blue foam as the base for the railroad. Tips for working with this? Most switches are ground throws, but several more that are 20 inches away would be Tortise; tips on installation? Opinions on foam wire cutters? Make my own? Buy? 

Okay model railroad planners, here is the basic request: I need your opinion/comments on a design for a new layout for my new home railroad starting construction in January.

 Basic Info:

HO Scale Code 83 track

U-shaped 16’x14’x16’

Tortise and hand throw switches

Digitrak power and throttles

Nickel Plate Road 1940 – 1950’s theme

Steam and early diesel power