DPDT

It does not matter. No center OFF needed. The switch must be a break-before-make configuration. Most are. Don't use a make-before-break switch.

Well, if you have a center

Well, if you have a center off, then you never need worry about "break before make" contacts.

On the other hand, with autoreversers running only around $23.00 or so, they're not that expensive - and completely automate the process. You'll never forget to throw the switch and run into the "opposing" line. They're even easier to install than the manual switch: No soldering and fewer connections.

DPDT switch

I agree with barr_ceo.  A center off will eliminate the make before break issue.  Having said that, a "quality" DPDT switch will run you about 10-12 bucks so why not just eliminate the hassle of wiring, remembering to throw the switch, oh crap I now have a short ect ect ect.......   Get an auto reverser.  Much simpler and not much more cost.  Unless, you just want to make it harder

It should not matter...

Tom,

It should not matter if the switch has a "center off" position unless you wish to have the reversing loop as a section where you can park a loco.

I have seen a DCC layout setup that did not require a DPDT switch.  I don't know how it was programmed but it did the job of reversing the polarity, automatically, each time a loco entered a given section of the reversing loop.

It may be worth checking out before you wire up a DPDT switch.

G. T.

I would use an auto reverser

I use the On Guard auto reverser.It's all solid state. no arcs or sparks and acts as a circuit breaker too.

You can get one here   http://tonystrains.com/?product_cat=auto_reverser   It is DCC only. Wont work on a DC layout.

Auto reverser

+1 for an auto reverser - well worth the extra money if you can afford it. Just needs a bit of adjusting to trip properly.

DPDT switch

I feel that the best way for me to go is the Auto Reverser - probably cost about AUD$70 landed here.However at my age the easier the better. Looks like Tony's Trains product will be the answer.

You can also have the turnout

You can also have the turnout auto throw if using the tortoise and hare.  So, if you have a loop to loop layout, you can have continuous running, what I am doing now.  By the way, I have also used the On Guard Auto Reversers, two installed so far (an inner and out loop in one reversing loop) and will be installing a third soon.

If you go the auto throw route, then you want DPDT with center off.  So when the switch is up, the turnout is thrown one way which you control, all the way down and the turnout is thrown the other way which you control; in the center position the auto throw kicks in and auto throws your turnout.

Auto Reverser

The On Guard looks good but any comments on the Digitrax AR1? Cost is a bit of a worry and I would like to hear from users of the Digitrax product. My DCC system is Digitrax purchased many years ago. Thanks. Tom

Digitrax AR-1

I've had several of the AR-1 units. They've all performed flawlessly.

Most rece nt one was installed in the tail of a wye that was also the lead to a yard on my BeNdTrack modules. The reversing section begins just before the Wye turnout, and includes the entire yard.

I'll be having to get a couple for my T-Trak setup too, since I've got a double-crossover on one of my modules, and plan to be adding some "balloon" loops.

Digitrax AR1

Thank you bar_ceo - have ordered one from Tony's.

Digitrax AR1

Thanks bar_ceo - have ordered one from Tony's. Tom