Lionel Train Forum - Lionel Trains




Author Topic: Very new at this!  (Read 1892 times)

Cutnshoots

  • New Member
  • *
  • Posts: 4
    • View Profile

  • Total Badges: 3
    Badges: (View All)
    Topic Starter Level 1 First Post
Very new at this!
« on: December 01, 2020, 11:32:30 pm »
I've never tried this before and not sure if it can be done? I just moved and i'm wanting to do a lifelong build, I've read so much out there but nothing seems to answer my basic question. is it possible to build a track from tabletop to ceiling height without issues? I've read a lot on grades, but before I go to cutting up a new house to do a room to room track and spend a small fortune is doing so I wanted to know if anyone else has ever tried this and issues they ran into. looking to build something that's user friendly, build, set speeds, walk away for hours and let it run. the idea is a dual track system with trains running in both directions. I'm concerned when the train actually does the decent back to table level, does it need to be "babysitted" to keep it on a rail? as most of you can tell I'm new at this, and my questions may sound "dumb" to you. but I'm wanting to learn before I invest. any and all suggestions, comments are welcome!

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter


TrainLarry

  • Moderator
  • *****
  • Posts: 491
    • View Profile
  • Scale(s) Modeled: 0 scale

  • Total Badges: 19
    Badges: (View All)
    Seventh year Anniversary Sixth year Anniversary Fifth year Anniversary
Re: Very new at this!
« Reply #1 on: December 02, 2020, 09:08:35 am »
Welcome to the forum!

Your question is legitimate, and I had a layout with grades that worked perfectly.

The key is to isolate the grade sections with insulating pins in the center rail and powering them with separate transformers set to give the desired speed up and down the grades. All the transformers need to be phased together.


Larry

Cutnshoots

  • New Member
  • *
  • Posts: 4
    • View Profile

  • Total Badges: 3
    Badges: (View All)
    Topic Starter Level 1 First Post
Re: Very new at this!
« Reply #2 on: December 02, 2020, 09:36:19 am »
Thanks for the advice Larry, I'm not sure what you mean by "phasing" the transformers together, but I'll did into it. ..and that leads me to another question, when purchasing transformers do they all have to match in wattage? I've seen several used on auction sites thats reasonable, but haven't pulled the trigger yet because I don't know exactly what I need yet. I've read that multiple power blocks set up in your configuration is the way to do this, and inexpensive phone wire for the entire loop, If I understand what I'm reading right, I'm going to need a transformer for every 10-12 feet of track? thats a butload of transformers! ..and in your personal opinion would you stay away from "used" and just by new? wattage? brand? 

TrainLarry

  • Moderator
  • *****
  • Posts: 491
    • View Profile
  • Scale(s) Modeled: 0 scale

  • Total Badges: 19
    Badges: (View All)
    Seventh year Anniversary Sixth year Anniversary Fifth year Anniversary
Re: Very new at this!
« Reply #3 on: December 02, 2020, 10:20:04 am »
Transformers do not need to match in wattage.

You will need a minimum of 3 transformers - one for the main loop and one each for the ascent and descent grades. You may need feeder wires on the main loop to even out the voltage on the far side.

Used transformers from a reputable source are a good deal, especially the big postwar units like the KW (2 separate throttles for 2 trains) and the ZW (4 separate throttles for 4 trains).
http://www.tranz4mr.com/O_For_Sale.html

Here is a tutorial in phasing transformers.
https://lionelllc.wordpress.com/projects-and-tips/wiring-your-layout/phasing-transformers/

Hope this helps.
Enjoy your trains!


Larry

djacobsen

  • Toy Train Infidel
  • Global Moderator
  • *****
  • Posts: 474
  • A Child at Heart, Still Plays with Trains.
  • Location: Couch Mt, overlooking scenic Lone Star, Tx.
    • View Profile
  • Scale(s) Modeled: G-1:22.5 & 1:24, Standard Gauge,  O/O-27, Wind Up, S scale & N scale.

  • Total Badges: 33
    Badges: (View All)
    Tenth year Anniversary Nineth year Anniversary Level 6
Re: Very new at this!
« Reply #4 on: December 02, 2020, 01:29:01 pm »
Cutnshoots
Hello & Welcome to the Forum.
Table top to ceiling layout's are common, especially in large scale indoor layouts..  They are/were seen in restraunts.
Normally you want to use a 2% grade for your average locomotive & consist.
With traction tires and a short consist 4 to 6% grade is feasable.
With a geared locomotive (Climax, Heisler, etc) you might be able to climb an 8% grade with a light consist.

Happy Rails!
dave
Railroad Crossings: Mother Natures way of thinning the gene pool.

Cutnshoots

  • New Member
  • *
  • Posts: 4
    • View Profile

  • Total Badges: 3
    Badges: (View All)
    Topic Starter Level 1 First Post
Re: Very new at this!
« Reply #5 on: December 02, 2020, 07:57:35 pm »
Thanks Larry & Dave, I'm still moving into this house but as time allows I will be doing more research for my spare bedroom and game goom and probably have more questions/how too's, The links were great Larry!

 

Member Photos

Recent Threads

Lionel 0288 Coaling Station by Tom
March 15, 2024, 10:10:23 pm

Estate Sale, Huge Collection, Original Boxes by x78163
March 14, 2024, 04:15:45 pm

Re: Lionel ps by Trainzlover44
February 12, 2024, 10:36:14 am

Lionel ps by Trainzlover44
February 12, 2024, 10:01:26 am

Lionel flying Yankee whistle by Gtp2002
February 10, 2024, 12:02:46 pm

Menu


Donate to LTF Here

Lionel Trains

Lionel Train Forum - Model Train Forum

©2012-2023  LionelTrainForum.com