Lionel Trains - Lionel Train Forum - Model Train Forum
General Lionel & Model Train Discussion => General Lionel Model Train Discussion => Topic started by: Cutnshoots on December 01, 2020, 11:32:30 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!
-
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
-
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
-
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?
-
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
-
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!