Reverse loop fix?

[Habbyguy]

Been doing some research on reverse loops. And others have said that if the reverse loop is shorter than the train, the metal wheels on the rolling stock might make a short circuit. Which will be a problem on my layout. So could you not just cut a 1/4" to 1/2" isolation block(dead track) at both ends of the loop?

 

[johnp]

As shown, if your train is longer than the loop, the head end will bump the tail end at the switch.

As for the short gaps, the idea will work as long as there are no lighted cars or pusher locomotives at the rear.

You still have to set proper polarity when the locomotive crosses the gap.

JohnP

 

[BIG-D]

you could also use an insulated rail joiner and one gap

 

[tankist]

your reverse loop track should be longer then the longest train. no way around this

you could also use an insulated rail joiner and one gap

electrically its exactly the same thing, so whats the point?

 

[Rico]

You didn't mention if you're going DC or DCC, thyt would make a diferance on the gapping I believe(?). There's a few ways to go with wiring, from a simple toggle switch to a bridge rectifier, to an automatic reverser. (not an original question, I know)
Looks like G scale track?

 

[Shortliner2001]

If the train is longer than the reverse loop, how on earth is it going to get back onto the main with cars still coming towards it on the main??? I'd suggest you take a look at http://www.zelmeroz.com/album_model/members/klyzlr/DynamiteCanyon.pdf

 

[Habbyguy]

As some of you may know I have changed my layout. So my new reverse loops should be long enough now.

 

[Rico]

Doesn't matter how many revisions you do, you'll still change things as you build! It's kind of an unwritten law of sorts.
Hmmm... on the other hand I wonder how many here actually designed and built a layout right to the plan?

 

[Habbyguy]

I am 1/4 way done and so far exactly to plan. But may change a few things when I get to them. LOL

 

[doct0rnic]

The way to wire it is using plastic rail joiners and a separate directional switch if its DC I dont know how to wire for DCC but also Metal wheels wont short because there already insulated. the only problem you might have with metal wheels is if your powering the frog and one of the wheels might make contact with the point and rail.

 

[Selector]

In DCC, the metal tires rolling over the gap, and actually thereby bridging it for a brief fraction of a second, is most often enough to trip the detection circuitry in most DCC systems. Their being insulated from the axles is not relevant...it is that they complete the rail as they cover the gap, and the short can take place forward of the engine at the turnout if it happens to be power-routing.

-Crandell