Bachmann EZ Track Turnouts

[lwmlwm44]

I am currently using Bachmann DCC Turnouts on my bench,   there is a area on my bench where I want to use the regular turnouts and was wondering if they are compatible with a total DCC operation.   Do they get all their power from the track for operation or do they have to be connected to a transformer as alot of traditional automatic switches need to be.

I know on my DCC Command unit there are no places to attach accesssories for power that I am aware of.   

Also, I read where the Bachmann No.44561  is a 18 in. radius turn and the No.44565 is larger.........is it a 22 in. radius does anyone know.

Thanks

Larry

[Jim Banner]

"Regular" turnouts require a power source of about 12 to 16 volts, either ac or dc, rated at 1/2 amp or more.  You are right - there is no provision for this on DCC command stations.  You can either use an old power pack if you have one or a "wall wart" power supply.  You also need some electrical switches to apply the power to the switch motors only for a moment - if you power them continuously, they will burn out.  You can use similar power sources to power building lights and animation.

The 44561 is a constant radius turnout.  That means you can replace a piece of curved track with a turnout of the same radius.  To be precise, the straight route is equal to a piece of straight track (about 9 ") while the curved route is equal to a standard curve plus a 1-1/2" straight.  The 44565, on the other hand, is shaped more like a real turnout.  The greatest difference is that it has only straight track at the frog (where two rails cross.)  The #5 is a measure of the angle at which the rails meet in the frog (about 11.5^o.)  It is not an exact replacement for a section of 22" radius track but works well with 22" radius.

Jim

[Robertj668]

Jim

Forgive my ignorance.  So my engines that require 22 " will work nicely on the #5 turnouts?

Robert

[Jim Banner]

Yes, assuming the turnout works properly.  But consider them minimums, just like 22" radius is minimum.  Larger is better.

Jim

[lwmlwm44]

Thanks Jim for the info.............I figured on going with the no. 5 switch for a better and easier turn.   

From what I can tell in the pics of the bachmann no 5, it appears that a control unit is included with the switch.  So I shoul d be able to connect the wiring for the switch to a spare transformer with a accessorie outlet of 12 to 16 v ac ( have a couple of these) and just connect the switch into my regular DCC line and be all set.

I know I can double up on switches on the EZ Command............I currently have 9 installed right now and programmed in, but decided to go with the regular switches for the yard..............being a bit more lower in price and really hate to double up switches on the same address.

Larry