Joined: 26/08/2012(UTC) Posts: 13 Location: Dorset
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Can anyone advise me on how to go about powering Marklin Gauge 1 locos on a yet-to-be-built garden railway using onboard batteries and radio control ?
I have in mind using burglar alarm-type rechargeable batteries carried in rolling stock and using model car/aircraft speed controllers. Will the sound cards still operate using this kind of control ?
The reason is that I want to run live steam locos on the same track and these drop oil on the rails. Also, when laying down the track I can avoid having to do a lot of wiring and when its finished I won't have to keep the track completely clean.
Thanks
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 1 user liked this useful post by HFEVO2
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Joined: 29/07/2007(UTC) Posts: 1,435 Location: Switzerland
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Something like this perhaps? http://www.s-cab.com/ (although not specifically related to Marklin Gauge 1). There was also quite a comprehensive article in the magazine "Model Railroader" a couple of months ago.
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 1 user liked this useful post by Unholz
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Joined: 26/08/2012(UTC) Posts: 13 Location: Dorset
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Thanks. I've visited the website and emailed him for some info
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Joined: 22/01/2015(UTC) Posts: 207 Location: lower hudson valley, ny
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I have run LGB and Marklin 1 locos on the same track I was running Roundhouse live steam engines. You are correct in considering the oil issue but the steam locos should not be pouring out oil at an alarming rate. My set-up was out doors and the biggest issue regarding the steam locos was making certain the fire was set properly and the right amount of pressure was loaded before starting the loco, I started the steam locos on a connected but dedicated stretch of track to get the oil and water out of the cold cylinders. Generally speaking the locos ran clean when they are hot and not drained of steam (using too much and the loco stalls). I only had issues when guests tried running the locos and did not grasp the concept of live steam. I had a few spills but was able to wipe them up quickly. The Markelin 1 electric locos could power through all but the worst spills. Batteries are a real pain, they always run out when you are at a critical moment! I would try it without batteries and see how it goes.
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Joined: 26/08/2012(UTC) Posts: 13 Location: Dorset
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That's a very interesting observation, thanks
Mind you, I'm only thinking of buying one Accucraft live steamer ( a flying Scotsman ) and they are supposed to be pretty good at containing their oil.
I take your point about batteries but it would save a lot of wiring and I know that Household Management won't appreciate me digging trenches for conduit across her lawn !
Before making any decisions I'll do some experiments with batteries and see what running time I can get with various locos.
Do I go for modern LiPos, cheaper and safer NiCads or old fashioned burglar alarm batteries ?
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Joined: 15/03/2003(UTC) Posts: 9,593 Location: Australia
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Personally, I think that this is a great idea. Running wires all over the yard has little appeal for me..
The problem with Lipos might the voltages.. Because they come in "cells" you jump from 11v to 14.8v.. From memory the jump is 3.7v per cell set.. I use them in my 1:72 scale Type 45 destroyer (2.2m long with twin engines and weighs 20kg) - it runs for hours on the Lipos and it does not have the weight problems of equivalent capacity lead/acid batteries.. |
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Joined: 08/11/2005(UTC) Posts: 3,528 Location: Mullerup, 4200 Slagelse
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I have been planning battery operated 1-gauge garden railroad for a long time; but not gotten very far I have done a few tests, and also have a battery operated MS1 for my test stand. ( Very handy at shows etc. ) The simple solution: A 18V Dewalt battery; I already have a lot of battery operated Dewalt power tools, and thus also several 18V batteries and chargers. 4 Ah batteries last for a long time, and are easily exchanged. BTW, I have an Accucraft live steam loco, and it makes a short-circuit between the wheels, so I can't run it at the same time as I run my track powered electrical locos. Per. P.S: "Games on Track" can work battery operated too; but is still only DCC, and most of my locos are equipped with standard Märklin decoders. I have talked several times to the manufacturer of "Games on Track", and he is working on a MM / MFX solution. http://www.gamesontrack.com/ |
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 2 users liked this useful post by Purellum
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