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Post by zscalehobo on Feb 2, 2016 19:49:44 GMT -5
For those of you using Rokuhan track with their power connectors, what are you using for power distribution under the layout? On my layout, I would imagine I will have 8-12 power cords and I am looking for the best way to connect them all together. Photos would be awesome if possible. Thanks for your help. Easiest, but not most cost effective, is to use A029 ... Rokuhan's Power Feeder Y-Cable.
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Post by markm on Feb 2, 2016 19:59:22 GMT -5
An issue to be aware of is that you lose a small amount of power across each Y-Cable or extension cable and after going through the 4 or 5 connector pairs it can become significant. Currently I only need to use a single Y, but I plan to build is a distribution block: 4-8 connectors on a PCB. The connectors are a standard item, I just can't find my notes on who manufactures and distributes it.
Mark
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Post by markm on Feb 6, 2016 20:09:53 GMT -5
Dave, Looking at the Rokuhan site today, I noticed an option for you, the A016 Accessory Power Terminal. It's basically what I described in my previous post. Although it's called "accessory" the distribution sockets are generalized enough to be used with track power as well. I'm not sure of the connector on the cord, but worst comes to worst, you buy an extra power cable and swap the shells.
Mark
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Post by dave on Feb 6, 2016 21:51:42 GMT -5
Hey Mark,
I have seen terminal and unfortunately, the plugs on the lighting wires are much small than on the power and switch wires. Those larger plugs are a version of Molex connectors. I really wish they would make a terminal for power as well.
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Post by emaley on Feb 7, 2016 9:13:00 GMT -5
Have a look at this Miniatronics 12-Position Prewired Power Distribution Block. A bit pricey, but can do what you want. You can also do it yourself with regular terminal blocks if you jumper the connections.
Trey
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Post by dave on Feb 7, 2016 10:02:45 GMT -5
Thanks for the heads up Trey....I will take a look at those.
I ordered one of the Rokuhan pin removal tools and once I get that, I will keep searching for a good solution for the power distribution.
Thank you for all of the input and I would welcome more; I will keep the group updated with what I find.
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Post by dave on Mar 3, 2016 21:22:12 GMT -5
Good evening...has anyone purchased one of the new Rokuhan double crossovers yet and if so, how well does it work?
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Post by dave on Mar 4, 2016 20:31:05 GMT -5
Here is a start on my layout...the outside loop is 270mm and the inside is 245mm. I will put either a single crossover (two turnouts together) or a double crossover in the bottom center on the mainline. If you notice, I can expand the layout width by adding some straights on the two sides. I thought about stretching it that way by putting a 220mm double bridge on the left side. I can add more turnouts on the inside loop if necessary. I have been thinking about leaving one end open for a Rokuhan turntable but by the time you buy a couple of roundhouses, you've spent $400 or more. I would like to hear some suggestions of what to put in the middle. Thanks for your help. Attachments:
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Post by dazed on Mar 4, 2016 21:47:59 GMT -5
Dave, looking good! That's looks very familiar...Rokuhan on Pink Foam....lol.
I think you said you were leaning toward a midwest theme. I would probably have a few industrial tracks. Maybe a grain elevator and possibly a corn syrup loadout. Another option could be LPG dealer, and I would definitely have one of the tracks also function as a "team track" with a ramp where you could unload, say, farm implement or oilfield equipment and supplies. And the offset to the other side I would do a smalltown USA downtown scene. Anyway, just some ideas.
I might also put a passenger station somewhere, to have a spot for your TRE set to stop and maybe Amtrak too.
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Post by nscaler711 on Mar 5, 2016 1:04:17 GMT -5
I will just leave this here....
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Post by dave on Mar 5, 2016 8:05:27 GMT -5
N711,
What is the size of your layout foam and your track radius? I like that you put the loco and cars on there to get an idea of the size of those compared to the layout size.
I really wish that Rokuhan made some larger curved track, like 295mm or 320mm. There is really a gap between the 270mm and 490mm.
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Post by markm on Mar 5, 2016 11:55:15 GMT -5
Dave, The Rokuhan flex track does a decent job on the >270mm radii.
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Post by nscaler711 on Mar 6, 2016 0:30:14 GMT -5
It is 18" x 36" I used 195mm curves. I have enough space to run around two 60' cars, where those two 50' are sitting, the SD75M has been replaced by the GP38. It does give me something to do though its like a small switching puzzle...
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Post by emaley on Apr 2, 2016 20:52:59 GMT -5
I finally got some power to my tracks today. I tested the Rokuhan double crossover and it works very well. No issues with any of my locos as far as the crossover, but my small Rokuhan steam loco is just to light. It has a bit of an issue with traction with the 3 passenger cars. My AZL RDC performed like a champ, as always, through the crossover fast and slow. The Shinkansen also was a champ even at warp speed. MTL SD40-2's are fubar for some reason. Binding in the trucks when it has weoght on wheels, but motor runs fine without weight on it. I've had the trucks apart and cleaned then several times, but these have been a problem from the get go. Even the old MTL F-7's grind right along. Anyway, the double crossover is great.
Also ordered some molex pins. The .062 pins fit both the Rokuhan and Kato plugs. Making any custom wires should be a snap and you can reuse the existing plugs.
Trey
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Post by dave on Jun 21, 2016 16:37:45 GMT -5
Good evening...here is my latest iteration of my layout and I really want some opinions. I am not sure what I will do on the inside yet. Please...all comments, criticisms, etc. The straight track on the rear is going to be my point to point for an RDC so I left a little room for some buildings. The layout is about 29" x 58" and uses 245mm and 270mm curves. Thanks for your help. Attachments:
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