recently i started in model trains. no experience in the "n" scale. i bought a complete layout that was slightly damaged. in trying to repair, i found a small circuit that is connected to a "loop". it appears to have diodes arranged in a full wave rectifier and a dpdt relay plus other components. two pairs of wires connect track across insulator track connectors. applying dc to the track causes the relay to click on and off. if i try to run an engine it sits on the track and changes directions, forward and backward. what is the circuit for? help.
97corvette
I have no idea other then maybe an auto reverse unit. Was this from a DCC powered layout or DC?
thanks for your response. i don't know what the operation was. the only controls i got with the layout was a control panel for the sidings. i suspect it was not a dcc
From your description it is an 'Auto-reverser' for the reverse loop and should be able to work with DC but it is more than likely meant for DCC operation. If you are not planning to use DCC you can change the circuit out with a double pole / double throw toggle to control train direction going into and coming out of the reversing section.
http://www.outsidetrains.com/info/reverse.html
Explanation with illustrations.