The Atlantic and Southern Build Thread Continued, Part 4

[ACL1504]

The DCC Power Adapter isn't necessary but I suggest you get it as it will make life much easier when installing the Squealer.



The adapter provides/converts power from the DCC track power to the adapter. More on this in a few more posts.

The instructions suggest drilling a 3/8" hole through the track and between the ties. I did this and can tell you the 3/8" is to big. A smaller hole will work just as well. I'll do it on the second motion detector I install.

[ACL1504]

I used a paper towel and wrapped it around the motion detector so I could wedge it in the drilled hole.



The next photo shows the sensor wedged in the hole. I installed it at the height of the ties. I then replaced the three ties.

[ACL1504]

Here is how I wired the adapter. The red wire is pos. and the white wire is neg.

[ACL1504]

I then wired the power to the left side of the adapter as shown below.



I wired the red and white wires (on the left) to the track buss.

Here is how it looks with the power applied from the track buss.



The green light tells me it is functioning properly and ready to roll.


I'll leave it out until the group can see it. Later next week I'll attach it to the underside of the bench work.

I'll also do a short video of it operating..

Done for today.

[PRR Modeler]

You have almost convinced me that I need 3 of them Tom! The power converter is a must have.

[friscomike]

Howdy Tom,

The squealer is an interesting addition to your layout. Where are you locating the sensors on the layout, i.e., where would wheels squeal?

Have fun,
mike

[cuse]

Tom, 

The marker lights are fantastic and now, the "Squealer"?...that is some next level stuff (as always). Can't wait to check it out.

John

[ACL1504]

You have almost convinced me that I need 3 of them Tom! The power converter is a must have.

Curt,

Now that you've seen it in person, I'll bet you do get a couple.

Tom

[ACL1504]

Howdy Tom,

The squealer is an interesting addition to your layout. Where are you locating the sensors on the layout, i.e., where would wheels squeal?

Have fun,
mike

Mike, Howdy,

It is a neat little sound addition for sure. I located this one on the 42" radius curve going into the passenger station.

Tom 

[ACL1504]

John,

Thanks for the kind comment on the markers. The Squealer gives us a little extra railroad sound on the layout.

You are welcome anytime you are in the area.

Tom

[ACL1504]

This morning I worked on adding two sections of clear polycarbonate plexiglass around the roundhouse area. Hopefully, this will prevent future breakage of details and folks leaning on the edge of the layout.



I cut a strip 47.5" long and 6.5" wide. The 6.5" covers the delicate steams pipes coming out of the rear of the roundhouse.

[ACL1504]

I made sure the plexiglass was level prior to marking where is was to be added to the fascia.



To secure the glass to the fascia I used #6, 3/4" sheet metal screws and #8 flat washers. Why sheet metal screws? I couldn't find #6 fine thread wood screws.



I spilled some out to have easy access to them when needed.

[ACL1504]

I removed the plastic cover from the glass on the rear and then reattached it to the fascia. I drilled a small hole on the glass but not all the way through. The sheet metal screw will pull its way through the plexiglass and into the Masonite fascia.



I then pealed back the front protective cover and secured the plexiglass to the fascia. It was a nice tight fit.

[ACL1504]

Prior to securing more on the fascia, I again made sure it was level.



I worked my way around and the one side was finished.

[ACL1504]

I repeated the process on the other side. I used my 4ft level to ensure both sections of plexiglass were at the same level.



I also made a mark where this section will be added when reattached and secured.