So PF, is it of any use for realistic operation?

[Locomotive Annie]

No reason not to use PF motors and BBB wheels with 12v, just run the track power on three quarter power and you'll be fine. Connect the motors via your '70s pickup bricks.

True enough B n B I thought I'd give PF a try during the building stage and see how it works, but more than likely add in 12volt pickup bricks as well for normal running. It wouldn't be too hard to fit a resistor into the loco's circuits to protect the motors when running off track power.

[bricks n bolts]

True enough B n B I thought I'd give PF a try during the building stage and see how it works, but more than likely add in 12volt pickup bricks as well for normal running. It wouldn't be too hard to fit a resistor into the loco's circuits to protect the motors when running off track power.

If you have full PF you can then wire up the pickup bricks to recharge a Lipo as it's moving around

EDIT: You'd only need one pickup brick for such operation, rather than two, as you don't need to worry about dead spots

Edited February 26, 2013 by bricks n bolts

[Locomotive Annie]

If you have full PF you can then wire up the pickup bricks to recharge a Lipo as it's moving around

EDIT: You'd only need one pickup brick for such operation, rather than two, as you don't need to worry about dead spots

Now that was something I hadn't really considered, - being able to charge the battery pack from the conductor rail, - which does put a different complexion on things. I've still got my doubts, but at least I'm willing to give PF a trial run.

[peterab]

Now that was something I hadn't really considered, - being able to charge the battery pack from the conductor rail, - which does put a different complexion on things. I've still got my doubts, but at least I'm willing to give PF a trial run.

There's a really good article on that in one of the Railbricks issues, and a similar discussion in the archives here. You get the ability to have more functions on your train (independent lights, doors etc) and the benefits of remote control, but the hassle of recharging is removed by fixed track power. The track doesn't even need to be fully powered, you could in principle just have a section of your depot powered (say a coaling tower), then you could go through prototypical movements, always having to return to refuel after set periods etc :-)

It's a bit easier just doing a portion with 9V, because the 12V pick-ups will get stuck on unpowered crossings and points, but there may be a clever way around that too.

Edited February 27, 2013 by peterab

[Locomotive Annie]

That's a really good idea Peterab having loco servicing movements to the depot so a loco can recharge. I don't think I will have to many problems around points and crossings as most of them will have the 12volt conductor rails fitted as all my smaller locos will be staying with the 12volt system.

There was one operational aspect that I forgot to mention, - the logging branch. This is going to have a fairly challenging gradient because most of the logging trams here in New Zealand did have steep gradients. Basically I want the 12volt locos' ability to climb which is why the locos built to work this branch, the single Fairlie, the small Victorian 0-6-0 and the 'almost' Climax geared loco, are all 12volt locos. None of the trains operating on the branch will be long ones, three wagons plus brake van would be the usual load, but it should be interesting operationally with brake van shunting movements as well as the occasional banking assistance being provided as necessary.

[Luke_likes_Lego]

What I like about the way you started this thread is that it sums up how (I think) we all should approach the question of:

PF vs. 9V vs 12V vs VHS vs Beta etc.

ie. they're all different, each have their Pros and Cons.....but you've chosen the one the one that works for you.

I've moved from 12V to PF as I like the remote 'wirelessness', the cheaper cost and enjoy the challenge of trying to make things fit .....and begrudgingly cop the loss of space, inability to de-couple due to battery connections and a cornucopia of rechargeable batteries ....but that's just me.

One of my favourite things about 9V and 12V is that a PF can run on them without conversion ... can't say that about my precious PF!!

Cheers,

LLL