Lionel 140 Banjo Signal, wired using an isolated rail with track power!

This is a simple / basic / entry level video to show how to wire up model train accessories utilizing an insulated rail and track power. As stated in the video, I recommend to only wire lower power consumption accessories if your garden is conventionally powered (via track transformer). When wiring solenoid activated accessories to the track (crossing gates etc. ) your motive power will lose power when the accessories are activated. This does not apply if you are using a command system (TMCC / Legacy for example) for the track is at a constant voltage.

Running transformers In-Phase is also recommended by Lionel for running high power accessories with insulated rails (will do a test video in the future)

This step by step DIY requires a hand full of tools and supplies to complete the job -
Saw - cut / gap track
Needle Nose Pliers - un-crimp ties from rail
Flathead Screwdriver - help pry ties from rail
Wire Cutters / Strippers - Strip/ cut wire
Soldering Iron / gun and "Lead Free" Electrical Solder - Always remember to wash your hands when working solder / lead.
Wire - Used Atlas 16 Gauge model / train wire
Electrical Tape - Used as rail insulator

Have fun and happy railroading!

[rjproductions]

Wow, going back to this video really shows how different it was till now.

[johnczyzewski]

Nix; Lackawanna John great job on the video on installing trac power to a none power trac . l use Lionel super -o from 1957 . Again great video. . John Czyzewski.

[robertnielsen]

John, you're right of course but taping along the entire section of rail would be a time saver, instead of insulating every tie separately. For me I save balasting as the last thing I do after all scenery etc.is completed around the track area.

[mootsym]

Thanks for the video- really well explained. I'm going to try doing this with the isolated track, but powering the accessory with a transformer so it has it's own current separate from the track. I've been seeing videos that the transformer powering the accessory needs to be in phase with the transformer powering the track.. I'm not quite sure how to make sure the transformers are in phase with each other.

[edwardokum]

What types of accessories would this not work on?

[scottmelton]

I'm interested to know if the Marx "clip-on" insulated rail cap was effective. It would be a lot easier than making an insulated rail, but did it create problems such as derailment?