Automatic Reverse Relay for Model Trains

How to install an automated Back and Forth reversing system on a point to point model train layout using an easily programmable Relay Board is described. Used for a train , Trolley or Locomotive.

[stevehughes]

Just made a setup that fits in a window sill for a Christmas Train, The reversing unit came with good Documentation, but nothing like watching a video. The segment in your video on using the program button I watched a half dozen times. Video was well done. Working on this in June to be ready for the Christmas season this year. Thanks.

[johnwaters]

Beautiful! Exactly what I was looking for at an amazingly low price. Very nicely done. Can't wait to give it a try!

[johnandanneschwab]

Thanks again. Just ordered a reversing circuit from your website. Your explanations, diagrams and notes are exceptional. Looking forward to installing it.

[jonmccauley]

Why is this not a standard kit option from Lionel? I was searching for something like this for a Christmas handcar I have. Just bought this kit from your site. Thanks! Now hopefully I can wire it up properly.🤔

[fromthedumpstertothegrave]

This is awesome! I've been toying with the idea of making a little diorama but don't have the space for a circuit. Love the idea of using two of these and having two straight lines going through a station back and forth. Would be a great amount of motion for a tiny layout :)

[gacj]

Great description ...fully explained .... If I get some courage, Id try it some day.

[minnesotaeerailroad]

We just ordered this off of eBay! We're excited!

[finnyzmeobmw]

Thank you so much. What a great help this video is. It's very much apriciated. 👍🏻 The relay is clicking away nicely here on the bread board temporary set up to the timings I desire. Now to get the lot onto the track. Again brilliant video. Thank you.

[gsegallis]

I used a 3rd diode and 100 uF capacitor to power the relay board Vin/GND pins with the same PWM voltage that goes to the P+/P- pins. Relay works fine from full power PWM (12V in my case) down to less than 1/3 full PWM. Besides not needing batteries, when I stop the train (i.e. 0V PWM), I don't hear the relay clicking.

[barryscottNEED]

I'm excited because I ordered this from you and it's on its way to me now. I'm using Kato N Scale track, is that OK or do I need to find a way to use the track sections you send?
I hope the instructions will explain where to solder the diodes (I presume at the joint between the last two sections at each end of the line) and how to program the systems for time delay.

[peterlutz]

Need one of these for the trolley running in the town of my layout.

[chuckpede]

Love the clarity of the instructions. Been looking for this for quite some time. Where can I find this kit for purchase? (I'm an N-scaler)

[johnandanneschwab]

Just what I was looking for! Can you tell me (1) will this work on a straight HO track that will be about 26 feet long, and (2) what size DC train controller would I need to make this work?
Thanks so much!

[lakeside]

Robert-
Using KATO N scale Unitrack. Any ideas how to not solder the diodes on the track? So i can modify the layout in the future without worry. ??

[RichRocketMan]

Wonderful video, Robert! Question: Is the relay simply reversing the polarity of the flow of electricity? In my train "village" set up, could I use this system for say a motor that causes a vehicle to be pulled down a road, stop, then be pulled back? The motor would be under the plywood table I have. I could use another battery to power a DC motor that pulls the car one direction and another 9 volt battery to control this relay. If this relay is simply switching polarity, the DC motor should reverse directions quite easily. Think this could work? Thanks!

[robmiller]

Robert, just received mine. When you estimate the run time. Ex mine is about 10ft of track at a slow speed. Say that would take 10sec. But you want it to sit in place for a few minutes. Do you hold the key down for that amount of time to program it?

[ramonpfister]

What are the specs of the diodes, there are many to choose from on amazon.

[TheErikam]

Hubby has been working on installing this all day...we get the trolley to go in one direction and stops but then once the relay kicks to go to reverse, the trolley doesn't move. Any idea what we did wrong?

[joshuaglassman]

This is the info I've been looking for. Not sure why it's not more easily accessible. Thank you so much. I assume this will work with Z scale, too? The 9v power source for the relay board has no influence on the track power, right? As long as I have the appropriate power to the rails I should be fine? Thanks!

[greathorton]

Can Hornby's locomotive still work, keep moving back and forth if installed HM7000 DCC Sound Decoder?