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How to Wire Lionel Fastrack

Lionel̵7;s Fastrack for O-scale (size ratio of 1:48) is meant to be an easy to set up and take down system, yet still look realistic enough for the model railroad hobbyist. It is a three-rail sectional track system that runs on alternating current, unlike two-rail tracks that run on direct current. Like any model railroad, extensive layouts can include complicated wiring. But the basic wiring to make a train go is simple.

Things You'll Need

Model railroad transformer for AC
Double Pole, Double Throw toggle switches (optional)
Single Pole, Single Throw toggle switches (optional)

Instructions

- 1
  Connect wires to the underside of a section of track and attached ̶0;ballast roadbed.̶1; One connection goes to the center rail, the other to an outer rail. Some sections come with wires already attached.
- 2
  Run the wires to a transformer, such as the Lionel CW-80, though you can use non-Lionel railroad transformers. Higher wattage transformers can more easily power larger layouts.
- 3
  Insulate ̶0;blocks̶1; of track to allow you to run two trains at once. Each block on a mainline should be long enough to hold one train of the length you plan to run. Insulate the rails by leaving a gap between sections, or using insulated connector pins.
- 4
  Wire each block to a Double Pole, Double Throw toggle switch. Each pole goes to a separate controller on the transformer, while the center connectors are wired to the track.
- 5
  Insulate one rail in sidings to store a locomotive while another is on the mainline. Wire the connections for the rail on either side of the insulated gap to a Single Pole, Single Throw toggle switch that allows you to cut off power when you choose.

Model Railroads