Reversing Loop Controllers

[taholmes160]

HI Folks:

Due to my layout design, I will end up with 3 reversing loops -- 2 are currently in existence, and right now I am using DPDT toggle switches to control them -- they work, but ANNOYING.  I know there are automatic units out there from many manufacturers.  Im not asking whats out there, I am asking for RECOMMENDATIONS as to which ones you like and think work best.

I am running N scale, hopefully eventually 2 - 3 trains at a time, some with 2 -3 locomotives at a time, I am currently using a NCE Powercab, which I hope to upgrade to an SB5 soon and eventually radio control

Thanks for your input

TIM
San Luis and Rio Grande

[RBrodzinsky]

The PSX-AR is one of the best.  I have never had to think about them after installing.

[rodsup9000]

Ive been using 2 Digitrax AR1 since they came out in 2003 and 2 MRC auto reverse modules since about 2002 without any problems. Both are cheap and work. Both of them use a mechanical relay as some of the newer ones use a solid state relay.

I'll have to agree that from what I've read on the PSX-AR, it's one of the best.

[jdcolombo]

PSX-AR

Using it to match polarity on entry track to turntable to bridge track.  Works like a charm.

John C.

[Ughcat35]

I have seen many us the AR1s with success. In my case I was helping my uncle with 2 reverse loops with 2 AR1s. I had them both working but a couple days after that they were hit and miss. Sure if I had more time on his layout I could make them more reliable but I don’t have that time. So I suggested he try the PSX, So we installed them in their place and they are working fine now. No experience with other ARs.

[C855B]

I use the Tam Valley Dual Frog Juicer in four locations on my layout. A few folks here use the Frog Juicers as their turnout frog controllers, but the dual version is configurable as a reverser. Works flawlessly for me, just set and forget. Admittedly I pay attention to reversing section gap locations and don't park locos or illuminated cars over the gap.

... AR1s. I had them both working but a couple days after that they were hit and miss. Sure if I had more time ...

Frankly, I keep reading about this with the AR1s - yeah, they'll work if you fiddle with settings in your operating environment. Plus I'm not enamored with mechanical relays in this application, too slow on the uptake. PSX-AR and Frog Juicers are solid-state and response is measurable in microseconds.

[Smike]

I will strongly second the Tam Valley juicer. Rock solid and it just works.  I got an AR1 once, its garbage and a real PITA to keep it triggering at the right voltage. I'm sure its fine for HO stuff that draws a bit more current, but for n scale its near useless.

[narrowminded]

My current layout doesn't have a reversing loop but does have over a dozen switches, all equipped with Tam Valley juicers by the original builder.  The function and requirements are the same as for a reverser so I'm adding this as an up vote for them.  I've never touched them and they work flawlessly.  You forget that they're even there.

[eric220]

I had a Digitrax AR-1 take down my whole layout. I literally had to hit it, presumably to un-stick the relay, to fix it.

[cbroughton67]

I'll second the recommendation for the PSX-AR. They're bulletproof. One feature I love is that it will automatically throw (via Tortoise) the turnout when the polarity changes, so you don't have to think about it when you exit the loop. That's a great feature when you have guest operators. Easy to install and reliable.

Chris

[railnerd]

PSX-AR