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7-Plus-NGM Digest June 2010
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Date: Sat, 05 Jun 2010 20:09:40 -0000
From: "scale_7_8ths"
Subject: Wiring diagram for RMI speeder
Hi Group;
I really enjoy this group and am learning a lot about trains here. Usually I just lurk. You seem to be a nice bunch of helpful guys.
I started building a 7.5" gauge track last April (2009). It's a small loop of about 240 feet with a siding to park the train on when not in use. No shed yet, just a tarp. Have a couple of old 5' wooden flat cars and a 6' flatcar with 3 boat seats to ride on, behind the engine. I have an old beat-up cannonball boxcab, but it runs good.
I also picked up a used RMI speeder a while back. It did not run because a bunch of wires were disconnected and the batteries were shot. I can hook-up some wires directly to the motors from a battery and ride it around.
One speed - no speed control, both directions. I need to know how it's wired. I have contacted RMI several times and they say they will get back to me, but never do. Maybe they don't want my business?
What I would like to ask is if anyone here has a wiring diagram for this speeder. I would really appreciate any help so I can get it running again.
Thank you; Dan
Michigan
U.S.A.
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Date: Sat, 5 Jun 2010 14:26:10 -0700
From: "Boyd Butler"
Subject: Re: Wiring diagram for RMI speeder
Hope that you have better luck than most as ever who wired it is how most are done as I have one. Best way is to find another one somewhere close and us it to wire with. Service is not there middle name just taking your money
is there first.
Boyd soon to be a resident close to Train Mountain
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Date: Sat, 5 Jun 2010 21:13:51 -0800
From: "Charlie Meinershagen-Susan Weale"
Subject: Re: Wiring diagram for RMI speeder
Boyd,
I acquired an electric switcher that had been converted to a solid state controller from RMI, which was actually supplied by Dynamic Controls, Ltd., a New Zealand company. RMI doesn't use this brand of controller any more. I had to do a little research to track down the make and model of the controller, programmer, and the circuit diagrams.
Contact Dynamic Controls through their USA distributor located in Ohio. It's all on their internet website. Call me if you have any problem finding what you need.
Charlie Meinershagen
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Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2010 13:51:18 -0800
From: "Charlie Meinershagen-Susan Weale"
Subject: Re: Wiring diagram for RMI speeder
Dan,
Is your control panel labeled "RMI Model 21 Control"? Also look at the Mft. and Mod # on the controller module itself. Mine is a Dynamic Controls, Model DS100AB. You will also need ($) the programmer that plugs into the controller to adjust the operating parameters.
Dynamic Controls, of America
North Ulmstead, Ohio
(440)-979-0657
The engineers there are very helpful. The company makes all kinds of controllers for electric wheel chairs, 12 & 24v. Good luck, I hope I have been of some help.
Charlie Meinershagen
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Date: Sun, 06 Jun 2010 20:07:46 -0400
From: KA2TTY@AOL.COM
Subject: Re: Wiring diagram for RMI speeder
Dan,
I wish you the best of luck on trying to "figger" out the wiring for your speeder.
While I would love to say that Boyd's idea of finding a local RMI speeder, and then comparing the wiring is a sure-fire idea, the realist in me says it isn't.
Case in point...Train Mountain has about a dozen RMI trolleys, and from what I gather, they are not exactly alike. There are changes in one thing, another thing, or the whole darn thing.
There is a gentleman whose Sisyphus-like mission during some of the Kitsap Work Weeks over the previous years was to get all the trolleys ready for the upcoming run season. In addition to getting the batteries back into shape, he also to troubleshoot the little darlings...which is where the "fun" starts. Mind you, this man is no slouch intellectually, (he's trained commercial airline pilots) but was so stymied at times that he was reduced to such profuse and profound fits of cursing that I thought I was back in the Merchant Marines!
There is an unwritten agreement among several members of the Kitsap Work Week that, if any of us should have a financial windfall that borders on the obscene, Trolley #12 will be bought, and given to the poor soul, with the understanding that any and all funding will be made available to him to "permanently fix" it as he sees fit...barring (large) nuclear weapons.
From everything I've heard, I can attest to RMI's customer service (or lack thereof.)
Quite frankly, it may just be easier to disconnect everything, throw the wiring as far as it will go, and then do your own wiring. It'll probably save you some gray hairs, and possibly, your sanity.
Regards,
Erik
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Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2010 03:17:16 +0000 (UTC)
From: Lineshaft@comcast.net
Subject: Re: Wiring diagram for RMI speeder
Dan,
I just purchase a used RMI Center cab project.
With it came three laminated wiring diagrams.
It appears to apply to any (older) RMI unit.
The diagram shows how to use 2,4,6 batteries.
How to build a single or double ended harness.
How to build a RMI 21 controller, or a RMI 2000 controller(w/Sound options).
Apparently the control modules use the same plug arrangement that they use female spade connectors to connect the harness to.
I just ordered a double ended harness for my engine rather that trying to buy the right cable and plugs required.
When I talked to RMI about the diagrams, they said they don't have them. (So what do they use to build them?)
So, I don't think they would be offended if I made a copy for you.
If you want, I will try to copy them.
If you call RMI again, and get a message machine, listen to the phone number for tech advice.
The guy I talked to was very helpful about controllers and modules etc. But like I said he had no bulid plans or wiring diagrams.
Dave Fontes
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Date: Sun, 6 Jun 2010 23:57:19 EDT
From: DRK2U@aol.com
Subject: Re: Wiring diagram for RMI speeder
Hi Erik;
Thanks for writing back. I am going to try and answer everybody that sent me a reply.
First, I already have some gray hairs and a gray beard to match.
Second, my sanity has been in question for some time now.
I am now retired and have a lot of time to mess with the thing. I am still a licensed electrician, never know when it might come in handy, so I keep it up to date. So, I think I should have a fair whack at trying to get it running again. Just hoped to make everything work like new & original.
Maybe I will be able to help you get the trolley working again for your friend, too. Who knows?
Trolleys are probably my most favorite type of train.
I will let you know how things turn out and send you any info to get that trolley running. It's a shame to have a neat toy and not be able to play with it.
Ohhhh...... I meant to say operate the model correctly !
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Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2010 00:04:26 EDT
From: DRK2U@aol.com
Subject: Re: Wiring diagram for RMI speeder
Hi Dave;
Sure, I would be very interested in a copy to work from. Sometimes, I do read the instructions.
Would you send it regular mail or email? I can send you some money to pay for the copying and shipping costs.
What works best for you is O.K. by me.
Thank you; Dan
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Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2010 20:14:16 +0000
From:
Subject: Re: Wiring diagram for RMI speeder
Hi Dan,
I have a genuine RMI wiring diagram for a speeder (yes they do exist). I got it almost 10 years ago from Paul Garin when he was with RMI. The diagram is about 2' wide by 3' long and done in color. I have found it very readable and accurate for my speeder. I am currently out of state and won't be home til the last week in June. If you would like to put it on your calendar to e-mail me a reminder the last week in June, I will be glad to call RMI and make sure they don't have a problem with my sending you a copy.
Bill Laird
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Date: Mon, 7 Jun 2010 21:08:04 +0000 (UTC)
From: Lineshaft@comcast.net
Subject: Re: Wiring diagram for RMI speeder
Dan,
I see Bill sent you a message that he has actual RMI speeder wiring diagrams.
You you still want a copy of mine?
Dave
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Date: Tue, 8 Jun 2010 10:04:33 +0200
From: "Johan P"
Subject: Re: Wiring diagram for RMI speeder
Hi Dave,
Could you possibly send me a copy of your drawings, please.I would really appreciate it.
Kind Regards,
Johan Pretorius
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Date: Thu, 24 Jun 2010 15:56:02 -0500
F rom: "Bill Laird"
Subject: Lobato Trestle on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic NG Railroad burned.
Lobato Trestle on the C&TS burned during Wednesday night under unknown circumstances. C&TS Fire Truck parked in Chama was inoperative (engine problems not fixed before starting the 2010 season). C&TS now running only from Antonito to Osher and return. Nothing running north out of Chama.
More information and photos may be found at
http://www.ngdeadgoatsaloon.com:80/
The official press release follows.
CHAMA, NM, -- The Lobato Trestle, second highest bridge on the 64-mile Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad, was damaged by a fire of undetermined origin Wednesday night, rendering it at least temporarily impassable by trains.
C&TSRR personnel and fire crews were at the scene into Thursday morning. It was initially unclear whether the main structure had suffered damage or whether the fire was confined to the wooden ties and framing of the roadbed over the steel-framed structure.
"This devastating event will force us to suspend routine operations out of the Chama Depot for an undetermined length of time," said Elmer Salazar, president and CEO of the railroad management company. "We will design alternative ride experiences for our passengers in the near term while doing everything possible to restore the trestle to full operational capacity as quickly as possible."
The fire was reported to the Chama Fire Department shortly after 11 p.m. Wednesday night. Fire crews and railroad workers rushed to the scene and worked through the night to extinguish the blaze.
"This is the most significant mishap to the track and right-of-way in all the 40 years the Cumbres and Toltec has been in operation," said Marvin Casias, C&TSRR general manager, who was among those on the scene through the night. "We will be better able to determine the extent of damage and to commence repairs in the light of day today."
As an initial interim measure, Chama passengers will be offered the option to be bused to Antonito, CO for the route starting on the Colorado end of the two-state line. The Cinder Bear Express children's train, scheduled for 11:00 am will run at the appointed time. Westbound Passenger Train Service from Antonito, Colorado remains intact, however, as a half way excursion to the routine midway lunch-stop Osier, Colorado with return to Antonito.
The Lobato Trestle, one of the scenic high points, is on the New Mexico side of the line, about 4 miles up the grade outside Chama. It carries the track over East Fork of Wolf Creek, flowing about 100 feet below.
"Our crews will work tirelessly until this trestle is restored to service," said Casias. "While we will complete the task as quickly as possible, we will not allow passenger trains back on the trestle until we are completely confident that it is restored to full operational capability."
The C&TSRR is celebrating its 40th year this summer. This setback comes as the C&TSRR management company continues its multi-year program to replace ties and ballast on the track to restore it to optimum operating capability. A total of 40,378 new ties have been installed over the duration of this project, with 64 miles of track resurfaced and lined. Bringing the track, locomotives and rolling stock up to top-notch condition has been a priority project of the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad Commission and the operating company, and has moved forward with generous funding from the states of New Mexico and Colorado, owners of the line. The rail line is a living history experience in steam-powered mountain narrow-gauge railroading, owned and preserved by the two states.
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Date: Thu, 24 Jun 2010 18:52:35 -0400
From: Arno Martens
Subject: Re: Lobato Trestle on the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic NG Railroad burned.
What a shame.
On my way from the Triennial to San Antonio I stayed in Chama last year.
I didn't have the time to stay for the ride but by the sheerest of coincidences I took the wrong road and ended up in Antonito for breakfast before pushing on going south.
--
Cheers,
Arno
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