Running Multiple EPL Motors from a Single Decoder Channel

Ralphmp

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Hope this is the right place for this.

I vaguely remember reading some while ago that people have connected multiple EPL point motors to the same output channel on a LGB or Massoth 4 channel decoder. The example I think I recall was to make a pair of points operate together ensuring a route such as a crossover from one main line to another is automatically set/unset in the correct (and safe) manner.

I'm interested in the long-term performance of the decoder when doing this as I have a situation like the one above, and it would save me a decoder channel on one of my 4-channel decoders to link 2 points to a single channel and potentially help me avoid buying another decoder.

Any feedback from people using this approach would be welcome. Thanks in advance.
 
The technical specifications in the manual for the Massoth 4K II Switch Decoder, #8156101 says "Function Outputs max. 1.5A per Output (2 EPL drives)". So at least this decoder should be able to operate 2 EPL drives on each output without a problem. And, after checking the website, the newest Märklin/LGB 4 circuit switch decoder, No. 55525 also has the same amperage limits as the Massoth decoder, 3A total, 1.5A per function output. Don't know about the earlier decoders. The manual I have for the LGB 55025 does not provide info on current output limits.
 
I have driven two point motors from a Massoth single channel decoder and one output of a Massoth 4 channel decoder, no problems in either case.
 
Yes, I do the same, especially on cross-overs. I will run both motors from the same decoder output.

I set the operating pulse to 7 so that both motors get a good kick....
 
Yes, I do the same, especially on cross-overs. I will run both motors from the same decoder output.

I set the operating pulse to 7 so that both motors get a good kick....

Same never had any trouble.
 
I've ran LGB and Massoth 4 channel decoders switching pairs of EPL point drives for many years without any problems. The decoder pulse on both is at the default setting.
 
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