Hi Folks,
I am considering the idea of placing some dead track sections [controlled by an ON-OFF toggle switch] at high risk locations [crossings, tunnel exits, etc.] to safe guard against a collision between a continuous running train [unmonitored] and any other train. I am thinking that it would be ideal to have the ability to stop the unmonitored train by cutting the power ahead of its engine(s). For example, within a continuous loop, a train exits a tunnel in a high traffic area on the layout. On most occasions, that's not a problem. However, there may be times when I would like the option to stop that train just as it exits the tunnel given my uncertainty as to what may be taking place at that location. Once all concerns have been dismissed, I would then start that unmonitored train on its continuous run, once again.
My questions:
(1A) If you have these dead track sections [as described above] and an engine pulling a train hits this section when the power has been cut [toggle OFF], is this bad for the engine and/or the cars and their couplers?
(1B) If so, how do you safely stop an unmonitored train with one or more engines?
Many Thanks! Matt