I,m putting together a layout using MTH Real Trax. I do not want to use those unsightly MTH lockons, can I solder to the brass tabs under the track? will the heat melt the plastic pins that secure the contacts? Or, can I solder to the side of the rails on the top?..any suggestions…thx…tom.
Hi Tom,
I see no need at all to solder the lockons. I have several hunded feet of the track and not one problem with conductivity, I do install screws through the track every few feet into plywood and that has worked well for me the last two years. Don’t turn this into more work for yourself, not necessary.
Jon
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Thanks Jon, but I don’t want to use the lockons…
Tom,
I have to use several lockons for my around-the-room Christmas layout to ensure adequate voltage around the loop, so you may need several feeds. Although I use lockons for power, I did make some insulated track and soldered wires to the tabs without problems. Using a soldering gun, I tinned the wire, then the tab, and then soldered the two together. You might want to consider a heat sink. Not the little one like Radio Shack sells, but something like needle-nosed Vise Grips. As long as you don’t heat too slowly, the heat sink will draw the heat away before it can travel to the plastic.
As Chris said, just use a heat sink. You should have no problems as long as you’ve had at least some prior experience with soldering. Like you, I’m not a big fan of those large and very obvious RealTrax lockons.
One additional tip: As you assemble your layout, be sure to use those small plastic clips that MTH makes for keeping RealTrax sections tightly locked together. They work very well and are extremely easy to install.
OK, now I get it. I misunderstood the question. I too don’t care for the large lockon’s and I may do something different the next time.
Jon
Everyone, thanks for the advice, you are always helpful…thx…tom.