Parallel Tracks and DCC

Model Railroader Layouts and layout building
1

On my new 15 x 23 shelf layout, I am running parallel tracks all away around the walls. Presently, it is a point to point with an eventual section that will tie it all to gether for continous running. I will be dropping feeders down from each track to attach to the bus line. Can a single set of 12 gauge bus wires service both parallel tracks? I really didn’t want to run the bus from end to another and then double back to tie in the the second track and associate branch tracks.

Any help would be appreciated.

L Boyd

2

No worries, mate! One set of #12 bus wires is sufficient. Make them 2 different colors, make all your #18-20 drops 3-4 feet apart with the same 2 colors. Use suitcase connectors and connect like colors to the bus. With DCC you’ll be fine as each loco decoder responds only to its own commands. Don’t make a loop of the bus wires, just put your command station at about the middle and let the bus go out in both directions. Enjoy!

3

John, thanks for the quick response.

Larry