What is the best gauge or type of wire to use for a large layout. Should I use a certain type for the track . Do long runs need a certain gauge to work the best. also where is the best place to buy . thanks.
Timothy for track you should use some kind of Code 83. For wire the larger the better.
Hope this helps,
Pierce
Tim - Use #18 or larger (#14-#16 if you use DCC) for the bus wiring - that’s the wire running under the layout from the power supply to the tracks. Then use a smaller size, #20 or #22, as feeder wires, i.e. the wires going from the bus wires up through the layout surface to the track. A good source for the bus wires would be a Menard’s or Home Depot, amd maybe a Radio Shack or an auto supply house for the smaller sizes.
Hi TIm;
Sources: the cheapest Home Depot, Lowes, Menards or similar.
Sizes: for track power buses 12 or 14 guage is preferred. For jumper to the rail from the buses, less than a foot long 26 or 28, up to 18" 24 guage. For turnouts, use large wire for solenoid systems, 18guage is fine for constantly on motor driven types. The smaller the number, the bigger the wire.
Type: “Romax” is fine for buses and CHEAP. Speaker wire is also very good, cheaper because of the lack of UL listing. DO NOT USE SPEAKER WIRE FOR 110VAC applications.
Connections: solder or crimp on are fine.
Nigel