Well I just finished lay’n my roadbed down and I’m trying to decide which is gonna be the easiest way to wire my layout. The layout is a 4X8, that has been cut into 4X2 sections. For this layout I’m not gonna be run’n any kind of DCC stuff I think that would be a bit of overkill for a small pike. I’m gonna set it up with a standard block wiring scheme. I just wonder due to the fact that it is in sections if I should wire each piece of track or if I should depend on the connection of the removalable sections of track between the layout sections. I think I know the answer but I have noticed that the great amount of knowlegde on here, and wondered if anyone would have a better suggetion.
PS How do you post pics on this forum…do you have to have your photos hosted on the net somewhere before they will show up here. <-----Like So…Thanks
First question - how many trains do you intend to run at once? One, two? If one only, I would wire each 2’ x 4’ section as one to a terminal strip on the bottom, then connect all the terminal strips to the transformer (you will need to make sure you get the right rail connected to the correct post (especially from curves/loops). I’m a believer in connecting the wire directly to the track, not relying on the rail joiners to carry current. Color coding the wire will make it easy to make sure you get it all right.
For two or more trains, it begins to get a little more complicated.
I hadn’t thought of the terminal idea…so I should wire each section by it’s self connecting to the strip. Then runn’n to a main strip and connect them the control panel. Yes I plan on running two locos on the layout. But I think it would be easier to have a block where I can cut the power and have the loco sitting on a siding and then run the other. I plan on soldering the feeder wire directly to the rail. I knew I came to the right spot with this question Thanks…the little hamster is run’n hard on his wheel now…hehe
Thanks
Brad