Alligator clips

Dan Padova posted:

Here's a thought.  How about using alligator clips to attach wires to bus wires ?   It would make it much simpler to alter any wiring that needed to be changed from one location to another.  

For temporary wiring, that might work, at least long enough to decide if your wiring is working the way you want. However, I would not want to deal with the intermittent nature of the clips on a permanent layout. If you could tweak them to have extra spring tension, that might help

I thought of suitcase connectors but I don't think they are as moveable.  

Agree w/GEOPEG on this. I use alligator clips attached to an old 1033 transformer for testing operation of accessories, engines, etc. before hard-wiring anything.

I've used suitcase connectors in the past and had some issues with them. I now use T- connectors that haven't given me any problems for far. But you're right, suitcase and T- connectors are a more permanent solution. You can always pull the T-connector off, but if using insulated wire, you'd probably want to cover the pierced area with some electrical tape or that black liquid insulating material that comes in a car that can be brushed on.

Lots of different solutions..........see which works best for you.

"......comes in a can.......".  Not in a car, at least not usually.🙂

I use WAGO connectors for flexibility:

I think the alligator clips are a great idea. 

I purchased probably 3 packs of test wires with insulated alligator clips on both ends from Radio Shack in the past, this is an efficient way to check track soldered leads, uncoupler functioning , signal wiring and engine wiring. Once checked and verified wire connections are either soldered, wire nutted, or routed to a barrier strip or connector block.

I have them attached to a 12 volt wall wart use them all the time to test lights.

Joe

bmoran4 posted:

I use WAGO connectors for flexibility:

Wow, they're even better than the push in type.  Do we have to go to the UK to get them.....LOL

I've gotten the WAGO from online sources preportedly from domestic sources.

Wagos are great - since we have temporary, basement floor layouts I use the 221 series connectors extensively.  And they're great for any house wiring projects as well.  Last time I bought them (and the holders, which are harder to find) it was from Future Electronics - https://www.futureelectronics.com/

cf. also https://ogrforum.com/...ried-wago-lever-nuts

I use alligator clips extensively on my layout.  Very dependable.

Wagos at Amazon and the big auction site. Make sure they have the Wago logo on them, if not they are knock offs.

Steve