Extension wiring for a Fastrack switch

Bedrock16,

   Although it is possible I like something around 16-20 Gauge for my FT Switches if I need to elongate the run, it's easier to work with.  The new FasTrack Command Control switches eliminate my need however, I use the lighted manual controllers track side to identify FTCC switch numbers quickly, to operate them from the Legacy Cab2.  

PCRR/Dave

Thanks.  With 4 wires per switch, it seems easier and cheaper to use telephone cable than 16 gauge wire, given the virtually non-existent amps passing through the wire.  Unfortunately, I don't have any command control switches.

There's no reason to use such heavy wire Dave.  Telephone cable at #22 or even smaller will work fine, even for long distances.

I have used telephone wire and it works just fine.  It is ideal since the 4 wire colors match those of the Fastrack - Yellow, Black, Green and Red.  So as not to mess with the wiring connections to the switch or controller, I simply cut the switch wire in half and then spliced and soldered the extension to the middle between the two.

Rick

I have used phone cable to extend my fastrack switches. I simply remove the wire from under the switch (I mark above each terminal R, G, B, Y with sharpy marker to prevent any wiring errors), then connect the phone wire to the fastrack terminal and screw it down. I have used both solid copper round cable, and flat cable. I have done this with over 20 switches with no issues.

I then use a small plastic terminal block to connect the wires from the phone cable to the fastrack switch cable. You could also connect the wires directly then solder for a good connection. It is hard to have a only a twisted wire connection, as the fastrack wire strands are very small and delicate. When I solder, I try to use some plastic shrink tubing to protect the connection, although a little electrical tape will also do the job, it just looks a little sloppy.

Joe K

I use four conductor #20 to #24 or so, grey covered vinyl. I like stranded anyway. I put a 4 foot length on every switch to a euro strip under the table. Then I run from there to a line of strips where the toggles are for the switches with more 4 cond cable. From these strips, I run to the SC-2s and the toggle controllers. I find it very easy to change the layout if I want to with this system.

Try using the telephone cable wire along with the male and female connectors. I would cut the original wire close to the switch controller. Using the connectors would allow you to make different extension lengths as needed and when not needed you could plug the original wires back together.

romiller

What they said about the phone cable, ditto.

No need to cut the switch wire,just disconnect the wire from the switch connect the telephone wire to the switch & run the wire to one side of a barrier strip,then connect the controller wire to the other side of the strip,be sure to mark underneath the switch where each color wire goes.

I have done this with 4 wire telephone cable. If you can find the round cable the olors match the fast track colors. 

I use standard telephone inside wire 22ga 4 conductor solid wire. Colors match exactly and I use either "UY" or "UR" Scotchlock connectors available from Lowes or HD and packaged under the "Ideal" brand name. Depending on the amount of cable required you might look at www.Tektel.com . They offer wire listed under "security" cable 22GA 4C Solid in lengths of 500' for $29.50 or 1000' for $46.50. It comes in a play out box to make it easier to run.