Lionel Fastrack Switch

Telephone cable or Cat5e cable.

Moeman,

   IMO the very best way to fully eliminate the problem is to invest in FasTrack Command Control switches, place the manual controller close to the switch with the number on it you programmed into your Cab2 or Cab1, sell the regular remote switch to help recoup the purchase cost of the FT CC switch, or use it on a close up siding some place.  The new wireless FT CC switches are just fantastic, low voltage that can run off track power, they are seriously great stuff, that operate perfectly. 

PCRR/Dave

Thanks for the info Dave. i'm a rookie when it comes to digital. Saving up to go that route. Recently retired and finally getting around to setting up my postwar trains. I have a section with fastrack. With the older switches I could extend the wires easily. I am a little nervous about cutting the wires on the fastrack switches to run them under the table.  Can I do this?

I don't cut the wires, I just unhook one end or the other and use phone wire to make up the difference. I connect the two with a labeled terminal strip under the layout. The track end is a little easier, in my opinion. This way I still have it original when it comes off the table.

Exactly as JOHN H did.  Just add to it then you have the originals.  I think I bought my 4 strand wire at the Allentown Show.

Moeman,

   These gentlemen are giving you the correct skinny, if you plan on staying with manual control FT switches, they do work well in this manner and you should have no problems with them connected in this way.  If you are going to purchase any more FT switches, I recommend purchasing the CC FT switches, they also run with the manual controllers and eventually when you get into command control you will already have them.  Infact all the new FT Switches will be CC engineered from now on, if you are planning to purchase the latest FT switches.

PCRR/Dave

Dave,

Thanks for your input. It is really helpful.

Moeman

You have several choice as indicated to previously. However, you can purchase a cable that appears to be very similar to that which Lionel uses for these switches from Town & Country Hobbies. It's available as FT-C either by the foot or in 100' spools. When I wanted to extend the length of the cables for my switch controllers I used that cable and it worked very well.

I agree with the previous posters,using telephone wire works great,same colors,don't cut the wire just unscrew it from the switch & connect it to a barrier strip,also i put a piece of tape where the wires connect under the switch & mark where each color goes so you don't make any mistakes,don't ask how i know,make sure you do the tape before you disconect the wires,good luck.