No that I know I can run my switches from the Accessory Jack on my Z4000 I have this question. I am running feeder wires from my Z to a terminal strip then from the strip to the switch machines. What is the recommended terminal strip to use to run wire to the switches. Does it matter? Part numbers would be helpful or a picture. Thanks for the help.
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Jim,
The short answer is, it pretty much doesn't matter. What gauge wire are you using? Google "double row terminal strips" to see a selection or choose terminal strips from the menus of AllElectronics.com or Waytekwire.com. I wouldn't pay the outlandish price for something branded with a train maker's logo. If you are simply providing power to the switch machines (control comes some other way), you can run a pair of buss wires (red = hot; black = common) and drop feeders off them using suitcase connectors.
George
That is kind of what I thought, I just do not want to make an expensive mistake. MTH's are about 4X more expensive. I am using 14g stranded wire because of the length of my layout. Thanks G3750
That is kind of what I thought, I just do not want to make an expensive mistake. MTH's are about 4X more expensive. I am using 14g stranded wire because of the length of my layout. Thanks G3750
You're welcome. My layout is 18.5' x 10'. I'm using 14 gauge stranded for track power. Switch machines are powered with either 16 or 18 gauge wire (I have to check) in a buss configuration.
At the risk of stating the obvious, you'll want to crimp spade connectors to the ends of the wires. That will make connection and disconnection with the terminal strip much easier and faster. Color coding wire, labeling wire pairs, and maintaining a wiring plan are also good practices.
George
HI Jim,
Here is a a method I used, parts from home depot or similar store
Works well, and is low cost.
That is kind of what I thought, I just do not want to make an expensive mistake. MTH's are about 4X more expensive. I am using 14g stranded wire because of the length of my layout. Thanks G3750
You're welcome. My layout is 18.5' x 10'. I'm using 14 gauge stranded for track power. Switch machines are powered with either 16 or 18 gauge wire (I have to check) in a buss configuration.
At the risk of stating the obvious, you'll want to crimp spade connectors to the ends of the wires. That will make connection and disconnection with the terminal strip much easier and faster. Color coding wire, labeling wire pairs, and maintaining a wiring plan are also good practices.
George
quote:My layout is an around the wall 45' x 16' x 61" wide. I twist the wires together, mark and I have a drawing of the layout, blocks etc. I appreciate the help. It is always a good idea to get confirmation what you are planning. I also can't see spending the money for a branded terminal strip, they all do the same thing.
Jim,
Here is a photo of my western power distribution panel that show both double row terminal strips and suitcase connectors. I also attached a PDF with specs on different types of terminal strips.
The suitcase connectors are to the left of and just below the silver TPC-400.
George
Thanks for the picture, George. That is exactly what I have in mind.
Rich, thanks for the link to your "home-made" terminal strip instructions. Very helpful!
Steve
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
