Does someone have a link or the correct size spade connectors to use for power drops pressing the spade into the underside of the rail? Gargraves sells them, but only with an 8" drop and I'd prefer to just make up my own.
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Charlie........Tom of our modular group (Gilly @ N&W) might know. I will ask him.
Peter
Originally Posted by MichRR714:
Does someone have a link or the correct size spade connectors to use for power drops pressing the spade into the underside of the rail? Gargraves sells then, but only with an 8" drop and I'd prefer to just make up my own.
Used to use them with tinplate track back in my Tracker days. You want the smallest size available. The ones for 18-20 gauge wire will work, but the 22-24 gauge ones are a bit better. You can stuff them into Gargraves from the bottom. Use the crimp connectors, but pull off the plastic, stuff your feed wire in and solder.
R&S electronics, Livonia, south side of 96 service drive. One of the best sources for electronics near Detroit. Multiple sources. They may be able to find a thinner one if it exists.
I like Elliott's suggestion. More material less hassle. I've used these and drill a hole to attach to the trucks of my Weaver E8's Listed as a male quick connect.
Use the proper crimp connection tool.
Originally Posted by Big_Boy_4005:
Those are the ones. Gargraves also offers them pre-made. Gar 931 B/W 12 will get you six each Black / White with the spade connectors. FWIW, I prefer the power leads soldered to the track pins.
Gilly
Thank you everyone for your input.
Are you trying to eliminate any soldering? Why not just solder the feeder directly to the bottom of the rails?
Soldering direct is certainly one option I am considering. Several people I know have used the spades with excellent results as well.
Charlie, I soldered direct to the track. No problems.
Dan
We soldered because we want no chance of coming loose or corrosion affecting the joint. Once the ballast/ground cover goes down, it soaks in glue/water. I'm not saying the tabs are a bad idea, I just don't want to have to trouble shoot or add feeders to the outside later because a tab came loose.
