Wiring a Gargraves/Ross Layout

These are used to connect a wire to the bottom of the GG rail (in the slot.) No soldering necessary.  Crimp a short length of wire to the tab, insert the tab into the rail, and pass the wire down through the table where it is attached to the main bus wire.

Yes, you need to connect the two outer rails for the best reliability.  The exception is where you want to use a short section of rail to provided occupancy detection for a signal or a control panel pilot lamp.

Or, use the right angle "flag" versions if you can't go down:

Thank You Arthur,

You answered my question concerning tying the outside rails together with two spades.

Tommy

Thanks guys! That helps a lot. Anyone have any suggestion/diagram for wiring the DZ1000 to the AIU? 

Hi!

Arthur and Rob are absolutely correct.  I use Fastenal Part No. 60049 Male Disconnects.  These are rated for 16-14 gauge wire.  This has the advantage of "snapping" into the bottom of GarGraves (or Ross or Curtis) track and being difficult to dislodge.  It won't just fall out.  I strongly recommend it.

I do not use both rails for ground.  However, I run TMCC rather than DCS.

George

Don't worry, the wheels & axles will take care of making sure you do.

If the metal strips had wire connectors on the ends, those are GG's track connectors similar to LIONEL lock-ons; I used them for two loops around the Christmas tree this year.  You could also use GG's track connector strips.  Their intended use is to join track sections together when track pins aren't or can't be used; e.g. cutting out a piece of track and replacing it when the adjacent tracks have been permanently installed.  Just be sure to avoid shorting the strips under the rails.

Just out of curiosity - what's the best plan for wire drops? I've read everything from each 37" section of track to only a couple per loop. 

I have a drop every 3-4 track joints with excellent results.  My bus wire is 12 gauge and drops are 14 gauge.  Drops are soldered directly to the rail and connections to the bus were made with Posi-Taps.

This is one of those topics likely to have widely varying opinions.  Want mine?  Every 2nd or 3rd section of track, regardless of length.