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Wiring Question...

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  • Member since
    December 2010
  • 161 posts
Wiring Question...
Posted by dexterdog on Saturday, January 1, 2011 11:04 AM

I am ready to start wiring a section of my N scale layout, and I was wondering if it's possible to use 18 gauge speaker wire to join the track feeders to the bus wires? The main bus is 14 gauge and I am using 22 gauge for the feeders. I have tons of old speaker wire on hand and would like to use some of it for the layout. I am using suitcase connectors to make all the connections. Any comments would be appreciated.

  • Member since
    May 2008
  • 4,612 posts
Posted by Hamltnblue on Saturday, January 1, 2011 12:49 PM

You could.  Why not just hook the 22 gauge feeders to the Buss?

Springfield PA

  • Member since
    February 2005
  • From: Vancouver Island, BC
  • 23,330 posts
Posted by selector on Saturday, January 1, 2011 1:12 PM

If you have to do this for the sake of reach, sure, no problem....BUT...you are undertaking a lot of connections, any one of which could be a real challenge to track down when things don't work later.  As HB is asking, wouldn't it be better to eliminate all those risks?  If your 22 gauge wires are no longer than 3', you should have no problems.

Just something to think about as you go along.  If you simply have to do this in at least some cases, make darned good and sure to solder, and check continuity up to the rails after each solder.  You don't want any head-scratching after you have done 8 or ten of these and then find you're not getting any power up to the rails.

Crandell

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