I am getting ready to lay track. Atlas code 100 flex track. What gauge wire is the best to use when running wire to the tracks?
For feeder wires, I use stranded wire in 22 gauge or 24 gauge. I use Brawa wire.
Alton Junction
For feeder wires, no more than #18. I prefer solid here. I use a #20 'alarm wire' you can get on spools at Home Depot, it's red and white but only loosely twisted so it's easy to seperate.
For the power bus, depends on how long the run will be, for my around the walls 10x15 layout I am using #14. I prefer stranded here because it it easier to pull around under the benchwork. For a larger wire length you'd probably want to step up to #12. Both are available at Home Depot on spools in many colors, I use red and white to match the feeders.
Wire is not cheap, but think about how much you might need and buy the approriate size spool - most of the wire comes in 20' packs, 100' spools, and 500' spools. To buy 100' in 20' packs would cost you about double just getting the 100' spool. ANd the 500' spools are only about double the cost of the 100' spools. On all but the smallest layouts you'll need more than 20' of each wire color. 100' is about right for small room size layouts, if you are filling a basement go right for the 500' spools.
--Randy
Modeling the Reading Railroad in the 1950's
Visit my web site at www.readingeastpenn.com for construction updates, DCC Info, and more.
rrinker Wire is not cheap, but think about how much you might need and buy the approriate size spool - most of the wire comes in 20' packs, 100' spools, and 500' spools. To buy 100' in 20' packs would cost you about double just getting the 100' spool. ANd the 500' spools are only about double the cost of the 100' spools. On all but the smallest layouts you'll need more than 20' of each wire color. 100' is about right for small room size layouts, if you are filling a basement go right for the 500' spools. --Randy
Ain't that the truth.
After spending way too much money on 33' rolls of Brawa wire, I finally got smarted and started buying 328' rolls.
Rich