wiring

[Anonymous]

I'm building a new layout, shelf type around the room, size 13 Ft x 23Ft, My
question is this, I'm using cab control common rail wiring and I would like
to know how often I should place feeder lines on the common rail side[?][?]
Thanks ahead of time for all your input.
The Harven

[jhugart]

You want a technical answer or a non-technical answer? *grins*

Technically, you could get a multi-meter and test the voltage drop from your first set of feeders to see how bad it is, then calculate how often you should put feeders.

Practically, you should probably have a feeder for the common rail opposite each block feeder at least.

I have a simple oval of track, with one set of feeders on it, and there's a noticeable performance drop on the point of the track opposite the feeders.

Consider it this way: If you put in too many, you can always cut wires later. Re-installing wires after scenery is more of a pain.

[2021]

It is best to install wiring on every section of track (both tracks). While this is a little more work, it assures continuity between sections without relying on solder joints. I run a bus under the layour and make all connections before ballasting. The main bus can be 14 gauge and the feeder wires as small as 22 gauge. You'll be glad you did in the long run.

[Anonymous]

i agree with 2021, especially when your track starts to get dirty. And if you decide to upgrade to DCC, the more feeders the better your trains will run