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[quote]QUOTE: Originally posted by Sperandeo Hi Joe, If you're going to use a wire stripper, the kind to get is an automatic stripper, You slip the wire into the appropriate size jaw and squeeze the handles, and it cuts and pushes back the insulation even in the middle of a wire. It's a much better tool for all kinds of stripping jobs, and usually costs about 20 bucks at any well-stocked hardware store. There's a picture of one on page 100 of my book, "Easy Model Railroad Wiring." That said, I use "suitcase" connectors (or IDCs, for insulation displacement connectors) for tapping feeders into bus wires. If you use the Scotchlok brand from 3M, the brown no. 567 connector fits 10-12 gauge wire on the "run" or through side, and 14-18 gauge wire on the "tap" or stub side. I've found these completely reliable for layout use, and much faster and easier than stripping, soldering, and taping a bunch of connections. Suitcase connectors are covered on pages 100-101 of "Easy Model Railroad Wiring." The most convenient way to buy them in quantity is online, and I get them from Mouser at www.mouser.com. A good, inexpensive tool for installing IDCs is the Robo-Grip cam-action plier. Channel-locks work too, but not as well. Good luck, Andy. [/quote] Thanks, Andy! I in fact ordered your book online here yesterday -- LHS didn't have it in stock and didn't know when they'd get it in. I have 14 gauge wire for the bus, and 20 for the runs to the track ; I'll check the Mouser website to see if there are Scotchloks to fit those wires. I would prefer to do as little soldering as possible. [:)] Ok, I checked the Mouser site, and it looks like the red #905 is the one I need; 18-14 run and 22-18 tap. I'll order a bunch and see how they work.
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