Edit post

Edit your reply below.

Post Body
Enter your post below.
Personally, I do NOT think soldering is necessary. I soldered 22-gauge stranded feeders to the bottom of each metal joiner and used a Q-tip to put a small amount of a conductive solution (I used RailZip, there are others) on the bottom of the rail ends before placing the joiner. In the ten years this layout was up (we moved house), I had zero problems with electrical conduction. And by the way, I have no fear of soldering, in fact there were a few spots where I did solder in order to have a secure physical connection. Instead, I don't like the aesthetic appearance of the soldered joints and especially don't like the absolute permanence of it. For example, I'm re-using about $600 worth of Shinohara turnouts alone, which I doubt would have been possible if soldered. Furthermore, its no big deal to go back and solder later if you develop problems - much easier than trying to UN-solder because you have decided to make a track change.
Tags (Optional)
Tags are keywords that get attached to your post. They are used to categorize your submission and make it easier to search for. To add tags to your post type a tag into the box below and click the "Add Tag" button.
Add Tag

Update Reply

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Model Railroader Newsletter See all

Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!