This newbie has two distinct installation scenarios for using Caboose Industries ground throws with Atlas Custom Line turnouts. The issue is powering the frog on the Atlas Custom Turnout in both cases.
Case Scenario # 1
If I desire to use the Caboose Industries ground throws, the 220S with Selectable Fittings, how do you recommend joining stranded wire to the SPDT contacts on the 220S. I do not love soldering, especially on tiny items like those SPDT contacts. Is there a connector from an electric supply store that one could use to connect wire to those contacts. Or do you experts recommend the solder job.
Case Scenario # 2
I know that it is NOT wise to use the Caboose Industries 220S/Selectable Fittings with an Atlas Snap Relay. Instead, could one use the Caboose Industries 218S and purchase the Atlas Snap Relay and connect via the bar provided on the Atlas insulated frog to the snap relay in accomplishing the powering of the insulated frog.
This newbie needs a lot of advice and help. Of the two scenarios, please tell me which is the best route to take. I would appreciate all advice.
Steven
Afraid I can't be of much help there, except to say take one to your local Radio Shack or other electronics store and see what they can offer for easy hookups to the contacts on the ground throw.
Good luck,
Thank you, cowman for your response.
Come on guys, I know I am new to this hobby, but I need to know if somebody knows of some connector that can be connected to the SPDT contacts on the 220S to avoid soldering. I peruse the Radio Shack web site and did not find any connector that would work.
Could I just the Atlas snap relay and use the CI 218S instead?
Please help!
I know of no readily available connector that will fit onto the Caboose Industries contacts due to their odd shape. Soldering is how I installed mine.
And you need a clip on heat sink between the soldered joint and the plastic of the ground throw or the heat from the soldering will melt the plastic and make the ground throw a worthless blob of melted plastic.
Thanks Cacole. That is the kind of expertise that I needed. Thank you so much.
I think I will stay away from the CI ground throw with the SPDT contacts. I may use the 218S with an Atlas Snap Relay attached with the bar that connects with the frog on the Atlas Custom Line turnout. Scenario # 2 may be my best option.
Again, thanks Cacole. You saved me a mile of trouble.