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Bachmann train track connection help?

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  • Member since
    April 2014
  • 3 posts
Bachmann train track connection help?
Posted by Nk1995 on Saturday, April 5, 2014 3:22 AM
Ok so im new to model railroading and i got a bachmann starter set that has ez track. Im planning to create a 4by6 layout but ez track is expensive. So i was going to get atlas code 100 because its pretty cheap but i dont know where and how to connect the bachmann controller to the atlas track
  • Member since
    January 2005
  • From: Chicago IL
  • 273 posts
Posted by bobwrght on Thursday, April 10, 2014 6:15 AM

Add the lead wires from the controller to the track in at least 2-4 locations around the layout. You can solder the lead wires to the Atlas rail joiners then install or you can purchase rail joiners with the lead wires already soldered.

  • Member since
    July 2006
  • From: Central Vermont
  • 4,565 posts
Posted by cowman on Thursday, April 10, 2014 8:48 AM

Welcome to the forums and to model railroading.

If I remember correctly, the Bachmann track comes with a sort of plug in arrangement on both ends.  If you are not  comfortable soldering yet, you could cut the track end plug off the wire and use wire nuts to connect to wires going to the track.  Atlas does make a rail joiner with wire attached, as mentioned above.  If the power pack end does not have a plug, but the two wires just connect, use regular wires coming from the rail joiners.  Connect them together (wire nuts will work, but are not the preferred method, though I have never  had any problems.)  It is a good idea to have several connections around the layout.  Are you going to use flex track or sectional?  Many folks recommend a connection at least every 6', some closer, especially if you are using sectional track.  One thing to be sure is that your joiners are tight,  if one gets damaged, it will make a poor connection.  Get a package of new ones to use as replacements. 

You can use your EZ track with the Atlas Code 100 if you don't want to waste it.  You would have to get cork or other roadbed to bring it up to the same height, cut a notch to go around the connecting end of the EZ roadbed and add your Atlas from there.  You may need a thin shim at the joint between the two if the height isn't the same.  I thinkk the rail joiners are just about the same size. 

 

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