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Modular Layout Coupling Sections
A member of the Overberg Modular Railway Club in Hermanus, South Africa has sent in this question for readers:
“We are experiencing difficulties getting our modules to connect successfully with adjoining modules using ‘conecting pieces’ of 110 mm (4.5 inch)Atlas track. We usually insert the connecting pieces into each of the 2 mainline tracks on the module and then slide the fishplates (with the assistance of a small flat screwdriver) over to the fixed track.
Is there an alternative or better method of connecting the rails? Thanks to readers in advance.”
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2 Responses to Modular Layout Coupling Sections
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I had only 2 4×4 plywood modules on my old HO layout making it 4×8′ with multiple tracks crossing at the separation point. I dont know exactly what track you are useing but what I did (and if this sounds too simple or you are already doing this) I slid the track joiners onto one side of each track, joined the 2 modules and then slid the joiners onto the opposite side of each track. looking back at your question it sound like this is what you are doing….If this is not good enough and you plan on leaving the modules together “FOREVER?????” then just solder them together. I left mine with the joiners so I could separate the modules and move it and put it back together, this seemed to work very well but each time I joined them I used new joiners. Tony P
that’s a good idea- however, if you have a BUS from your DCC system, and drop feeders from the rails on either side of the module, you can simply connect the feeder wires to the BUS under the table, and then no need to have the joiners on the track. Yes, there will be a small gap in the track(s) where the two modules meet but this should not be a huge concern, as long as the trains go through without any issues.
Cheers