https://blog.model-train-help.com/2010/03/dpdt-switch-between-2-main-lines.html?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=dpdt-switch-between-2-main-lines Model railroads and model trains Thu, 22 Nov 2012 06:37:02 +0000 hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://blog.model-train-help.com/2010/03/dpdt-switch-between-2-main-lines.html#comment-745 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 03:35:30 +0000 http://68.171.208.138/~blogmode/2010/03/dpdt-switch-between-2-main-lines.html#comment-745 I can answer two of your questions. I don’t know how long your track is, so I am probably suggesting oversize when it comes to wire gauge. The main bus wires (from the DCC Command Station) can be 12 AWG solid wire. It’s easy to find at home centers. I prefer red and black. They should feed the riser wires (track feeders). For the short distance from the bus to the track, 20 AWG or 22 AWG should be sufficient.
I strongly suggest that you place the feeders beneath the layout and follow under your main line track. This will help keep the polarity orientation, especially if your layout is circular. If you use flex track, feed each section with track feeder wires. Track is generally a fairly poor conductor. You can solder the rail joiners and feed every other section. If you are using any of the sectional track, I would solder the rail joiners and feed every third or forth track section (about every meter).
Soldering the track feeder wires to the bus wire will give a very good connection. The use of “suitcase” connectors is much faster and easier. If installed per manufacturer’s instructions, they should be a solid connection. It’s kind of a personal choice.
Good luck and I wish you success.
Ken

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