So far I just started and have some results. Some of the brass Split-jaw fasteners that I have removed, appear to have failed, or just corroded. I can only guess it's mainly from being stepped on while cleaning debris off of the track. With this spring being so wet, the roadbed doesn't offer much support. I'm installing all stainless clamps. They seem much stronger and stay cleaner,... I believe.
That also leads to the next issue. I believe my wire ends are corroding out in the weather. I'll need to find a better way to make power connections that remain weather proof. To complicate things, the wire needs to be kept out of the sun so that the jacket stays soft and flexible. I may run short leads from the conduit boxes that are sacrificial. I could just change out the ends as needed. I will first look for some all weather connectors and protect the leads up to them better.
I get strong signal test with one engine on the rails and good power. I believe the problem gets worse as more engines are added drawing more juice thru these problem areas. So I will just attack them and see what happens. I have already bought a lot of stainless Split-jaw connectors as they seem to make stronger joints and hopefully better weather protection.
