Mike,
I did not read you post until a short while ago. I don't mind at all emailing you with the information your requested, but maybe other people would want to know as well, so I will post it. But please, do not hesitate to email me if you like!
I started using 12vDC coil relays, which I bought 50 at $4 each from Mouser: Tyco T9AP5D52-12. (*) These have 20 amp rated SPDT contacts, which is more than enough. I built six of the eight 6-relay modules I needed, installed them, and they work great. Before I finished the other two modules, however, I found cheaper relays on E-bay. They also have an LED for each relay to indicate when they are picked up. The SPDT contacts on these relays are rated at 10 amps, but that should be fine, and have 5vDC coils. So I bought several of those modules for $10 each, and each module has (8) eight relays!
Whichever relays you select is up to you and what you feel comfortable with. I just looked on E-Bay, and found 6-relay modules for $6 and free shipping. See last picture below.
My terminal blocks before I installed the relays.
Homemade relay (Tyco) module wiring
Relay module completed (Tyco relays) 12vDC coils
After-the-fact discovered 8-relay module, 5vDC coils
New (purchased) relay module installed. Only six relays used in this case.
6-Relay module referenced above with link, also 5vDC coils. Wires are supplied.
I used 22 and 24 AWG wire from the toggle switches on the control panel to the modules (some 120 feet away) to actuate the relays. It is nice indeed to be able to turn off any spur, siding, or main district as we wish.
Hope this helps, and let me know if you need anything else.
Alex
(*) PS. I have 14 of the Tyco relays left, which I am not going to use, and will sell them for $3 each if anyone want them.
