This is purely theoretical. I do not have an overheating problem, but I trying to learn how to avoid one in the future.
Suppose I have a large layout, and only one set of 18 gauge wires sending current to the track. Let's say the length of the wires is 8 feet.
So, now I run two trains and two lighted cabooses on the layout at full speed.
The wires start to heat up and there is a plastic smell.
Now suppose, I turn it all off. And then I run 5 more sets of 18 gauge wires to the track for power. All of the 18 gauge wires are fed from a set of 12 gauge wires which are only one foot long, with one end of these heavier wires connected to the transformer, and the other end of these wires connected to distribution blocks, to which all of the 18 gauge wires are connected. (In other words, the "bus wires" are only one foot long.)
Here is my question: Does adding all of these extra 18 gauge feeds to the track "spread the load" of the power running to the track, so that there would be no overheating when the trains are run? Or, do all of these sets of wire continue to carry the same load, so that all that would happen is that we would now have all six sets of wires overheating?
Thanks for all replies. Again, it is purely theoretical.
Mannyrock
