Accompanying a redo of former layout wiring patterns comes wisdom on how to do it better (at least differently) next time. I've built several garage-based O-gauge holiday train layouts, and I improved the wiring scheme and pathways with each re-doing during 12 years of being Santa's toy train helper. Here are my "tricks of the trade" - although not a "secret" among hobbyists. Others may offer practical tips.
1) Color-coded wire pairs according to function: track power, accessory power (usually fixed 14 v), lighting for buildings (usually 12 volts DC), 5.5 v for Miller signs, etc. Although some hobbyists are committed to wire labeling, I'm not a neatnick. My layout isn't big enough for NASA-style wiring practices.
2) Terminal strips for junctions (by Radio Shack online), and the nifty 12 or 24 connection terminal strips by MTH.
3) Spade lugs soldered to ends of wires for goof-proof wire connections. Time-consuming up front, but worth it.
4) Lots of plastic cable ties to support wires along their path to avoid the "explosion in a spaghetti factory" look.
5) Bus wiring with feeders along the routes to lock-ons. I prefer the Lionel lighted lock-ons for a quick visual check-up of all active track power connections. i know - some hobbyists prefer to hide all track wiring. I envy their fastidiousness, but not enough to join that fraternity.
6) Lionel metal lighted bumpers at the end of sidings. The track power wires connected to each siding can be connected to toggle switches to show on/off of track power for each siding.
7) Wiring to accessories mounted on the perimeter fascia board adjacent to each accessory. I favor Lionel #90 momentary contact pushbuttons or the classic slide switch for on/off control.
8) Master power switch for the entire layout - one switch kills all electricity.
And so it goes ...
Mike Mottler LCCA 12394
