Good advice for you so far.
I used three MTH terminal blocks on my L-shaped layout:
#1 for distribution of 18v AC track power from a Lionel 135w "brick" thru a TMCC Command Base to a designated terminal block, with feeder wires going to four lighted lock-ons on the lower level.
#2 for distribution of 14v AC from a MTH Z1000 to a designated terminal block, with feeder wires going to eleven O42 switches on the lower level Since a RC switch only draws power momentarily when it is activated by the switch controller, this circuit is never overloaded.
#3 for distribution of 14v AC from a MTH Z1000 to a designated terminal block, with feeder wires going to Lionel and MTH operating accessories on the lower level. I mounted an on/off pushbutton in the circuit to each accessory; mounted on the fascia board near each accessory. Easy for kids to use. Also, this circuit supplies power to lighted buildings. Monitor the number of lighted buildings; the total wattage can build up sooner than you think and trip the circuit breaker.
As others have recommended, I followed the advice in helpful books about layout wiring. Tip: keep the instruction sheet packed with each accessory for reference -- keep them on file.
Some pix of my layout enclosed. Sorry, no pix on hand about the under-platform hidden wiring.
Mike Mottler LCCA 12394
mottlerm@gmail.com
