Wiring Handbook for Toy Trains

This book is designed to give you a solid understanding of traditional, non-electronic wiring for toy train layouts. Think of this book as a primer of basic wiring knowledge. It focuses on one thing – the logical, sequential, way to successfully wire a layout.

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Author: Ray L. Plummer
Softcover; 5 1/2 x 8 1/2; 96 pages; 65 color photos; ISBN: 9780897785334

Ray L. Plummer describes himself as a tinkerer, interested in the practical aspects of operating, maintaining and repairing prewar and postwar Lionel trains.

Introduction 4

Getting Started
Basic electricity 6
Rule number one 9

Examining Electrical Components
Transformers 12
Electro-mechanical devices 21
Switches 23

Wiring a Layout
Wire basics 29
Common grounds 31
Bus wires 34
Connections 36
Successful soldering 38

Operating Two Trains
Zones of control 41
Collision prevention 48
Automatic route selection 52

Using Accessories and Controllers
Train-activated accessories 55
Ganged controllers 63
Replacement controllers 65
Quick fixes 71

Maintaining and Monitoring a Layout
Multimeters 75
Amp and volt meters 78
022 turnouts 80
Troubleshooting 83

Layout wiring examples 84
Glossary 93
Index 95