Model Railroader publisher Terry Thompson shows you how we installed feeder wires on the HO scale Beer Line. You’ll learn how to use “suitcase” connectors to attach feeders to the power bus and how to solder feeders to the rails.
Build the Milwaukee Road Beer Line part 2
By Angela Cotey | January 19, 2009
| Last updated on November 23, 2020
Attaching feeder wires
Why in the world would you solder a feeder wire onto the inside of the rail where the flange would go? Also, what type of solder and flux did you use? Thanks!
I have no problem viewing these videos on my iPad. I touch the arrow and it plays.
Terry just a couple of thoughts. I first drill the hole through track bed between the ties that hold the track I will be soldering to. I then bend the tinned wire into an "L". After feeding the wire through the hole I can solder to the track. Secondly, just to completely eliminate any possibility of a problem with the wheel flanges, I never solder to the inside of the rails. I like to be as safe as possible, it stinks to try to cleanup the track after some overzealous soldering. Ask me how I know.
Thanks for the great suggestions, examples, and ideas. I am beginning to look forward to and use the plus segment more than the actual magazine. Keep up the good work and great video(JM).
Terry's explanation of how to use suitcase connectors was great – really cleared up things for me. Thanks Terry.
I wish you would use something other than flash player it – would be great to watch this on my iPad.
This video is a great introduction to soldering, and suitcase connecters!
Since the Beer Line is modular, I was wondering how the
individual sections are wired at each end to accomodate easy connection and disconnection.
Great video. Very Informative. What is done with the black ground feeder wire from the rails?? Is it attached at the opposite end of the suitcase connectors??
Good video. One question… why did you attach the 2nd wire to the inside rail??? Would that not hamper the train wheels?