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| Last updated on January 9, 2021
Model Railroader managing editor David Popp shows how to use insulation displacement (suitcase) connectors to wire underneath your layout.
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The first time I saw this video, I told myself I would have to try using suitcase connectors for connecting my DCC buss wires to the feeder wires that go to the rails. I ordered a bag of suitcase connectors from MicroMark and they just came in, so I reviewed this video prior to installation. This video was easy to find using the MRVideoPlus search feature. I just used the keyword “suitcase” and it came right up. I love this resource.
16 gauge bus wire, but what is the recommended feeder wire? One comment says 24. Is that large enough for DCC? Keeping it as short as possible of course. Solid wire too, right?
What crimping tool are you using? Is it better than ordinary pliers?
MRVideoPlus is great and usefull.
very good, I will be using suite cases to wire my layout.
I still prefer soldering – cheap, no limitations on wire sizes, 100% effective, and no special tool required beyond what I already have in my tool box.
For those who are afraid of soldering or do not wish to learn how, suitcase connectors are a better choice than just twisting the wire together.
I have a 12×6 and I used 24gauge for the feeders, spaced 2 to3 ft apart and 20 gauge for the bus. suitcase to connect them …AWSOME….. no overhead soldering….nice and they work well !!
What wire did you cut; you just placed all 3 in the connector; why cut it:
kfjordan@mindspring.com
Where can i get a detailed explanation on everything about feeder wires including selecting the proper wire guage? Thank you-good video
Google "suitcase connectors" and you'll find some at Micro Mark and other sources. They are color coded. Different bus and feeder wire sizes fit in them. There is an expensive crimping tool for these, but instructions say that pliers work too.
This is a good way to avoid under-the-layout soldering.
Connections that might be taken apart, such as for a removable module, should be connected with jacks.
These videos are very helpful and I certainly appreciate them.
I am about to begin using suitcases to connect my wiring. What the video showed was a splice and I understand that. Why wasn't a feeder wire shown that runs the whole underneath of the table can be run thru the suitcase without cutting it off and then the wire from the track inserted as a splice,just as the video did show??
what gage wire is your feeder wire
I dislike soldering and avoid it. Suitcase connectors are great fot that.
this will save be from a lot of soldering
Thanks Hank
Thanks much for the most basic how to; I found it to be very helpful.
Bravo and more please