Make. Paint. Build: Hints, tips and advice for model train enthusiasts, model makers and miniaturists
Electrics
Hints, tips and advice on installing, building and fixing model railway electrics and wiring; DC and DCC; track, lighting, signalling, controls and accessories.
How prevent, find and fix model railway track voltage drops
Voltage drop is a common problem in model railways, especially when you start adding more track and accessories and is one of the most common causes of [...]
How would you wire this passing loop oval layout?
John B. Recently posted a track plan to the ModelRailwayEngineer community asking for wiring suggestions. [...]
Shuttle-units: what you need to know
Sit back and let your model railway run on autopilot with a shuttle controller. MRE investigates these handy little devices. [...]
CDUs: The Power Behind Model Railway Point Control
If you're a model railway enthusiast, you know how important it is to keep your points (or turnouts) working properly. A Capacitor Discharge Unit (CDU) can [...]
What wire should I use for a CDU
From the gauge to the length, choosing the right wire is key to the operation of a CDU and point motor. Read this quick guide to the best wire for your CDU. [...]
What is a CDU & why do you need one
CDUs are a common component on many model railways, but what are they? [...]
Spaghetti free wiring
Here's a handy little tip to reduce cable chaos on your layout. [...]
Background scenic sounds
Want ambient background sounds on your layout, it's cheaper and easier than might you think. [...]
Model train wiring for dummies
The best instructional/reference books to help you get started with model railway electrics.
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How to attach wires to model train track
Moving up from track clips to attaching power wires to track? Here are 3 techniques, how to do each and the pluses and minuses of each. [...]
A moving waterwheel
My exhibition layout will feature a mill with turning waterwheel. This article explains the simple electrics behind this. [...]
Ferrules, how and why to use them
Want to improve your electrical wiring contacts? Meet the electrical ferrule. [...]
Heat shrink protecting T junction cable joins
How to insulate wire T solder joints with heat shrink tubbing. You can't just slide heat shrink tubing over a T joint. [...]
A primer on wire sizes
Using the right wire for a model railway will not only be cheaper it'll make the wiring easier. But what are the right sizes of wire to use. [...]
Best wire stripping tool for model railways and household electrics
The easiest, fastest and best way to cut and strip wires for electrical work. [...]
Layout soldeirng tips for wiring you can trust
A step-by-step pictorial guide to soldering strong, reliable, wiring. [...]
The best model railway controllers for DC / analogue layouts
Want to upgrade from the standard model train controller? Not sure which controller to buy? This is my guide to picking the best analogue to fit your budget [...]
What voltage do N scale model trains run on
What's the best voltage for N scale trains to run on? [...]
How to wire Circuitron Tortoise Point Motors
Here's a quick simple guide to how I wire my Tortoise slow-motion point motors and use them with Lever operated passing contact switches. [...]
What magic is this? How do I get working bicycles on my model railway?
You've probably seen moving cars, buses and lorries on model railways but how about bicycles complete with cyclists, their legs furiously moving up and down? [...]
