 Joined: 19/08/2009(UTC) Posts: 199 Location: Southern New Jersey, USA
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Well, I finally received my M#6646 analog transformer. Since I have no track yet, I have been looking on eBay for feeder track in the C series.
Alas, nothing yet. But the instruction manual from the transformer on p.19 states, "With C Track most of the track sections in conjunction with feeder wire sets can be used as feeder tracks." The next paragraph describes which Feeder Wire Sets are compatible with the various track series. My question is how are these wire sets connected to the track sections, and how many does one need for a basic 3-4'X7-8' oval?
Thanks,
Chas
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Joined: 25/07/2001(UTC)
Posts: 11,165
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The C-track feeder wires are easily connected to the tracks... The C-tracks have tounge connectors where the feeder wire spades fit.
For a simple oval, one is enough since the track-to-track connectivity is excellent. The possible electrical problem may you run into with second-hand track is dirt on the rails/studs if you don't run it so often... |
Juhan - "Webmaster", at your service...
He who asks a question is a fool for five minutes. He who does not ask a question remains a fool forever. [Old Chinese Proverb] |
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Joined: 06/10/2006(UTC)
Posts: 1,345
Location: ,
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There are two types of C track feeder - one with a PCB that clips into the underside of the track (with anti-interference components) and one which is intended to be used with digital control. Both use spade connectors that are simply slid onto tabs under the track.
You might want to keep an eye out for people splitting up sets. I've seen bundles of C track that would make a good starter layout for very sensible money this side of the Atlantic. |
Matt from Wales.
When you pay Range Rover prices, don't accept Lada quality |
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Joined: 09/02/2009(UTC)
Posts: 983
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You can solder the wires onto the tags under the roadbed if you wish. Any model rail wire will do there is no need to buy a feeder wire set (although it is more convenient)
I would advise buying your C track new. 12 sections of curve track make a circle and you can buy as many straight sections as you want to make the size of oval you have space for.
Could I suggest a Marklin book 07421 which will give you lots of info.
dave |
davemr |
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Joined: 16/02/2004(UTC)
Posts: 15,442
Location: DE-NW
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Hi, Chas,
For a clean connection with anti-interference components you need a 74046 to connect transformer and track; you can use several 74042 to spread the power: connect one end near the 74046, the other one far away.
If you use a 74046, never bypass it with other connection to the transformer.
If you don't care about radio interference, just use a couple of 74040 to feed the power. One feed every 3' though 5' of track is recommended (but a layout of that size should work OK with one feed only).
You can use the spade connectors 74995 to make the wires yourself (I fix them with ordinary pliers, no need to buy the special M* tool). |
Regards Tom --- "In all of the gauges, we particularly emphasize a high level of quality, the best possible fidelity to the prototype, and absolute precision. You will see that in all of our products." (from Märklin New Items Brochure 2015, page 1) ROFLBTCUTS  |
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Joined: 06/10/2006(UTC)
Posts: 1,345
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One more bit of advice - you need equal numbers of 24188 and 24172 straights, as Marklin didn't manage to settle on a standard straight track in C track.
It is definitely worth finding a chart of how all the various bits of track fit together, this will help you work out what you want to buy. |
Matt from Wales.
When you pay Range Rover prices, don't accept Lada quality |
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Joined: 28/10/2008(UTC)
Posts: 21
Location: Athens,
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Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote:Originally posted by WelshMatt
<br />One more bit of advice - you need equal numbers of 24188 and 24172 straights, as Marklin didn't manage to settle on a standard straight track in C track.
It is definitely worth finding a chart of how all the various bits of track fit together, this will help you work out what you want to buy.
Very interesting, I didn't know that. Actually, I was wondering why two lengths of 'long' straight C-track are needed? Do you happen to have any reference material that we could have a look at (e.g. the chart you are referring, or an older artical in M* Magazin)? Thanks! |
George, a Marklin fan |
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Joined: 06/10/2006(UTC)
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I've been trying to work out why there need to be two standard lengths of straight since I got into Marklin. Nobody has ever managed to give a convincing answer why all other manufacturers get away with one standard straight length while Marklin need two...
If you can get hold of a Marklin catalogue you'll find a diagram of the C track geometry in there. I can't find one online although someone else may be able to? |
Matt from Wales.
When you pay Range Rover prices, don't accept Lada quality |
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Joined: 16/02/2004(UTC)
Posts: 15,442
Location: DE-NW
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Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote:Originally posted by WelshMatt
<br />I've been trying to work out why there need to be two standard lengths of straight since I got into Marklin. By having different lengths they avoid the need for very short pieces of track. The 188mm piece at an angle of 24.3° exactly matches the length of a 172mm piece at an angle of 0° - 24.3° is the angle of the turnouts. With M track, you needed short pieces (about 10 mm) to compensate for the angle. Such short pieces probably can't be made for C track. |
Regards Tom --- "In all of the gauges, we particularly emphasize a high level of quality, the best possible fidelity to the prototype, and absolute precision. You will see that in all of our products." (from Märklin New Items Brochure 2015, page 1) ROFLBTCUTS |
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Joined: 23/03/2005(UTC)
Posts: 2,497
Location: Denmark
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Quote:[size=1" face="Verdana" id="quote]quote:Originally posted by WelshMatt
<br />It is definitely worth finding a chart of how all the various bits of track fit together, this will help you work out what you want to buy. Have a look at a track length calculator created and published here by member Dale Schultz: http://layout.mixmox.com/1/calc |
Regards,
Benny - Outsider and MFDWPL  |
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