Thanks Charlie for another great video. For the bus wiring on my layout I’ve been using the Wago blocks for a while. It’s certainly a lot easier than soldering while hanging upside down under my baseboards. Unfortunately it’s too late for me to make my baseboards removable. As far as the Hornby announcements are concerned there were a few offerings that caught my eye but at the prices Hornby are asking my credit card will be staying in my pocket for the time being. Electricity and gas have a higher priority 😢
@@ChadwickModelRailway I can go to one shop and pay 400.00 but if I was to drive 110 km I can get the same train for 300.00 and thats for N scale with sound but not too many around.
Yes, looking forward to seeing how you wire a tortoise motor to a DS64 with feedback for Train Controller as there are no video's out there on how to do this. Many thanks Charlie
Great video - I am just getting into model railways (my dad had one about 30 years ago!) And am contemplating my first layout - really inspiring to watch this come together - have lately binged almost all of your videos!
Another great vid. Thanks Charlie. It was a pleasure meeting you at the Frome model railway show last Saturday. Always look forward to your videos. All the best. Warren.
"Campbell's Model Railroading" on RUclips, January 2023 episode at about three minutes in talks about his discovery of WAGO connections. I've commented to him about your discovery of the connections... and that you two would get along if you ever met. (He's in the U.S.) His association is also on "What's Neat This Week in Model Railroading #221 January 14th 2023", to which is where I found Campbell Rice's own YT channel. Talk about Network Railing, eh? (Pun intended.) John BC, Canada
Thanks for a good start to the year. With regard to stripping wire for the WAGO connectors, the length you need to strip is marked on the side of the connector so you should never have the problem of not enough area to grip or have exposed wiring sticking out.
Aloha Charlie, On Holiday Vacation in Hawaii and still enjoyed Chadwick over low tea and pineapple. A quick use for WAGO wire connectors. You were pointing out your technique for wiring and planning of switch motors, or practical any connections you're installing blind, well here is my £2.20. Take a pair of two box WAGO junctions. Attach permanently to one side a short wire with an alligator clip. Leave the other box empty. Do this twice for each color of dropper wire you will be testing polarity or location. I do have three such pre-assemblies (Red, Black, or Green lines). Now to the wires you are installing clip those stripped line to the other side of the WAGO box temporarily. Now you can test your currants direction before doing your final connections. BTW. I love your idea of doing your underside connections from having the sub-roadbed tip on it's end. My roadbed I have built since the 1990's has been attached to the bench work by piano hinges secured to the rear of the structure. Now in my 70's it has become a less painful system to do under layout wiring and updates. In February my family, friends, rail club buddy's, and self begin to reinstall the layout after 10 months of Train Room distruction and rehabing. When completed ALL sub-roadbed will be a flip top away from the front facia. NXT time I write I may be back in New York State. 'Til Then Ta. Jim on Vaca 🫖🥪🥮🍍🍾🥂
Great method for hiding wires, thats one issue I had on my last layout attempt, will use this method soon when I start the layout again =. Cheers for sharing Charlie
Wago connectors are really great, very quick to make a connection. We used them on many temporary and permanent assemblies - they last years even in high-vibration environments.
Thanks Charlie, I appreciate your flexibility in showing new items to us, to help make installation a lot simpler! Realistic scheduling on keep the old mojo going often a challenge when creating a model railway!
Great video as usual. The neatness of your wiring is something to aspire to. Have you considered volts drop issues using the WAGO connectors for your bus wire, especially on a large layout. 20milliOhms per contact so 40milliohm per break in bus wire. If drawing 1 Amp that is 0.4volts if you have 10 breaks in the bus wire. I like the dcc concepts solder tags you demonstrated in video 175 as cable is not cut. But once the wiring has been teed off the bus the Wago type connectors are a good idea.
Hi Charlie. Whilst I accept your personal preference for the Tortoise point motors I think your video is one of the best I’ve seen to demonstrate the advantages of DCC Cobalt Digital ip motors.
Charlie, Installing fishplates using a piece of bent rail - brilliant! Have just ordered WAGO connectors. Great tips. I live in Washington State in the US and don't have a club to join within 150 miles..... Just signed up for Patreon. Be well, Trevor
Hi Charlie, another fantastic video, it is great to listen! I didn't know about these WAGO terminal blocks. In 15"58' you said: 'bringing new bus wire in', but it should be rather 'bringing new dropper wire or connector in' ;).
Well as usual another very informative video with lots of interesting detail on How to with your layout, i like your mention of MOJO, to me that is when you lose enthusiasm on your hobby which i have suffered from, but with your detailed videos and those of Underground Eric they do give me encouragement to get back into it, Thank you. As for Hornbys 2023 release video, i found the Blutooth control interesting as with the New model of Deltic, but to me the prices of new models are ridiculous, especially those of us who live downunder as it is twice that price plus expensive postage, and for the record i cannot understand Hornby doing TT120, if they had to do it why not TT110, as the original scale, Keep up the great work.
Hi Charlie, I have modified my Tortoise and Smail point motors to avoid having to solder on to the pads, instead the wires are attached to a screw terminal which is then plugged into the modified tortoise point motor. I have sent you some photos of a modified tortoise, it makes it so much easier to replace the point motors and also if you want to test them.
Another great video Charlie your certainly starting 2023 with a bang, over 50 years modelling railways and I’ve never seen anyone put fishplates on like that !! So simple but will save me hour’s fiddling with tweezers and pliers lol thank you 👍
Hi Charlie. Great to meet you at the Frome model Railway show last week and thanks for your advice on model railway controllers. Superb video as always and you are a great inspiration to many people , myself included
The wago connectors have small ports at the end that allow for test probes to be inserted without the need to remove the installed cables if you are fault finding and checking for a voltage. Wagos are produced by a German company and wagos is pronounced Vargo’s. Available from places like Screwfix, TLC and most electrical wholesalers. Another great informative video Charlie.
There's a little mark on the side of the Wago showing how much sheath you need to strip. If you don't want to hot glue, they also sell various kinds of carriers that you can clip the connectors into. Oh, top tip: keep your fingers away from those spring loaded levers, they'll give you a heck of a smack.
Wagos (221 series) are an absolute boon for electrical work. I use them for all kinds of things. They will securely hold everthing from a 2.5mm ring main wire down to the pins on a Dupont connector jumper wire - such as we use with breadboard electronics. They are one of things that I frequently ask myself... "However did I do without these little beauties?"
Great video as always. I like the idea ( not that it was theirs) for the magnetic coupling and the Bluetooth DCC. Bewildered that they only really care about LNER steam locomotives. When LMS and Southern barely get a look in.
I very much admire your progress Charlie, and I watch your endeavours on a regular basis. I have been planning an 009 layout for about 2 years now, and collecting various bits and pieces. Due to my living in a very small flat I’m trying to work something into just a 2 foot by 4 foot board. I’m amazed at the cost, and the skills needed. I never would have thought that building even such a small layout could be so complex. Respect to you sir, all the best, and very best wishes to you and yours in 2023.
Hi Charlie, great video as always. I also use tortoise motors and also drill out the holes as you do, I have had only one failure in 12 years which was due to minute bits of plastic jamming the gears, I'm fairly certain it was down to my drilling, I now cover the operating slot with masking tape during the drilling process and if drilling holes in the baseboard close to motors.
Brilliant Charlie. My stage one section is 2200mm x 1850mm and I have hinged the board along the 2200mm side.This allows me access to the underside of the whole section. It's man age thing....
I want to thank you for the rail joiner trick. That alone was worth watching the whole video. Great work. And those connectors look just the treat, especially given that wiring is one of those things I like to put off in favor of modeling scenery. I have all of my mainline track in, half ballasted and the next step is working on industrial sidings. But first! Tree building and mountain creation. Thanks again for the information.
Ive been using Wago connectors for years. They are really good, reliable connectors. No screwing involved and easy to disassemble if required. I bought mine in a large box that has different connectors, IE 2 way 3 way and 5 way in different sizes. I also use the 12 way male and female plug in connectors. Again easy to disassemble if needed.
I gave up buying any locos or rolling stock when prices went through the roof (N Gauge). I now buy good quality second hand older stock and modify it although even that is getting expensive. Switching rubbish Peco plastic dirt collecting wheels for instance. I need just over 800 axles in total and when I started they were £3 for 10 axles. Now £18 for 10 axles. I am DC only bot the Wago blocks will some in useful for many other uses, so thanks for the tip. Great video as always. Thanks Charlie.
Hi Charlie, thanks for showing us the Wago connecters, in South Africa they only seem to advertise the three slot versions. Its good to see how they work, thought it was similar to suitcase clips. Keep well!
I've used connectors that are cheaper and look like the Wago ones - they're rated the same as Wago and as I'm using them on my layout the ratings, even if they're a little off, work well. There are other types where the connector is a through connector too. That way you can use it to extend a length of 2 or 3 coloured wires that aren't inter-connected. (Not sure if that's explained well - think of mains cable connections 3 wires in, 3 wires out or 2 wires in 2 wires out). I'm not sure I'd be happy with mains voltages on them but for 12v- 24v I'm happy.
After a while, this all becomes repetitive, doesn't it? You've installed and wired over 100 switch machines and their turnouts, and laid tons of track. But, it all has to be done to make everything work! Hence, your schedule. Charlie, you are a rock! I always learn something from your videos, and this one doesn't disappoint. Thanks for the lesson!
Charlie Wago also make various sizes of boxes that the connectors can be placed in my son is a builder and he often uses both the connectors and the boxes I must admit that I hadn’t thought of using them on the railway. What a great idea.
Hi Charlie. Wago connectors have been around a while in the electrical trade. The main reason for them is to adhere to the UK wiring regs by offering a “maintenance free” connection. A screw terminal has to be periodically inspected and tightened. The wago connector does not require this. They are also great for a temporary “Jerry” rig to make sure it all works before you commit to soldering, and realise you have forgotten something!! 😂 Great video keep it up, love the channel.
Hi Charlie - I have used the Wago blocks myself and yes they are very useful when under the board. I also, a while back, took your advice and used the block terminals and found them ideal for ganging together all the dropper wires and for block detection. As far as Hornby are concerned I just do not understand why they have launched yet another scale, TT. As an N scale modeler, (due to the limitations of my shed), I invested a lot of money on buying N scale products and also find it somewhat limited as to what I can buy, loco and stock wise. I simply cannot afford to splash out on a new scale. I suppose there must be a market for it but I for one will not be shopping in it. Regards Steve
Hi Charlie - Brilliant update, nothing wrong with a refresher. I cannot believe it, I have finally been using something for ages that you have just found out about, Wago terminal blocks. Great for lighting or tidying up behind a socket that has loads of wires.
Great video Charlie. Nothing new about that. I’ve looked at ( it not used) the Wago connectors and they look like a great product. I’ve seen in various places that it’s quite possible to put more than one wire into a single Wago slot if you need to. This could be handy if you have, say, four wires and only a three way connector. I haven’t done it myself but I’ve seen it mentioned a number of times, and they look strong enough that it seems reasonable. PS. The Excel file is on its way for the last few videos.
Hi Charlie, top tips this week, very useful and great entertainment as well! What more could anyone ask. Thank you for showing us the wiring again it is much appreciated. as always looking forward to the next installment.
That thicker wire for the tortoise motor is what I did as well. I have them mounted up to 10" below the track level (our bench work is 2 layers of 4" thick foam), so it is absolutely necessary to use something more substantial. We used 16GA wire, it has worked fantastic, but connecting to the switch was tricky!
Watching any of the model railway presenters in which ever gauge gives me great inspiration and motivation. All you guys on this RUclips do a great job. Keep the videos coming, Charlie. All the best for 2023
@@ChadwickModelRailway My wife passed away last month, not really into model trains, but she liked to watch your videos with me, and knew your voice without seeing you. You were her favorite.
Great information, don’t know about the Pepsi Max product placement moment though 😉 The Hornby announcement was great, honest and transparent. Love the HM7000 presentation, as it could prove a game changer. Happy to wait for 6202 Turbomotive. Really appreciate you talking in correct cable gauge. Glad you lost the tunnel, it didn’t seem to work when you first rolled it out. Very best regards
On the hornby question, i believe it is a bit of catch up with the previous lockdowns etc and also maybe hornby, peco etc are also feeling the pinch. Charlie keep up the good work, always look forward to your videos, very inspiring
Another interesting video Charlie, amazing how much wiring there is on one relatively 'simple' board, plus all the electronics that go with it. I did watch your video on couplings and you'll be in trouble if Margaret watches that one
One other thing (sorry, i forgot to mention how much i enjoy your videos; have watched them all and as a youthful 67 year old they have helped me get back into modelling big time!)....one other thing, what size Wago connectors should I be buying for typical dcc wiring?
Good for you for soldering feeders to your track. Useful video as usual and I appreciate your candour regarding 'inattention' which I find inspiring allowing me to not beat my self up when I do the same. I just purchased my first DCC controller and bought as a bundle wire of appropriate gauge for bus and feeder as well as T-Tap connectors for joining feeders to the bus and wired fishplates to join feeders to the track. No soldering. The Wago connectors do look interesting. A pin vise is also useful for those who assemble plastic models to drill out holes to small to receive the part from the original tooling.
The Wago type connectors are commonplace (here) in France and in Germany. I can get them at my local B&Q (yes, we really do have B&Q - even if it is called Castorama) and they are used in housing circuits where often in the UK and the US (in the past?) screw-on ceramic caps were used to protect two or three wires twisted together.
Hi Charlie I agree so much with the target idea. Whilst there are work, family and social events to deal with, I think it is really important to set yourself short term goals in the hobby. I have been focussed on building a viaduct diorama since Christmas and it is so good to get it all done on time. Promotes actual achievement and wellbeing. It
Charlie, after seeing your method I moved all my layout’s electronics on a hinged panel like you. It is truly a life saver! Much easier to work on, crawling underneath is a real pain after a while. I also think that the look of the electronics on the panel is cool! It short of showcases the work you put in it, instead of always hiding it underneath the boards. Thanks for the tip and keep up your amazing work!
@@christrickett3291 Yes I am from Italy! You mean you didn't know railway modelling is a thing here? The modelling scene is pretty serious. It might not have many followers but the quality standard of the models is usually very high.
Charlie, I'll add my thanks for the video; nice to the progress thus far. One comment regarding your tortoise wiring, rather than solder to the device I started using the Accu-Lites Snaps, which turn this into a screw connection. While they are $6 each, they make changing out machines so bloody simple; merely slide the Snap off, throw in the new tortoise, slide the Snap back on and off you go. Highly recommend this option. Cheers
I understand your point DH but with around 60 motors the price soon mounts up. In the UK they are around £8 each. Furthermore, I have never had a tortoise fail! Have you had many? Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway I've abt 30 turnouts so agree order of magnitude not the same. I don't have enough elapsed time of use to have failures so time will tell. The other consideration is that my track is not laid on wood sections that lift out like yours so soldering under the board and overhead is a bit more than I want to attempt. Thank you sir. Cheers
09:30 To save you soldering two bits of wire to your point, you could take the feed to the point motor for switching the frog polarity directly from your track bus, if more convenient to do so..
@@ChadwickModelRailway You're probably right Charlie. It is indeed very situational. On my own layout, I am using servos to move the points, which don't have the ability of polarity switching, so the wires have to be taken away from the point to a relay.
I also take the frog switch feeds from the track bus because it's easier for me than soldering to a point. Although I always solder links to avoid reliance on contact to the point blades.
Excellent episode! You touched on visibility into tunnels which hit a nerve for me - something I always wince at is when a layout has a gentle curve heading to a tunnel mouth but just inside the tunnel mouth you can see the coach roofs suddenly veer off at 30 degree angles to one another cos there is a radius one curve just inside there! I know that this is a space thing and that its often unavoidable, but it always visually jars for me! I always think that if the tunnel mouth were maybe just a bit more forward that odd (and illusion spoiling) sight might not be visible.
Hi Charlie. Yet another informative video from you. Rather than watching the Hornby release video, I've watched a review of it on RUclips from Sam of Sam's Trains. The main point of interest was their new HM7000 system for controlling trains by Bluetooth, which is a great idea in principle, but after looking at the Hornby site, I can't immediately see that this new system can also control points, signals, etc., as you can with DCC.
Another interesting video Charlie. You asked what we thought of the new Hornby releases I was expecting a bit more than what they announced but with the supply issues I am not really surprised. For me the stand out announcement was the hm7000 which would appear to make dcc much simpler for digital neanderthals like me I personally think I will purchase a chip to try hopefully this will be a great way to get youngsters into the hobby due to lower prices. All the best mate looking forward to the next video.
You always provide excellent tips and info Charlie, thank you. From your earlier video’s I have used the Piko track screws on my layout and found them fantastic, especially when you find a mistake with the ability to realign to correct, cheers Paul.
Wagon connectors need the cable to be stripped 11mm. There is a guide on the side of the Wago. I use them in my electronics development business for building test fixtures that I can reconfigure. Great bits of kit and a good alternative to connector blocks (cheaper too!). You can twist a number of cables together (upto 4mm squared) and feed into a single 'port'.
Great video as always. I understand about the MOJO thing... I've only just started back on my layout after 13 months off... I go all in for short bursts.. and then I need to go and find something else to do until I find the urge again.. So right now I've got the drive and really enjoying making the progress on my layout. I did my wiring the same for under the track. I always didn't understand why you would put it on the sides, when putting it in the centre underneath hides it and makes it look far more realistic.. Look forward to watching your next update. Craig.
Hi Charlie great info and tips as always, being DC I have still used a bus wiring arrangement (black to the back-thanks). Regarding Hornby's announcement I like some of your other subscribers think that items are getting too expensive and talking about Hornby did anyone else have issues with trying to watch series two on Yesterday last Monday at 8PM!! Always look forward to watching your videos, take care regards Barry..
Thanks Charlie great video just ordered some Wago blocks. I have been using telephone crimp jellys these will be better as if something needs to be change as it does there is no problem just lift the tab and start again. GREAT
WAGO Pronounced ‘vah-go’ are brilliant connectors that I have used a lot in industrial work. They do manufacture a long strip version in conventional terminal format, which directly replaces your prehistoric terminal strips. The downside is that they can only be purchased in large quantities, so in this case the prehistoric version wins. I have used the HobbyTrax alternatives for connecting section droppers to bus wires, and am very pleased with the compact and tidy appearance of the completed wiring. If I have one left when I’ve finished, I’ll send you one to review.
I've used the knock off wagos they work just fine I use a different style of terminal block there known here in the usa as European type terminal blocks there nylon with metal connector bars they work extremely well in a module type layout I'm actually starting a t trak ( n guage) layout and I'm going to start filming soon on the construction soon
Another enjoyable video and good to see progress and hear the tips. A comment on the Wago connectors. I learned about these about 5 years ago and used them for a big house wiring job and think they are the best things since sliced bread. They are generally used for solid core wiring although they can be used for stranded wire. The only thing is what you were experiencing and that is the stranded cores splaying out making it a bit more difficult to insert. To overcome this I put a ferrule crimp on the wire. This makes it like a solid wire and easy to insert. Only takes a few seconds and saves time later. You have to use a fairly small ferrule (approx 1mm) and make sure it can reach to the very back of the Wago hole.
HI Charlie Just had to rejoin as a patreon Credit card was comprised and cancelled. Only missed one episode and got it anyway on You tube. As always enlightening and entertaining with humour. Thanks. Howard
Thanks Charlie - another great watch. Your 'electronic' are beyond me at this time - I have just completed 70 years of modelling so not going down your route although if re-starting it clearly is the way to go. Reference Hornby - they have lost the plot by producing masses of A4s AGAIN following the 'gatherings' etc. How many A4s are people likely to 'collect' at these prices? Also how many of the new 'streamline' 4-6-0 locomotives are people going to buy - not only are they restricted in numbers (only 2) but they had a very limited area of use in real life so only a few modellers could use them.
Video: Great as always. Great to see your plan of action with a board per month and then filler videos on other topics. It works really well and I enjoy them. RE Hornby announcement; considering this is a catch up year, there is certainly a lot on offer, particularly towards limited edition runs. HM7000 is also, for me at least as a legacy DC owner, the biggest attraction here. I've not used DCC but loved the idea when I was younger and now wish to have something set up using it. One thing that appears to be missed/not mentioned is the control of solenoid-operated accessories. Their FAQ so far has nothing about it. William
Hi Charlie, I must say it I agree that the cutting idea not only will benefit the track plan but will enhance the visual interest there. Maybe you could have an old stone footbridge over it which was provided when the line was built to protect access to an old farm track? You might even model a chap herding cows over it! 😄 Those Wago blocks look awesome. I actually quite like soldering, but for something like points where they are susceptible to faults and likely to need extraction for maintenance, they seem ideal! Likewise for semaphore signals! 😎 Cheers mate, have a great week 🍾🍀👍
Excellent video Charlie. I particularly like the Wago connectors. Very timely as I am currently working on droppers around my layout and get very frustrated with chock blocks, especially with my failing eyesight. I sincerely admire your patience and motivation to keep going and find your videos very inspiring. Thanks for sharing. Roy.
Hi Charlie, thanks for an interesting and slightly daunting video, your skill and experience is reassuring though. My layout is still in my head and I'll be visiting your earlier episodes for guidance regarding the wiring when I finally get under way. I think Hornby are all out on TT at the moment and I get that. Only thing that grabbed me was the Castle, but I suspect it's a re-release. Their prices seem too high and I'm glad other manufacturers are treating modellers better in these cash-strapped times. My last three purchases have all been Dapol locos which are easily as good, if not better than the Hornby products.
Great video again Charlie, look forward to watching you're videos and the progress you make 👍. In regards to the Hornby announcement, in my personal opinion, I think it's good that they're having a catch up year ,as it were, with COVID delays and all. Not saying they're normally great with timing but it certainly didn't help plus China are having more problems at the moment so be interesting to see what the can release. I also saw you at Warley challenging Simon regarding TT scale which was interesting to hear what he had to say. Again great video great tips great enthusiasm/humour keep it up 👍👍👍
Hello charlie , been watching your youtube video's for some time now and your my favourite got to channel and your expertise and knowledge is second to none iv learned so much watching you and been doing my own layout which is nearly ready to landscape after several changes over the last 2 years and finally getting to what i want it to be and some valid advice from you on your channels has helped me in a very big way. After seeing dcc pop up almost everywhere in direct complicity it was whilst watching one of your episodes on dcc that explained in great length in accurate detail whats involved and im glad to say i swiched over and not regretted once even though its getting very expensive hobby to be in it is a love affair after all . Thanks for all your video tutorials, Regards kev
Tip when stip wires. Dont strip the tube off compleatly, just make sure the tube is separated and then grab the tube with your fingers, twist and pull off. No more punktured thunbs or pointingfingers from the wires inside the tubing. Thans for yet another great video Charley.
Great video Charlie, and with some really useful tips. Those little Wago (spelling) connectors look very useful. Good to see you are able and willing to revise your plans and am pleased the short tunnel has become a cutting. The washplant is an important addition too. Hornby 2023. Well what can I say. Positives are the Salmon wagon, hopefully of a different design to the existing Flangeway product and the Bogie Bolster C albeit it lettered as Macaw B and a Bogie Bolster C. The TTAs are also a great addition to replace the rather "basic" existing product. Simon Kohler is quite clearly exhibiting his fetish for Hornby Dublo and seems to think the Hornby target customers have an unending supply of the folding stuff and dhare his obsession with all things Gresley and Thompson. Is there really a need or a desire to have six different "Flying Scotsmans" and gawd knows how many A4s ? Surely a planned release of one a year would enable to customers to buy them all, and would guarantee the sales to Hornby, but only the well heeled could afford to order and purchase all six in one go. Similarly with the B17/5 - maybe the LNER apple green one this year and the BR one next year. The Deltic DP1 is pure indulgence in my opinion. I certainly wont be buying one because I don't want one, and even if I did, my choice would be the Barwell version anyway. I do though hope the Hornby Dublo branding sees it become a success. There are hundreds of "virgin" locomotives for Hornby to pick at without duplicating existing products - unless of course they warrant updating. In Hornby's case most of the BR diesel locos with the exception of 31 50 56 and 60 really need rebreathing - mostly the ex Lima products like the 20 37 and their own 25 and 47.
I couldn’t agree more Phil. The only thing that raised my eyebrow, was the indulgence in the Bluetooth DCC application. Stay safe mate, regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie. Great tip re the Wago's so thank you. I'm about to build a large layout, 28' x 15' ovals, so I think I'll be ordering some to make life easier. With refernce to Hornby. It's all well & good bringing out new models, but I'd rather they hurried up with the Black 5 & Scotsman loco's with steam that I've had on order from the initial announcement. Apparently, the Black 5 will now be available at the end of next year. Unbelievable. Keep up the good work. Cheers. Les XRN.
Lots of useful knowledge in this video, thanks Charlie. It always good to have a plan and a target date. I’ve used the Wagos and they are pretty good, much better than the ‘chocolate block’ terminal blocks. Thanks again.
Another great video, Charlie. I'm currently designing my new layout in AnyRail and am paying attention to your fantastic advice on how to avoid S-curves! I have very mixed feelings about the Hornby announcement. On the one hand, I don't have a Class 43 train and I want one circa 1980 (+/-), so I was interested in seeing that. Like other commentators, I find their pricing (and Bachmann's as well) very steep when you consider what Accurascale are offering in terms of both quality and price. Their new decoders look interesting - certainly a lot cheaper than Zimo - and I see where Simon was coming from about making it easier to 'play' trains. But I can't yet see quite how Bluetooth operation would fit into a set-up that uses block detection and computer control. We will have to watch with interest; either their whizzy idea is ground breaking or it is limited to play sets rather than more complex layouts.
Thank you Charlie for another informative and inspirational video. I'm very impressed with the Wago connectors and they are readily available here in Sweden.
Thanks Charlie for another great video. For the bus wiring on my layout I’ve been using the Wago blocks for a while. It’s certainly a lot easier than soldering while hanging upside down under my baseboards. Unfortunately it’s too late for me to make my baseboards removable. As far as the Hornby announcements are concerned there were a few offerings that caught my eye but at the prices Hornby are asking my credit card will be staying in my pocket for the time being. Electricity and gas have a higher priority 😢
I couldn’t agree more David. The price of these new locomotives is astronomical. Regards, Charlie
And to remember they’re all made in China for about 50/- bob and selling for over £320.00 quid 😳
@@ChadwickModelRailway I can go to one shop and pay 400.00 but if I was to drive 110 km I can get the same train for 300.00 and thats for N scale with sound but not too many around.
Yes, looking forward to seeing how you wire a tortoise motor to a DS64 with feedback for Train Controller as there are no video's out there on how to do this. Many thanks Charlie
Rest assured Nigel, it is on the list. Regards Charlie
Great video - I am just getting into model railways (my dad had one about 30 years ago!) And am contemplating my first layout - really inspiring to watch this come together - have lately binged almost all of your videos!
I’m so pleased that you find the channel inspiring mate. Regards, Charlie
Another great vid. Thanks Charlie. It was a pleasure meeting you at the Frome model railway show last Saturday. Always look forward to your videos. All the best. Warren.
Thanks Warren, it’s great to meet up with you too. Stay safe mate, regards Charlie.
"Campbell's Model Railroading" on RUclips, January 2023 episode at about three minutes in talks about his discovery of WAGO connections. I've commented to him about your discovery of the connections... and that you two would get along if you ever met. (He's in the U.S.) His association is also on "What's Neat This Week in Model Railroading #221 January 14th 2023", to which is where I found Campbell Rice's own YT channel. Talk about Network Railing, eh? (Pun intended.) John BC, Canada
Thanks for the info John ,I shall certainly check out the channels. Regards, Charlie
There are also mounting carriers available for the Wago blocks. part numbers 221-522 / 221-523 / 221-525.
Thanks Stefaan, regards Charlie
Thanks for a good start to the year. With regard to stripping wire for the WAGO connectors, the length you need to strip is marked on the side of the connector so you should never have the problem of not enough area to grip or have exposed wiring sticking out.
Thanks Peter, useful advice.
Regards Charlie
Great tip regarding the fish plates! I had to laugh when you called the choco block a lash up as my whole layout is wired like that 😂
Do I detect an air of guilt.
If it works Dan, who cares.
Regards Charlie
Aloha Charlie,
On Holiday Vacation in Hawaii and still enjoyed Chadwick over low tea and pineapple.
A quick use for WAGO wire connectors. You were pointing out your technique for wiring and planning of switch motors, or practical any connections you're installing blind, well here is my £2.20.
Take a pair of two box WAGO junctions. Attach permanently to one side a short wire with an alligator clip. Leave the other box empty. Do this twice for each color of dropper wire you will be testing polarity or location. I do have three such pre-assemblies (Red, Black, or Green lines).
Now to the wires you are installing clip those stripped line to the other side of the WAGO box temporarily. Now you can test your currants direction before doing your final connections.
BTW. I love your idea of doing your underside connections from having the sub-roadbed tip on it's end. My roadbed I have built since the 1990's has been attached to the bench work by piano hinges secured to the rear of the structure. Now in my 70's it has become a less painful system to do under layout wiring and updates. In February my family, friends, rail club buddy's, and self begin to reinstall the layout after 10 months of Train Room distruction and rehabing.
When completed ALL sub-roadbed will be a flip top away from the front facia.
NXT time I write I may be back in New York State. 'Til Then Ta.
Jim on Vaca 🫖🥪🥮🍍🍾🥂
A great comment Jim. Enjoy your holiday in the sunshine, regards, Charlie
Great method for hiding wires, thats one issue I had on my last layout attempt, will use this method soon when I start the layout again =. Cheers for sharing Charlie
Thanks QC, I’m so pleased that you found the video useful.
Regards Charlie.
Wago connectors are really great, very quick to make a connection.
We used them on many temporary and permanent assemblies - they last years even in high-vibration environments.
Thanks Rob, for your reassurance. Regards, Charlie
...cutting with flying arches... add in an interesting engineering feature you rarely see modelled.
I’ll have to look up “flying arches”.
Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway some nice IKB designed ones still around in south wales that would fit neatly into the western region theme of things
Thanks Charlie, I appreciate your flexibility in showing new items to us, to help make installation a lot simpler! Realistic scheduling on keep the old mojo going often a challenge when creating a model railway!
Thanks Bill, I’m so pleased you find the videos. Useful. Regards, Charlie
Great video as usual. The neatness of your wiring is something to aspire to. Have you considered volts drop issues using the WAGO connectors for your bus wire, especially on a large layout. 20milliOhms per contact so 40milliohm per break in bus wire. If drawing 1 Amp that is 0.4volts if you have 10 breaks in the bus wire. I like the dcc concepts solder tags you demonstrated in video 175 as cable is not cut. But once the wiring has been teed off the bus the Wago type connectors are a good idea.
An excellent comments, Justin. And something well worth considering, regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie. Whilst I accept your personal preference for the Tortoise point motors I think your video is one of the best I’ve seen to demonstrate the advantages of DCC Cobalt Digital ip motors.
I’m so pleased that you found it useful Alan. Regards, Charlie
HI Charlie ,This was a very good detailed instruction on using point motors and installation. Thanks
Thanks Fred, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards Charlie
Great Charlie! Keep up the good work.
Thanks David, it’s great to have you onboard. Regards Charlie
Charlie,
Installing fishplates using a piece of bent rail - brilliant!
Have just ordered WAGO connectors.
Great tips. I live in Washington State in the US and don't have a club to join within 150 miles.....
Just signed up for Patreon.
Be well,
Trevor
Thanks for your support Trevor, it’s very much appreciated. Regards Charlie
Another great video. I used Wago connectors in my house when replacing light switches and outlets. Much easier than fighting with the old wire nuts.
I must confess Steve that kind of wiring is just so alien to me. Regards, Charlie
Excellent Charlie. I made the error of having to lay on my back 👀👀👀
Good luck under there mate. It’s a nightmare, regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie, another fantastic video, it is great to listen! I didn't know about these WAGO terminal blocks. In 15"58' you said: 'bringing new bus wire in', but it should be rather 'bringing new dropper wire or connector in' ;).
Thanks Filip, yes I did notice that. Regards Charlie
The cork on the bottom of the point motor sould work with any type to reduce the noise and is a great idea that I hadn't thought of. Thanks Charlie.
Every day is a school day LK. Regards, Charlie
Well as usual another very informative video with lots of interesting detail on How to with your layout, i like your mention of MOJO, to me that is when you lose enthusiasm on your hobby which i have suffered from, but with your detailed videos and those of Underground Eric they do give me encouragement to get back into it, Thank you.
As for Hornbys 2023 release video, i found the Blutooth control interesting as with the New model of Deltic, but to me the prices of new models are ridiculous, especially those of us who live downunder as it is twice that price plus expensive postage, and for the record i cannot understand Hornby doing TT120, if they had to do it why not TT110, as the original scale, Keep up the great work.
Thanks Mark, I’m so pleased that I’m helping you to regain your enthusiasm.
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I have modified my Tortoise and Smail point motors to avoid having to solder on to the pads, instead the wires are attached to a screw terminal which is then plugged into the modified tortoise point motor. I have sent you some photos of a modified tortoise, it makes it so much easier to replace the point motors and also if you want to test them.
That’s interesting Peter, I shall take a look in the morning.
However, how often have you found a tortoise fail?
Regards Charlie
Another great video Charlie your certainly starting 2023 with a bang, over 50 years modelling railways and I’ve never seen anyone put fishplates on like that !! So simple but will save me hour’s fiddling with tweezers and pliers lol thank you 👍
Thanks Andy, just remember that every day is a school day. Regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie. Great to meet you at the Frome model Railway show last week and thanks for your advice on model railway controllers. Superb video as always and you are a great inspiration to many people , myself included
That’s very kind of you to say so Jeremy. Good luck with your project.
Regards, Charlie
The wago connectors have small ports at the end that allow for test probes to be inserted without the need to remove the installed cables if you are fault finding and checking for a voltage. Wagos are produced by a German company and wagos is pronounced Vargo’s. Available from places like Screwfix, TLC and most electrical wholesalers. Another great informative video Charlie.
Thanks Ian, much appreciated, I’ll check out my connectors later.
Regards Charlie
There's a little mark on the side of the Wago showing how much sheath you need to strip. If you don't want to hot glue, they also sell various kinds of carriers that you can clip the connectors into. Oh, top tip: keep your fingers away from those spring loaded levers, they'll give you a heck of a smack.
Wagos (221 series) are an absolute boon for electrical work. I use them for all kinds of things. They will securely hold everthing from a 2.5mm ring main wire down to the pins on a Dupont connector jumper wire - such as we use with breadboard electronics. They are one of things that I frequently ask myself... "However did I do without these little beauties?"
Great video as always. I like the idea ( not that it was theirs) for the magnetic coupling and the Bluetooth DCC. Bewildered that they only really care about LNER steam locomotives. When LMS and Southern barely get a look in.
An interesting comment mate. Surprisingly, the Bluetooth DCC is a system used in the USA. Regards, Charlie
I very much admire your progress Charlie, and I watch your endeavours on a regular basis. I have been planning an 009 layout for about 2 years now, and collecting various bits and pieces. Due to my living in a very small flat I’m trying to work something into just a 2 foot by 4 foot board. I’m amazed at the cost, and the skills needed. I never would have thought that building even such a small layout could be so complex. Respect to you sir, all the best, and very best wishes to you and yours in 2023.
That’s very kind of you to say so, Nigel. Good luck with your project, regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie, great video as always. I also use tortoise motors and also drill out the holes as you do, I have had only one failure in 12 years which was due to minute bits of plastic jamming the gears, I'm fairly certain it was down to my drilling, I now cover the operating slot with masking tape during the drilling process and if drilling holes in the baseboard close to motors.
Hi John, yes, the tortoise point motors are such a reliable commodity, I wouldn’t dream of using anything else.
Regards Charlie
Brilliant Charlie.
My stage one section is 2200mm x 1850mm and I have hinged the board along the 2200mm side.This allows me access to the underside of the whole section. It's man age thing....
A very sensible design, mate. Regards, Charlie.
Charlie what incredible work,I’m currently starting my own lay out in my garage.
Good luck with your project Daniel, please remember it’s all in the planning. Regards Charlie
I want to thank you for the rail joiner trick. That alone was worth watching the whole video. Great work. And those connectors look just the treat, especially given that wiring is one of those things I like to put off in favor of modeling scenery. I have all of my mainline track in, half ballasted and the next step is working on industrial sidings. But first! Tree building and mountain creation. Thanks again for the information.
Thanks Richard, I’m so pleased that you find my videos useful mate. Regards, Charlie
Ive been using Wago connectors for years. They are really good, reliable connectors. No screwing involved and easy to disassemble if required. I bought mine in a large box that has different connectors, IE 2 way 3 way and 5 way in different sizes. I also use the 12 way male and female plug in connectors. Again easy to disassemble if needed.
Yes Sam, they are clearly a decent product, however, it’s taken me years to discover them! Regards, Charlie
I gave up buying any locos or rolling stock when prices went through the roof (N Gauge). I now buy good quality second hand older stock and modify it although even that is getting expensive. Switching rubbish Peco plastic dirt collecting wheels for instance. I need just over 800 axles in total and when I started they were £3 for 10 axles. Now £18 for 10 axles. I am DC only bot the Wago blocks will some in useful for many other uses, so thanks for the tip.
Great video as always. Thanks Charlie.
Thanks Bob, I’m so pleased that you found the Wago’s useful.
Regards Charlie
Congrats on changing the tunnel to a cut. I considered posting about it but saw that the point had already been made.
Yes I missed that obvious alternative Donald. Regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie, thanks for showing us the Wago connecters, in South Africa they only seem to advertise the three slot versions. Its good to see how they work, thought it was similar to suitcase clips. Keep well!
Thanks Jade, and I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. Regards, Charlie
I've used connectors that are cheaper and look like the Wago ones - they're rated the same as Wago and as I'm using them on my layout the ratings, even if they're a little off, work well. There are other types where the connector is a through connector too. That way you can use it to extend a length of 2 or 3 coloured wires that aren't inter-connected. (Not sure if that's explained well - think of mains cable connections 3 wires in, 3 wires out or 2 wires in 2 wires out). I'm not sure I'd be happy with mains voltages on them but for 12v- 24v I'm happy.
Yes I’m of the same opinion mate. It’s okay for Model Railway wiring but house wiring is a different kettle of fish. Regards, Charlie
Enjoyed your video and liked.
Thanks MMR, much appreciated.
Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Thanks Charlie and late happy new year to you.
After a while, this all becomes repetitive, doesn't it? You've installed and wired over 100 switch machines and their turnouts, and laid tons of track. But, it all has to be done to make everything work! Hence, your schedule. Charlie, you are a rock! I always learn something from your videos, and this one doesn't disappoint. Thanks for the lesson!
That’s very kind of you to say so Pat. Regards, Charlie
Saw the hack to use a rail piece to put fishplates on in a previous video and have been using it ever since. Great time saver/frustration reducer!!
I’m so happy that you found it useful Phillip.
Regards Charlie
Charlie Wago also make various sizes of boxes that the connectors can be placed in my son is a builder and he often uses both the connectors and the boxes I must admit that I hadn’t thought of using them on the railway. What a great idea.
Hi Mike, they will be useful in various wiring scenarios, but not all.
I can’t see myself using them for 230v ac!
Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie. Wago connectors have been around a while in the electrical trade. The main reason for them is to adhere to the UK wiring regs by offering a “maintenance free” connection. A screw terminal has to be periodically inspected and tightened. The wago connector does not require this. They are also great for a temporary “Jerry” rig to make sure it all works before you commit to soldering, and realise you have forgotten something!! 😂 Great video keep it up, love the channel.
I’m so pleased you enjoyed it Andy. These connectors really are an eye-opener and clearly my eyes have been closed! Regards, Charlie
Wago cables - Thank You Charlie, you just saved me nearly a £100 on a soldering iron plus accessories and the rest of my hair :)
Glad I could help Steve. Regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie - I have used the Wago blocks myself and yes they are very useful when under the board. I also, a while back, took your advice and used the block terminals and found them ideal for ganging together all the dropper wires and for block detection. As far as Hornby are concerned I just do not understand why they have launched yet another scale, TT. As an N scale modeler, (due to the limitations of my shed), I invested a lot of money on buying N scale products and also find it somewhat limited as to what I can buy, loco and stock wise. I simply cannot afford to splash out on a new scale. I suppose there must be a market for it but I for one will not be shopping in it.
Regards
Steve
I agree with your comments. Some careful EBay purchases of N Gauge rolling stock have had to happen, to populate my era 5 layout.
Excellent points gentleman, only time will tell on this one. Regards, Charlie
Hornby 2023 - I like the idea of a decoder you can easily change the sound file on. Might inspire other manufactures to do something similar.
Apparently it’s been used already in the USA Kyle. We shall see if the other big manufacturers get involved.
Regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie - Brilliant update, nothing wrong with a refresher.
I cannot believe it, I have finally been using something for ages that you have just found out about, Wago terminal blocks.
Great for lighting or tidying up behind a socket that has loads of wires.
Well that’s reassuring, Chris. I must be the last person to discover them. Regards Charlie
Great video Charlie. Nothing new about that. I’ve looked at ( it not used) the Wago connectors and they look like a great product. I’ve seen in various places that it’s quite possible to put more than one wire into a single Wago slot if you need to. This could be handy if you have, say, four wires and only a three way connector. I haven’t done it myself but I’ve seen it mentioned a number of times, and they look strong enough that it seems reasonable.
PS. The Excel file is on its way for the last few videos.
Yes Ron, these connectors are very versatile.
Many thanks again for the spreadsheet, regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie, top tips this week, very useful and great entertainment as well! What more could anyone ask. Thank you for showing us the wiring again it is much appreciated. as always looking forward to the next installment.
Thanks Andrew, I’m so pleased you found this instalment interesting. Regards Charlie
That thicker wire for the tortoise motor is what I did as well. I have them mounted up to 10" below the track level (our bench work is 2 layers of 4" thick foam), so it is absolutely necessary to use something more substantial. We used 16GA wire, it has worked fantastic, but connecting to the switch was tricky!
Clever minds think alike (hopefully).
Regards Charlie
Watching any of the model railway presenters in which ever gauge gives me great inspiration and motivation. All you guys on this RUclips do a great job. Keep the videos coming, Charlie. All the best for 2023
Thanks Stewart, that’s most kind. Regards Charlie
Always enjoy your videos. Thats why you're #1.
That’s very kind of you to say so mate. Regards, Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway My wife passed away last month, not really into model trains, but she liked to watch your videos with me, and knew your voice without seeing you. You were her favorite.
I’m so sorry to hear of your dreadful news. Regards Charlie
Great information, don’t know about the Pepsi Max product placement moment though 😉
The Hornby announcement was great, honest and transparent.
Love the HM7000 presentation, as it could prove a game changer.
Happy to wait for 6202 Turbomotive.
Really appreciate you talking in correct cable gauge.
Glad you lost the tunnel, it didn’t seem to work when you first rolled it out.
Very best regards
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. Only time will tell if Hornby is Bluetooth system will be reliable. Regards, Charlie
On the hornby question, i believe it is a bit of catch up with the previous lockdowns etc and also maybe hornby, peco etc are also feeling the pinch. Charlie keep up the good work, always look forward to your videos, very inspiring
Thanks Douglas, I’m so pleased you enjoyed the videos. Regards, Charlie
Another interesting video Charlie, amazing how much wiring there is on one relatively 'simple' board, plus all the electronics that go with it. I did watch your video on couplings and you'll be in trouble if Margaret watches that one
Life on the edge, Martyn, I like to live dangerously! Regards, Charlie
That fish plate tip: 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Every day is a school day mate. Regards, Charlie
One other thing (sorry, i forgot to mention how much i enjoy your videos; have watched them all and as a youthful 67 year old they have helped me get back into modelling big time!)....one other thing, what size Wago connectors should I be buying for typical dcc wiring?
I’m unsure of the complete range Mike. However, in the show more tab, is a link to the ones I bought from Amazon. Regards, Charlie
Thanks for the fish plate tip, I’ve only been struggling to fit them for 50yrs, what a “Twonk” 🤦♂️
Every day is a school day, Colin.
Regards, Charlie
Another great video, Charlie .
Thank you, Mark, you’re most kind. Regards Charlie
I use Wago connectors to connect branches in bus wiring. I use t-tap connectors for droppers. I don't solder under the layout.
Great use of these items James.
Regards Charlie
Good for you for soldering feeders to your track. Useful video as usual and I appreciate your candour regarding 'inattention' which I find inspiring allowing me to not beat my self up when I do the same.
I just purchased my first DCC controller and bought as a bundle wire of appropriate gauge for bus and feeder as well as T-Tap connectors for joining feeders to the bus and wired fishplates to join feeders to the track. No soldering. The Wago connectors do look interesting.
A pin vise is also useful for those who assemble plastic models to drill out holes to small to receive the part from the original tooling.
Thanks Dom, I’m so pleased that you found a video interesting mate.
Regards, Charlie
The Wago type connectors are commonplace (here) in France and in Germany. I can get them at my local B&Q (yes, we really do have B&Q - even if it is called Castorama) and they are used in housing circuits where often in the UK and the US (in the past?) screw-on ceramic caps were used to protect two or three wires twisted together.
I clearly am the last modeller to discover these Timothy! Regards, Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Wouldn't be too sure, Charlie. I really couldn't say if they are yet so commonplace in the UK...
Hi Charlie I agree so much with the target idea. Whilst there are work, family and social events to deal with, I think it is really important to set yourself short term goals in the hobby. I have been focussed on building a viaduct diorama since Christmas and it is so good to get it all done on time. Promotes actual achievement and wellbeing.
It
Yes Bob, I couldn’t agree more. Helps to maintain your Mojo. Regards, Charlie
Charlie, after seeing your method I moved all my layout’s electronics on a hinged panel like you. It is truly a life saver! Much easier to work on, crawling underneath is a real pain after a while. I also think that the look of the electronics on the panel is cool! It short of showcases the work you put in it, instead of always hiding it underneath the boards.
Thanks for the tip and keep up your amazing work!
That’s very kind of you to say so AV. Regards, Charlie
Non sapevo che ci fossero dei modelli così in Italia, mai visto. Una presunzione che ci vivi, io suppongo.
@@christrickett3291 Yes I am from Italy! You mean you didn't know railway modelling is a thing here? The modelling scene is pretty serious. It might not have many followers but the quality standard of the models is usually very high.
In english please Chris. Regards Charlie
Charlie, I'll add my thanks for the video; nice to the progress thus far. One comment regarding your tortoise wiring, rather than solder to the device I started using the Accu-Lites Snaps, which turn this into a screw connection. While they are $6 each, they make changing out machines so bloody simple; merely slide the Snap off, throw in the new tortoise, slide the Snap back on and off you go. Highly recommend this option. Cheers
I understand your point DH but with around 60 motors the price soon mounts up. In the UK they are around £8 each.
Furthermore, I have never had a tortoise fail! Have you had many?
Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway I've abt 30 turnouts so agree order of magnitude not the same. I don't have enough elapsed time of use to have failures so time will tell.
The other consideration is that my track is not laid on wood sections that lift out like yours so soldering under the board and overhead is a bit more than I want to attempt. Thank you sir.
Cheers
09:30 To save you soldering two bits of wire to your point, you could take the feed to the point motor for switching the frog polarity directly from your track bus, if more convenient to do so..
I think that it’s sixth of 1, half a dozen of the other, to be honest mate. Regards, Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway You're probably right Charlie. It is indeed very situational. On my own layout, I am using servos to move the points, which don't have the ability of polarity switching, so the wires have to be taken away from the point to a relay.
I also take the frog switch feeds from the track bus because it's easier for me than soldering to a point. Although I always solder links to avoid reliance on contact to the point blades.
@@peterloyley3656 I'm like you Peter, I also solder links so as not to rely on blade contact.
Hi Charlie great tip on the fish plates and the Wago connectors , Thank you Charlie great video again.
Thanks Tony, I’m so pleased that you found the video useful. Regards Charlie
Excellent episode!
You touched on visibility into tunnels which hit a nerve for me - something I always wince at is when a layout has a gentle curve heading to a tunnel mouth but just inside the tunnel mouth you can see the coach roofs suddenly veer off at 30 degree angles to one another cos there is a radius one curve just inside there! I know that this is a space thing and that its often unavoidable, but it always visually jars for me! I always think that if the tunnel mouth were maybe just a bit more forward that odd (and illusion spoiling) sight might not be visible.
Yes, Alan, you make an excellent point. Regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie. Yet another informative video from you. Rather than watching the Hornby release video, I've watched a review of it on RUclips from Sam of Sam's Trains. The main point of interest was their new HM7000 system for controlling trains by Bluetooth, which is a great idea in principle, but after looking at the Hornby site, I can't immediately see that this new system can also control points, signals, etc., as you can with DCC.
I understand your point of view Gordon, however, I’m a bit dubious about its reliability. Regards, Charlie
Another interesting video Charlie. You asked what we thought of the new Hornby releases I was expecting a bit more than what they announced but with the supply issues I am not really surprised. For me the stand out announcement was the hm7000 which would appear to make dcc much simpler for digital neanderthals like me I personally think I will purchase a chip to try hopefully this will be a great way to get youngsters into the hobby due to lower prices. All the best mate looking forward to the next video.
I agree Gordon, that really was the only interesting piece of news from Hornby. Regards, Charlie
Thanks Charlie for introducing me to Wago connectors. I gain so much knowledge from your videos.
Thanks Archie, that's very kind of you to say so. Regards Charlie
Thanks Chas another classic episode
Thanks John, I’m so pleased that you found it useful mate. Regards, Charlie
Great work Charlie and another well put together video. Cheers, Alan
Thanks Alan, you’re too kind mate. Regards, Charlie
You always provide excellent tips and info Charlie, thank you.
From your earlier video’s I have used the Piko track screws on my layout and found them fantastic, especially when you find a mistake with the ability to realign to correct, cheers Paul.
Thanks Paul , I’m so pleased that you found my videos. Useful. Regards, Charlie
Wagon connectors need the cable to be stripped 11mm. There is a guide on the side of the Wago. I use them in my electronics development business for building test fixtures that I can reconfigure. Great bits of kit and a good alternative to connector blocks (cheaper too!). You can twist a number of cables together (upto 4mm squared) and feed into a single 'port'.
Thanks Simon, I’ll mention it next time.
Regards Charlie
Great video as always. I understand about the MOJO thing... I've only just started back on my layout after 13 months off... I go all in for short bursts.. and then I need to go and find something else to do until I find the urge again.. So right now I've got the drive and really enjoying making the progress on my layout.
I did my wiring the same for under the track. I always didn't understand why you would put it on the sides, when putting it in the centre underneath hides it and makes it look far more realistic..
Look forward to watching your next update. Craig.
That’s great news Craig, I’m so pleased that you found your Mojo. Regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie great info and tips as always, being DC I have still used a bus wiring arrangement (black to the back-thanks). Regarding Hornby's announcement I like some of your other subscribers think that items are getting too expensive and talking about Hornby did anyone else have issues with trying to watch series two on Yesterday last Monday at 8PM!!
Always look forward to watching your videos, take care regards Barry..
Yes, Barry, the expense is mind numbing. Regards, Charlie
Thanks Charlie great video just ordered some Wago blocks. I have been using telephone crimp jellys these will be better as if something needs to be change as it does there is no problem just lift the tab and start again. GREAT
Thanks Stephen, I’m so pleased that you find my videos useful. Regards, Charlie
WAGO Pronounced ‘vah-go’ are brilliant connectors that I have used a lot in industrial work. They do manufacture a long strip version in conventional terminal format, which directly replaces your prehistoric terminal strips. The downside is that they can only be purchased in large quantities, so in this case the prehistoric version wins. I have used the HobbyTrax alternatives for connecting section droppers to bus wires, and am very pleased with the compact and tidy appearance of the completed wiring. If I have one left when I’ve finished, I’ll send you one to review.
Thanks RL, that’s most kind.
Regards Charlie
The word that came to mind with the Hornby 2023 range was "regurgitation". Although I am an LMS modeller so I may be a touch biased.
I think that’s pretty accurate mate. Regards, Charlie
I've used the knock off wagos they work just fine I use a different style of terminal block there known here in the usa as European type terminal blocks there nylon with metal connector bars they work extremely well in a module type layout I'm actually starting a t trak ( n guage) layout and I'm going to start filming soon on the construction soon
These Wagos are certainly a great asset.
Good luck with your project.
Regards Charlie
Another enjoyable video and good to see progress and hear the tips. A comment on the Wago connectors. I learned about these about 5 years ago and used them for a big house wiring job and think they are the best things since sliced bread. They are generally used for solid core wiring although they can be used for stranded wire. The only thing is what you were experiencing and that is the stranded cores splaying out making it a bit more difficult to insert. To overcome this I put a ferrule crimp on the wire. This makes it like a solid wire and easy to insert. Only takes a few seconds and saves time later. You have to use a fairly small ferrule (approx 1mm) and make sure it can reach to the very back of the Wago hole.
An interesting comment, John, I shall try out my ferules accordingly. Regards, Charlie
HI Charlie
Just had to rejoin as a patreon
Credit card was comprised and cancelled.
Only missed one episode and got it anyway on
You tube.
As always enlightening and entertaining with humour.
Thanks.
Howard
Thanks Howard, and it’s great to have you back on board mate. Regards, Charlie
Thanks Charlie - another great watch. Your 'electronic' are beyond me at this time - I have just completed 70 years of modelling so not going down your route although if re-starting it clearly is the way to go. Reference Hornby - they have lost the plot by producing masses of A4s AGAIN following the 'gatherings' etc. How many A4s are people likely to 'collect' at these prices? Also how many of the new 'streamline' 4-6-0 locomotives are people going to buy - not only are they restricted in numbers (only 2) but they had a very limited area of use in real life so only a few modellers could use them.
Thanks for your comment, John. I believe that Hornby are trying to attract the cabinet collectors! Regards, Charlie
Well ten points to Charlie for the fish plate deployment method! Will have to try that next time I decide to torture myself with track laying!😂
Every day is a school day, Iron Horse. Regards, Charlie
Video: Great as always. Great to see your plan of action with a board per month and then filler videos on other topics. It works really well and I enjoy them. RE Hornby announcement; considering this is a catch up year, there is certainly a lot on offer, particularly towards limited edition runs. HM7000 is also, for me at least as a legacy DC owner, the biggest attraction here. I've not used DCC but loved the idea when I was younger and now wish to have something set up using it. One thing that appears to be missed/not mentioned is the control of solenoid-operated accessories. Their FAQ so far has nothing about it.
William
Yes Willian, the HM7000 has attracted my interest too. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie,
I must say it I agree that the cutting idea not only will benefit the track plan but will enhance the visual interest there. Maybe you could have an old stone footbridge over it which was provided when the line was built to protect access to an old farm track? You might even model a chap herding cows over it! 😄
Those Wago blocks look awesome. I actually quite like soldering, but for something like points where they are susceptible to faults and likely to need extraction for maintenance, they seem ideal! Likewise for semaphore signals! 😎
Cheers mate, have a great week 🍾🍀👍
Thanks Tim, I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting, and agree that the cutting is the best option. Regards, Charlie
Excellent video Charlie. I particularly like the Wago connectors. Very timely as I am currently working on droppers around my layout and get very frustrated with chock blocks, especially with my failing eyesight. I sincerely admire your patience and motivation to keep going and find your videos very inspiring. Thanks for sharing. Roy.
Thank you, Roy, for such a heartwarming comment. Regards, Charlie
Well done Charlie and some great tips and ideas. Susannah
Thank Susannah , hopefully we can meet up at Ali Pali. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, thanks for an interesting and slightly daunting video, your skill and experience is reassuring though. My layout is still in my head and I'll be visiting your earlier episodes for guidance regarding the wiring when I finally get under way. I think Hornby are all out on TT at the moment and I get that. Only thing that grabbed me was the Castle, but I suspect it's a re-release. Their prices seem too high and I'm glad other manufacturers are treating modellers better in these cash-strapped times. My last three purchases have all been Dapol locos which are easily as good, if not better than the Hornby products.
I think you’re pushing on an Open Door on this one David. Hornby could well be in trouble. Regards, Charlie
Great video again Charlie, look forward to watching you're videos and the progress you make 👍. In regards to the Hornby announcement, in my personal opinion, I think it's good that they're having a catch up year ,as it were, with COVID delays and all. Not saying they're normally great with timing but it certainly didn't help plus China are having more problems at the moment so be interesting to see what the can release. I also saw you at Warley challenging Simon regarding TT scale which was interesting to hear what he had to say. Again great video great tips great enthusiasm/humour keep it up 👍👍👍
I think we totally agree on Hornby’s position Chris. Regards, Charlie
Amazing video again mate! Progress wise it is going great and the layout would be ready soon 😊 See you in 2 weeks with another update.
Thanks AS, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards Charlie
Hello charlie , been watching your youtube video's for some time now and your my favourite got to channel and your expertise and knowledge is second to none iv learned so much watching you and been doing my own layout which is nearly ready to landscape after several changes over the last 2 years and finally getting to what i want it to be and some valid advice from you on your channels has helped me in a very big way. After seeing dcc pop up almost everywhere in direct complicity it was whilst watching one of your episodes on dcc that explained in great length in accurate detail whats involved and im glad to say i swiched over and not regretted once even though its getting very expensive hobby to be in it is a love affair after all . Thanks for all your video tutorials, Regards kev
What a heartwarming comment, Kev. You’re far too kind, and welcome to the challenging world of DCC operations. Take care mate, regards, Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway Will do charlie and you as'well
Tip when stip wires. Dont strip the tube off compleatly, just make sure the tube is separated and then grab the tube with your fingers, twist and pull off. No more punktured thunbs or pointingfingers from the wires inside the tubing.
Thans for yet another great video Charley.
Thanks LY, if only I could remember.
Regards Charlie
Great video Charlie, and with some really useful tips. Those little Wago (spelling) connectors look very useful.
Good to see you are able and willing to revise your plans and am pleased the short tunnel has become a cutting. The washplant is an important addition too.
Hornby 2023. Well what can I say.
Positives are the Salmon wagon, hopefully of a different design to the existing Flangeway product and the Bogie Bolster C albeit it lettered as Macaw B and a Bogie Bolster C. The TTAs are also a great addition to replace the rather "basic" existing product.
Simon Kohler is quite clearly exhibiting his fetish for Hornby Dublo and seems to think the Hornby target customers have an unending supply of the folding stuff and dhare his obsession with all things Gresley and Thompson. Is there really a need or a desire to have six different "Flying Scotsmans" and gawd knows how many A4s ? Surely a planned release of one a year would enable to customers to buy them all, and would guarantee the sales to Hornby, but only the well heeled could afford to order and purchase all six in one go. Similarly with the B17/5 - maybe the LNER apple green one this year and the BR one next year.
The Deltic DP1 is pure indulgence in my opinion. I certainly wont be buying one because I don't want one, and even if I did, my choice would be the Barwell version anyway. I do though hope the Hornby Dublo branding sees it become a success. There are hundreds of "virgin" locomotives for Hornby to pick at without duplicating existing products - unless of course they warrant updating. In Hornby's case most of the BR diesel locos with the exception of 31 50 56 and 60 really need rebreathing - mostly the ex Lima products like the 20 37 and their own 25 and 47.
I couldn’t agree more Phil. The only thing that raised my eyebrow, was the indulgence in the Bluetooth DCC application. Stay safe mate, regards, Charlie
Hi Charlie. Great tip re the Wago's so thank you. I'm about to build a large layout, 28' x 15' ovals, so I think I'll be ordering some to make life easier.
With refernce to Hornby. It's all well & good bringing out new models, but I'd rather they hurried up with the Black 5 & Scotsman loco's with steam that I've had on order from the initial announcement. Apparently, the Black 5 will now be available at the end of next year. Unbelievable.
Keep up the good work. Cheers. Les XRN.
Thanks Les, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. Hornby I believe, are in a real mess. Regards, Charlie
Another great video Charlie and some very useful tips. Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it Jonn. Regards Charlie
Lots of useful knowledge in this video, thanks Charlie. It always good to have a plan and a target date. I’ve used the Wagos and they are pretty good, much better than the ‘chocolate block’ terminal blocks. Thanks again.
I’m now a convert too Chas.
Regards Charlie
Another great video, Charlie. I'm currently designing my new layout in AnyRail and am paying attention to your fantastic advice on how to avoid S-curves! I have very mixed feelings about the Hornby announcement. On the one hand, I don't have a Class 43 train and I want one circa 1980 (+/-), so I was interested in seeing that. Like other commentators, I find their pricing (and Bachmann's as well) very steep when you consider what Accurascale are offering in terms of both quality and price. Their new decoders look interesting - certainly a lot cheaper than Zimo - and I see where Simon was coming from about making it easier to 'play' trains. But I can't yet see quite how Bluetooth operation would fit into a set-up that uses block detection and computer control. We will have to watch with interest; either their whizzy idea is ground breaking or it is limited to play sets rather than more complex layouts.
Thanks for the excellent comment Ed. I to have my reservations regarding the Hornby Bluetooth application. Regards, Charlie
Thank you Charlie for another informative and inspirational video. I'm very impressed with the Wago connectors and they are readily available here in Sweden.
That’s great news, Anders, they really are so useful. Regards