I just learned something new, well at least a new term to me.
I've been using Scotchlok connectors for years for everything, cars,
trains, general wiring, and never heard them called suitcase connectors
before. Must be a MRR thing.
They are great, do not require special tools to use and generally very
good and convenient. However they do require care in use because they
are a little fussy.
First issue is making sure they line up properly on the wire. Easy to
cut the wire in half if not careful.
Second real problem is trying to use with wires of different sizes. Red
is for wire sizes 22-18AWG. Blue for 18-14AWG, and Yellow is for
12-10AWG. So a lot of standard accessories will use 18-22AWG and
connecting with a Blue requires very careful work to make the connection
good.
Interesting that Micro-Mark calls them suitcase connectors for model
railroaders and sells a Scotchlok crimping tool to close them that looks
a lot like a set of channel locks.
They also make UDC connectors which are gel filled to protect against
water in outdoor applications.
Carey
Carey Probst
Member, M.I.T. Educational Council
S Scale, Sn3 and S High Rail/AF
A well regulated militia being necessary to the security of a free State,
the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed.
On 1/25/2011 12:53 PM, Jim and Cheryl Martin wrote:
>
> I hear ya Bob. In the end it's always an amalgam of preference and
> experience.
> On some of my sections, I have used insulated bus wires because there
> were not
> all that many power drops to contend with. After hearing bad things
> initially
> about suitcase connectors, most of what I hear these days is positive.
> Probably
> having the proper crimping tool helps. But I still think they are an
> expensive
> way to make a connection...especially if one is retired and has the
> time to wait
> for the soldering iron to heat up. I hope your Karma runs over the Dogma.
>
> Jim
>
>
>
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