What is the best way to power feeders?

[franbog]

Running N Scale, but I think I need additional power.  Do I splice into the Bachmann red power line and run to my feeder(s)?  Is there a better way to do it?  thanks

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On temporary layouts (and some permanent ones), I purchase one or two of the Bachmann terminal 10" straight tracks with the plug-in feeders on them. Since they have terminals on both sides, you can "daisy-chain them". Because of the way Bachmann turnout controllers work, I usually have extra coiled up red wire feeders. I just cut two apart and splice them together so I have a female-female extension. I then use that to connect one terminal track section to another. The first goes from the unused side of the main power connection to the first expansion section, and so on and so on. Position the terminal sections strategically around the layouts. You have to make sure you have the polarity right. I used to use my multi-meter to check it, but it's easier to momentarily touch the connector to the track section connector. If nothing happens, you're all set; just finish pushing it on. If the power shorts, just flip the connector over. You can splice and connect the red power wires, but my method is a little easier and less permanent. I would stay away from the Bachmann feeder section with the wires coming out the bottom. They require another spliced connection that reduces flexibility.

For more permanent layouts, I use rail joiners with attached leads. Replace the existing joiners with ones with the leads attached, and connect the wires.