That teeny tiny decoder wire

WM183 Feb 12, 2019

  1. WM183

    WM183 TrainBoard Member

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    Hi folks.

    I am doing a number of brass upgrades, and need to find some of that very fine wire like that which is used to connect the engine and tender on many DCC steam engines; 32 gauge I believe, and very flexible. I bought some from China, but it has a much thicker and tougher insulation which makes it rather too stiff. Does anyone know where I can get some of that? I hate to keep buying blindly.

    Thanks!

    Amanda
     
  2. gatrhumpy

    gatrhumpy TrainBoard Member

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    Amanda, what about piano wire from a switch machine coil?
     
  3. Mike Kmetz

    Mike Kmetz TrainBoard Member

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    [Edit: link to non-Trainboard advertiser removed]
    [mod comment]Please review Trainboard's retailer policy prior to posting links to those who do not advertise here. There are many on-line retailers who supply this type of wire. See below for mention of one TB advertiser.
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Feb 12, 2019
  4. Pieter

    Pieter TrainBoard Member

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    ESU is also selling their decoder wire, 10 m at a time and 10 colors. See their site for the specs. Other wise you could also try lose decoder cable harnesses.
     
  5. RBrodzinsky

    RBrodzinsky November 18, 2022 Staff Member TrainBoard Supporter In Memoriam

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    Trainboard advertiser Streamlined Backshop (SBS4DCC) sells the ESU, SoundTraxx, TCS, and Zimo branded wires of 30awg and thinner
     
  6. J Starbuck

    J Starbuck TrainBoard Member

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    I have used the ESU and also TCS. Both are excellent but the ESU is slightly thinner and more flexible.
    The retailer listed above is my go-to source.
     
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  7. WM183

    WM183 TrainBoard Member

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    Thanks folks! It never occurred to me that ESU might make it. Being a European firm, they may be my best bet.
     
  8. fordy744

    fordy744 TrainBoard Member

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    most, if not all of the decoder manufacturers offer the wire separately.

    So contact your preferred supplier would be the safest advice...
     
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  9. Onizukachan

    Onizukachan TrainBoard Supporter

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    It you are not looking for large quantities, be aware you can buy stranded wire with a silicone jacket in 30 and below as well from us based ebay China suppliers, 1-2 meters at a time.
    It is limper than anything I’ve ever used and super easy to strip.
    Since I need to finish an order at SBS, I’ll give his a try.
     
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