What, where and how does it perform?

Hi all

I often hear references to piano wire for operating signals, points etc, but I know nothing about it, where to obtain it and how much it costs. I was wondering if any members have used it and what their experiences might be? Is there one grade/size of wire, or does it vary? Does it bend easily and can it be shaped? I would welcome any comments, in particular examples of it being used.

Thanks

Bob

Bob, piano wire is a generic term used for high or medium tensile single strand steel wire.  The really thin versions are used for the B and E strings on a guitar, but it is also available in 1/16" which is the usual size found in model shops.  The lower notes have a bronze wire wound around them to increase their mass and so give a lower note.

Hi Bob,

Have a look here on Page 344 of the Squires catalogue. http://www.squirestools.com/12-19a.pdf

They have a pretty comprehensive selection at reasonable prices.

PIANO WIRE

PIANO WIRE

hard piano wire in 36" lengths and various sizes.

CODE TYPE PRICE

I got some 0.010" guitar string (for loco springing when I get roun' toit) from my local music store.  The man behind the counter seemed bemused when I told him what it was for.  Pricewise it was CDN$1 - about 60 p.

John

 

I use it to replace the weaker wire supplied with Tortoise Point motors.........this is widely recommended to improve performance

You mean 0.032" steel wire John, I assume.  Yes, the 0.020" wire supplied is too wimbly.  Cobalts come with pre shaped 0.032" wire.

The other John

Thanks John…………as you guessed I couldnt remenber the dimension!

I know cobalts come with a number of enhancements but I have heard a number of adverse reports…….I am a committed Tortoise Fan……and the price seems to have dropped $13.65 US for a single!

Sorry Bob…..I digress:oops:

Yes John, Cobalts do have some refinements and are more expensive than Tortoise.  I particularly like the Cobalt feature that lets you clip in the wiring (like Hi Fi speakers) - no soldering.  I had problems with the Tortoise soldered wires moving around and causing shorts on my last layout (10 minutes before show opening!).  There is a separate connector which still requires that the wires are soldered but at least it's easy to unplug. 

John

I've replaced my Tortoise motor wires as well, John.  Especially important when they're mounted on their sides.

Thanks all for the rapid responses, especially for the links. I will get some when I am next home and have a play around.

Bob