Connections between train cars

I'm working on a customized version of the Holiday Train set and want to add some lights.  Is there a good approach for connecting lights in serial down the length of the train? I'd like it to be easy to separate.

The only lighting I've done so far has been pretty simple on this micro house model, so this feels like a big step up in complexity, so I want to get the planning right. 

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  • Hi, and thank you for the question.  Your micro house looks amazing, by the way!  Thank you so much for mentioning us on the Rebrickable page.  Would you be willing to make a write-up on this Forum as well, showing others how you lit it up (inside details, etc)?  I know others would be interested to see how you did it.  We often get questions about how to light smaller models, so this would be perfect and very helpful.

    OK, now for your train question. :-)  If you are able to use the old-style LEGO couplers (from the 9V era), we are working on some power-conducting couplers that are magnetic and that also make a power connection when snapped together.  Here are some photos:

     

     

     

    What do you think?  Would this work for your train?  If so, we plan on having the magnetic couplers for sale in our store next month.

    Let us know what you think!

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    • seejay
    • seejay
    • 4 yrs ago
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    Wow!  What a fantastic idea!  My train uses the older couplers (I got a few in a bulk purchase of used bricks), so I imagine this would work fine for me.  I imagine most customers would be a little worried about how good the electrical and magnetic connections are, so I'd recommend a video of a train rigged with these connections in operation.  

    As for a write up, I'd be happy to do that. I've done another micro house of some friends' house recently as a gift and figured out a couple of useful tricks that might be useful. I'll DM you.

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  • seejay Great, I'm glad you're willing to do a write-up!  RE: the couplers, we've tested them with various LEGO train clubs around the U.S., and we test each one to make sure the electrical connection is strong.  Posting a video is a good idea.  Look for that soon.

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