Like any other section of track, espescially a grade, wiring a helix for good power flow will provided better operations. Depending on the size of your helix, you may need to add a power bus and feeders. Soldering rail joints within the helix can greatly reduce the need. Testing the voltage drop on a nine turn, 96 inch diameter helix with soldered joints, I found less than 1/10 of 1 volt drop.

Despite the good conductivity, feeders were added every 180 degrees through the entire helix.

It is easier to take the extra time to run wires during construction to help prevent maintenance troubles years later. Also, depending on the length of the helix, you may want to install multiple blocks to help control trains or signals.

Tricks for the Turns

Fastening feeder wires on the underside of a helix turn can be a challenge given the tight clearances involved. By using cork or another roadbed product, the feeders can be run beneath the track, but above the plywood. Run feeders from the rails to the inside of the helix. Alternate the inner and outer rail feeders every 90 degrees.

Bus wires can be run vertically on the inside of the helix, with feeders tied in at every turn. If you have only one or two wire buses, fastening a thin strip of wood on the inside of the helix will help keep the wire secure. This brace can also help align the turns. If your helix has more tracks and busses, short segments of PVC piping keep everything neatly bundled.