How to Wire a Toy Train

Unplug the transformer before wiring your train to prevent electrocution and short circuit.

Use the train's terminal connectors and the screwdriver to attach the ground wire (from the terminal wire). The terminal connectors function with friction connections that slide in and out between the track beams or with a simpler slide connection piece that attaches two track pieces when it is inserted into the connectors. No matter the method of connection, the ground wire must be connected to both of the outside track rails. Depending on the terminal connections, you will have either a "Y" adapter with a split-ended connection or two ground wires with an individual connection to each outside rail. Either will work just fine.

Secure the unused terminal wire to the middle rail of the train. This wire will serve as the power wire.

Locate the appropriate slot on the transformer for the terminal ground wire. This will most likely be the slot marked in black. Unscrew the slot, insert the end of the terminal ground wire, and then tighten the slot again using the screwdriver.

Locate the appropriate slot on the transformer for the terminal power wire. This will most likely be the slot marked in red. Unscrew the slot, insert the end of the terminal power wire, and then tighten the slot again using the screwdriver.