Fast Tracks

I need to know what thickness of material is best recommended to make the tabs that attach the points to the throwbars. I have some small electrical solder tabs that can be easily modified for this, they are .015" thick tin plated brass. Is this too much? If this is too much, I can make them from brass shim stock. I have several thicknesses from .002" thru .012".

Also, where is a good, cheap, source for the small screws (in bulk quantities - not the 10 for $3 range) to attach the tabs with? What size should be used? I am thinking about the hex head 00-90 or 0-80 sizes and threading the PCB throwbar for this. Wrong thinking?

I have thought about the method of soldering a spike to the point and drilling a hole in the throwbar. I am concerned that the very small area of solder holding the spike to the point would not be strong enough. Anyone used this method? If so, how long have they worked successfully?

Thanks

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-ed mccamey-
COSLAR RR - http://www.coslar.us/
NMRA Standards and Conformance Department
PROTO & FINE Scale Coordinator
I estimate I have about 5 pounds of coupler springs somewhere in the vicinity of my workbench.