I posted this on the Atlas Forum, thought I'd share it here as well
I've decided to share my learning experience regarding the headache that is called "soldering". This is, or shall I say WAS my weakest point. I think I've got down a little technique that works pretty well...
Note: Photos shown are of Code 55 Atlas flex track, but this works just as well with Code 80. Just remove enough ties so you can solder the "feet" of the feeders without the surrounding ties interfering.
1. I made a jig for holding the flex track in place
2. I cut the ties at 8 ties, then 6 ties
3. I pull off the 8 ties, and slide down the 6 ties
4. I position the track onto the jig - snug fit
5. Apply a decent amount of soldering flux to the rails
6. And to the ends of the feeder wires
7. Tin both the wire tip and the rails
8. Hold the wire to the rail and apply heat
9. As you can see, you get a clean, invisible joint!
-Alex