My smoke alarm batteries need changing, But I hate to throw / recycle the old ones.  I checked them with a volt meter and found 8.9 and 9 volts. New ones register 9.2 volts.  I am looking for ideas for uses for the old ones. I do have one powering lights in a model structure. Ever see a flashlight that uses these batteries?

I have seen a couple of materials mentioned for gluing down cork roadbed, as well as gluing down track.  I have seen latex caulk mentioned, as well as Liquid Nails and Elmer's Glue.

Which works best for gluing down cork roadbed?  Which works well for gluing down track? 

Do you use something else?

What has been your experience?

By the way, I am working in N-scale (if that makes any difference).

As I get closer to finishing the benchwork for my n-scale layout, I am gathering materials for laying the track.

One question that has always bothered me, is that of what is the correct wire gauge for track wiring.  I am going to create a wiring buss along the route of my track, with connectors to the track every 3-4 feet.  What gauge wire is best for the buss?  What gauge is best for the connectors to the track?

And, while I'm thinking about it, what is the best gauge for wiring turnout motors?

I am getting close to installing the shelfing for my staging tracks,....3 separate areas. In general these staging shelves will be made from ¾ plywood, cantilevered out from the walls, and approx 14 inches in width. They will be located 8” under the main deck level above them (that's 8” top of deck to top of deck).