Guest
Guest
Apr 22, 2022
3:07 AM
|
So you have an interest in starting a new HO scale model train layout. One of the first questions you need to ask yourself is what kind of HO train track you are going to be using. This is an important question because once you start with the layout, there really is no going back without starting completely over.
As an owner of a model train shop, probably the most asked question that I get from beginners is 'What is the difference in all the kinds of HO train track?' When I start explaining the difference, I will usually start by explaining the difference in 'codes'.
In HO scale there are 2 common codes of track (although there are more than 2). That being code 100 and code 83. What the code actually represents is the height of the track rail. So code 100 is 100 thousandths high and code 83 is 83 thousandths high. Of the 2, code 100 is a little easier to use because the rail is slightly higher. This means your cars and engines tend to have fewer derailments. You will also find that code 100 track is a little cheaper. So if code 100 is easier to run on and less expensive, why would you use code 83? Well, code 83 is actually closer to actual scale so it looks more realistic than code 100. Another difference with Atlas track anyways is that code 100 has black ties and code 83 has brown ties. One other major consideration when selecting your code is that for some reason, there are more 'options' with code 83 track. What I mean by this is that you will find more turn-out configurations which will be explained below.
Once you have decided what code track you want to use, the next question involves the roadbed. There are a few manufacturers that offer HO train track with roadbed built right on the track. Although this may seem more convenient, it greatly limits your track options. Track with roadbed attached to it only comes in predefined radius sections, small straights, and very limited turn-out options. Personally, I think the only reason to use this type of track is if you are planning on building a layout that can be taken apart and your space if very limited. If you are planning a permanent layout, you should probably avoid track with roadbed attached to it.
Flex track or fixed track? As the name implies, flex track is just that. It normally comes in 3' sections and is flexible so you can bend your own curves. Fixed track on the other hand, is rigid pieces of track with pre-defined radius such as 18", 22", or 24". Both types have certain advantages over the other. As you design your layout, you will probably find that you will want to use both types of track. The nice thing about fixed track is that when you buy it, it already has the joiners attached to the ends so you just connect the track. With flex track, after bending your curve, you will have to nip the extended piece of rail, file it smooth, attach a joiner, and normally solder the sections together. Soldering fixed track is probably also a good idea. The advantage of flex track is that you can have a longer continuous curve with means less joints. Also, you are running 3' of continuous track verses several pieces of fixed track. Like I said, both have advantages and it really is something you will have to experiment with.
|
