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Originally Posted by Mathom:

The 1 thing that keeps me from jumping into O-scale with both feet is the cost of a single turnout.  

Yes, I could probably try and build my own but I love running outdoors (had G-scale for years) I need UV resistant ties...Atlas & Peco are the 2 that I know of.  ME said they are not.

 

-Mark

I thought the cost of Atlas 2 rail switches was very affordable and less then 3 rail switches of the sasame size and #??

Or even better use a combination of flex and hand laid track.
 
 
Originally Posted by mwb:
Originally Posted by CWEX:
Originally Posted by Bad Order Hal:

 

 

I can see no reason why O-Scale 2-Rail modelers would ever consider anything BUT Flex Track!

 

That's why one hand lays...you're not limited to anything!  Just lay what you want where you want when you want.

Exactly so!  Even more so, when you can't get flex track,

 

"Just lay what you want where you want when you want"......to go where you want your track and switches to go, not where some manufacturer makes you go..

 

Atlas O sectional track is outstanding stuff, and I wouldn't hesitate to use it (and I have used it extensively), especially on a turnaround curve where the look of the track isn't as important. As far as transition curves are concerned, mixing different radius curve sections will do a serviceable job. In particular, using a 40.5 radius curve on either end of an otherwise 36" radius turnback curve will allow any Atlas 6 axle diesel to run reliably on 36" curves, even when two engines are coupled back to back.

 

Jeff C

I too have used Atlas O sectional 45" R track with great results. ncng
 
Originally Posted by leikec:

Atlas O sectional track is outstanding stuff, and I wouldn't hesitate to use it (and I have used it extensively), especially on a turnaround curve where the look of the track isn't as important. As far as transition curves are concerned, mixing different radius curve sections will do a serviceable job. In particular, using a 40.5 radius curve on either end of an otherwise 36" radius turnback curve will allow any Atlas 6 axle diesel to run reliably on 36" curves, even when two engines are coupled back to back.

 

Jeff C

 

 

HEY JEFF,

 

I know you know this, but please allow my retort:

 

With Flex Track, you can start with a fixed radius and go through an infinite change of radii until you merge into a Tangent track, with no intermediate steps!

 

You can advance from a "serviceable job" to a really smooth transition!  Even where it isn't noticeable, why not do a perfect job while you're at it?

 

This is how track is laid in real railroads, using specialized plane geometry which includes Versed Sines and CoSecants.

 

BAD ORDER

 

 

 

Last edited by Former Member

 

 

HEY ALAN,

 

Thanks for the compliment, but here's a better specimen in our front yard...I has been estimated to be about 500 years old. 

 

Joshua Trees are protected by Law in the High Desert, and if one had to be transplanted, it must be set in the same orientation as from its original growth history.

 

BAD ORDER

 

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Last edited by Former Member
Originally Posted by Bad Order Hal:

 

HEY JEFF,

 

I know you know this, but please allow my retort:

 

With Flex Track, you can start with a fixed radius and go through an infinite change of radii until you emerge into a Tangent track, with no intermediate steps!

 

You can advance from a "serviceable job" to a really smooth transition!  Even where it isn't noticeable, why not do a perfect while you're at it?

 

This is how track is laid in real railroads, using specialized plane geometry which includes Versed Sines and Secants.

 

BAD ORDER

 

 

 

No problem, Hal. I like flex track. I am, however, a complete lazybones, and I've had a few health problems in the last few years that conspire to make things like track laying difficult. Because of those factors, sectional track is perfect for me, and it can use my limited stamina and patience for other projects, such as building turnouts, or attempting to scratch build trolley equipment.

My On30 is Kato unitrack, and it works ok, although voltage drop can be a problem (something that doesn't seem to be the problem with Atlas O sectional track).

 

Jeff C

 

Originally Posted by Marc C:

I'd really like to learn more about laying my own track and building my own turnouts. Are there templates for turnouts? Any good threads on this topic? Where and what to buy etc. Any help or a point in the right direction is greatly appreciated.

 

Marc


I would suggest you begin with the Detailing Track book by Mike Cougill.  It is a very well written and informative look at the process of handlaying track and a switch, plus incorporating so many of the details that really make our trackwork pop if you decide to use them.  Now Mike is a P48 guy but that doesn't change anything about the process or steps if you will.  Also you can go to the Fasttracks website as they have downloadable and printable templates, they are pretty good and free.  Also Fasttracks has jigs that you can order, they are usually made to order I believe (someone correct me if I'm wrong) but they are pricey.  And they have a ton of other things for hand laying. 

      You can make your own ties or order them from Kappler.  I have hand layed 90% of the track on my layout and over 20 switches ranging from #5 to #10's.  I have purchased all of my rail, tie plates, joint bars, frogs, points, spikes, throw bars and guard rails from Lou Cross at Right O' Way.  Lou does not have a website, he deals over the phone and is a stand up guy...one of the best folks to talk with and his products are top shelf in my book.  This by no means is everything out there but hopefully it will answer some of your questions and get you started.   You could watch my videos that I have done on handlaying if you like, that may help as well.

Last edited by N&W Class J

Contacted GarGraves...

 

Q- Just getting into the hobby.  I was pointed in your direction regarding running O-scale outdoors.  Are the  GarGraves O-scale 2 rail track (ties & turnouts) UV resistant?

 

A- We only make 2-Rail O Gauge in 37" flex track with wood ties and would not recommend it for outdoor use.  I would suggest Atlas O 2 Rail track.

 

-Mark

The A&H Models site says that the Lenz track is usable outdoors.  Maybe get a test piece to see firsthand, or discuss with them.  And you're absolutely right - Peco is usable outdoors.
 
 
Originally Posted by Mathom:

Contacted GarGraves...

 

Q- Just getting into the hobby.  I was pointed in your direction regarding running O-scale outdoors.  Are the  GarGraves O-scale 2 rail track (ties & turnouts) UV resistant?

 

A- We only make 2-Rail O Gauge in 37" flex track with wood ties and would not recommend it for outdoor use.  I would suggest Atlas O 2 Rail track.

 

-Mark

 

Originally Posted by Mathom:

Contacted GarGraves...

 

Q- Just getting into the hobby.  I was pointed in your direction regarding running O-scale outdoors.  Are the  GarGraves O-scale 2 rail track (ties & turnouts) UV resistant?

 

A- We only make 2-Rail O Gauge in 37" flex track with wood ties and would not recommend it for outdoor use.  I would suggest Atlas O 2 Rail track.

 

-Mark

Ummm, well I thought their Stainless track would hold up, ties and all...

 

Originally Posted by rdunniii:

Beware of "Detailing Track".  It will give you an entirely different way of thinking about "track as a model" and make it something you care about ......

I've heard this a few times now and it sticks in my mind. I'm looking at the latest OST with some pictures of L&N consists. The track adds to the realism of the shots, taking it to the next level. I hope I can capture that in my next layout.

Post

OGR Publishing, Inc., 1310 Eastside Centre Ct, Suite 6, Mountain Home, AR 72653
800-980-OGRR (6477)
www.ogaugerr.com

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