I have used Atlas O track for many years and I love it. The track does require preparation, however, especially if you use the switches, too. Though the switches have been improved, they do not all pass electricity through as you would hope.
1) I NEVER trust the rail joiners. If the joiner slips on easily it is a problem. Even if the joiner "clicks," it may still be a problem. I put electrically conductive grease in each joiner. I test every section of track as it it placed down.
2) Every leg of every switch gets a jumper. I trust no switches.
3) Power drops and jumpers are all soldered to the track after drilling a small hole. Once drilled and soldered, drops and jumpers are 100%. I always use 14 awg copper wire with a high number of strands. I buy it from Monoprice. It is speaker wire and though it is 14 awg, it is very flexible and easy to use.
4) Clean off the blackened substance on the center rail and clean all rails scrupulously with abrasive. Dirty track is a problem waiting to happen. GET A GOOD track cleaning car and use it.
Scrappy
