@AmFlyer posted:One of the nice features of FasTrack is Lionel makes so many custom length pieces it is possible to build most track plans without cutting track. The exception would most likely be to get other than full and half length curve segments. Also since S FasTrack uses solid .138 rail it is as close to a scale rail as is possible and still run high rail equipment. With the solid rail it is quiet, unlike its O gauge relative which by all reports is not quiet.
After simulating via SCARM multiple track configurations using both American Models track and FasTrack, I fully concur with your statement regarding how the large number of lengths the latter product offers facilitates track building with minimal, if any, track cutting.
In an earlier post I speculated about the possible incompatibility of FasTrack remote control turnouts and uncoupling sections incorporated in a DCC-type layout. Lionel tech support informed me that this would not be a problem. I suppose, though, that it would behoove me to buy one of each item to verify this claim before purchasing all FasTrack sections needed for my planned permanent layout.
You also eliminated my final FasTrack concern- -its potential noisiness. Mounting all track on at least a one-inch-thick layer of extruded-foam insulation board [resting on an open-grid benchwork] would certainly help damp out any residual noise.
