I purchased 042 curves two years ago the first part of Dec. ( Dec 2016) and found the pins loose in the majority of the pieces. The track twisted very easily (track was not attached to the ties as well as it could have been) and I added insulation between the rail and ties on a couple of pieces. Just over a year ago (Dec. 2017) I added some track and needed several more curved sections. I thought I might be able to find enough if I "picked over" the stock at the store. Very pleasant surprise, every piece I tried the pins fit very nicely as they should and the twisting no longer evident. I left the store, went home, and ordered a case of 042. ( could purchase a case for very little more than the pieces I needed) I have no direct experience with straights on the layout but the pieces I tried in the store were good. I am satisfied with the track having experienced no problem with it for the past year.
I would use it again if I needed track.
Hope this helps a bit. Ron
