NSPhil posted:Morning Everyone!
I've just decided to go with Atlas O track, but want to get some feedback on a few items:
1) Roadbed: What type/brand offers the most flexibility? I was considering Cork, Woodland Scenics Track-Bed, or Hobby Innovations Flex Bed. If you would recommend an entirely different product, please let me know. Which is the most flexible? Which has the best sound-deadening properties? What provides the most prototypical appearance once ballasted?
2) Track Screws/Nails: What are your experiences with Atlas O's track screws? Are they long enough to extend through the track, roadbed material, and provide a secure bond to plywood at the same time? If you would recommend another product, what is it?
3) Power: What type of power connection is best for use with DCS? (ex: rail joiner clips, saudering, or the 10" terminal track section?) I was personally leaning towards the clips at this point. It is a small DCS-only layout, powered by a Z-1000, sometimes using the wi-fi module.
I'm quite excited to make this switch as I'm coming from RealTrax but Run Premier line Locomotives and full-scale rolling stock. I love MTH, but I've been using Realtrax for 20 years and I'm ready for a change!
Thanks so much to everyone in advance! I really want to ensure I'm using the best products and techniques. I am completely open to hearing the good, the bad, and the ugly! (but based on the reputation & quality of Atlas O, I doubt there's very much "ugly" HaHa!
1. I use Atlas track with cork roadbed. I have tried the others and they were more difficult to work with.
2. The Atlas screws work just fine.
3. For a small layout, the Atlas pre-wired rail joints work just fine. The only drawback is that it is expensive. For a larger layout, soldering is less expensive and works well. I use both on my layout. I have a 8 X 20 foot layout, I run both MTH DCS and Lionel TMCC control systems.
NH Joe
