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A search of this forum will show numerous complaints from O gauge operators about the high noise level of running trains on O gauge Fastrack and various suggestions of ways to minimize it.

My question is for those of you who run S gauge trains on S Fastrack, do you find the noise level of S Fastrack annoying,  intolerable, and objectionable compared to running on other types of S gauge track? 

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I have some 27 inch curves and 5 inch straights.  The 27 inch curves are very noisy.  I saw a post (I thought it was in this forum but I just searched and couldn't find it) that Lionel has admitted a problem with this specific item.  The rails don't seem to be bound firmly so that when a train goes by the rails vibrate and create a lot of noise.  If you have the track on top of some type of sound absorbent material it would help but none of the S-Trax track that I have make anywhere near as much noise.  I no longer use the FasTrack in my layout.

FWIW, I have only heard O gauge Fastrack, no S gauge. I would imagine it is all about the same for noise as it's all hollow, hard plastic road bed. The extra 3rd rail may add to the noise level? Some think it is very noisy and some do not notice the noise at all and say it's quiet. Depends on your hearing and we all hear things differently. 

 

If you don't mind more of a 'toy train' look, many have reported using carpet on their layout quiets it down considerably. I really like the O gauge Fastrack. However, due to the noise I went with Atlas which I now like even better than Fastrack and it is very quiet, even on bare plywood. I know you can't get that for S gauge, but if there is a solid rail track available for S gauge I imagine it would be much quieter without having extra sound deadening under it.

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

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