Has anybody on here, even though you're 3-rail guys, ever hand laid your track? I have found that all modern pieces (except for the 1989 Lionel semi-scale B6 switcher re-issue) and all postwar O gauge equipment will operate very comfortably on code 148 rails. Postwr Lionel wheels go through a scale turnout frog with little to no modification whereas your angled wheel modern rolling stock need a bit more modification since the flange sits back further from the outside face of the wheel. I have used bass wood for my cross ties and I spike down my rails. For track which is closest to the viewer, I use tie plates made of either plastic or pressed cardboard. It's a lot of work but when your 18+ pound Allegheny rumbles by on your rails, your layout takes on a different characteristic, it's even more of a part of you. I love building my turnouts and creating easements into my curves. For that annoying third rail, I use code 100 rails which counter sinks below the top of the larger code 148 which is great when taking realistic type photographs. I remember an article in OGR back when it was O scale 2 rail and 3 rail journal from around 1990 or 91. The truer 1/4" scale rails make your realistic/scale locomotives look even more realistic. It is true I cannot run anything prewar on it unless they are the 700E and scale freight cars or the scale B6 switcher.
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