Has anyone noticed any significant difference between the different brands of track in regard to the traction they get with their engines? Given that the rail tops have different profiles and that the metal that is used is different between brands it strikes me that there could be a difference.
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You are on the right track with your question (pun intended). You are likely inquiring about O scale but I will contribute what I see with S. For several years I had two layouts operating, one with original Gilbert AF track and one with SHS ( now MTH) track. The Gilbert track had a small but noticable traction advantage. Original Gilbert track is a T section and is not plated. SHS is NS and a smaller T section. I think the small difference was related to the metal alloy used rather than the size of the rail cross section but cannot say for sure. Original Gilbert track also offered better traction than the Gargraves flex track, again it was small but measurable by the number of cars that could be pulled. If one compares Gargraves and Gilbert rail the Gilbert has a flatter top and appears to be a different alloy.
I have not built a layout with American Models track so I cannot offer any feedback.
All the above is with engines without traction tires. With the new Lionel Flyer engines I could not detect any difference.
Don't use Atlas-O or I think MTH Scaletrax with nickel silver rail with magnetraction, and probably Gargraves stainless steel also.
Don't use Atlas-O or I think MTH Scaletrax with nickel silver rail with magnetraction, and probably Gargraves stainless steel also.
Magnetraction works on GarGraves SS, just not as strong as on the plated steel.
NEVER NOTICED A DIFFERENCE FROM THE TYPE OF TRACK. TO ME THE TWO MOST IMPORTANT FACTORS IN TRACTION ARE:
1. CLEAN TRACK - IT AMAZING HOW THE DIRT BUILDS UP SO CLEAN REGULARLY
2. MAKE SURE YOUR TRACTION TIRES ARE GOOD - LOOK FOR WEAR OR LOOSE FIT AND REPLACE WHEN NECESSARY.
Don't use Atlas-O or I think MTH Scaletrax with nickel silver rail with magnetraction, and probably Gargraves stainless steel also.
Magnetraction works on GarGraves SS, just not as strong as on the plated steel.
Must be made of same SS as my refrigerator. The SS piping I worked with in my working life was non-magnetic. Why I said probably, never used Gargraves track. Thanks for the info though, it's good to know. Now if I can just remember it!
Gargraves stainless steel track is better for use with high humidity problems. One thing that I have seen with Gargraves O gauge track is that it will flatten or dent quicker, if an engine derails, then Lionel or MTH tubular(post war style of track) track will.
Lee Fritz
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