Just curious about the different kinds of 027 track out there. I've seen marx with black ties, lionel with black ties, lionel with gray ties, lionel with brown ties. Why are the colors different and which are most and least desirable?
lionel2986.
There is also Marx 027 that has black ties and black rails. It was explained to me once, but all I recall is it had something to do with the war years. I have quite a bit of this type of tubular track.
Rod L.
Marx track does have the black ties. As to black rails, that is the way Marx track naturally oxidizes. They apparently used a different tinning process than Lionel. Gives it a nice, weathered look. Jerry's explanation certainly also makes sense.
Lionel and K-Line O-27 both have brown ties.
Lionel O gauge (the taller, heavier tubular track) has black ties. I am not familiar with any O-27 track with gray ties. Perhaps some early track from Lionel?
As to desireability, it depends on your needs and preferences. Marx offers O-34 curves and longer (11 inch) straight sections. Lionel and K-Line O-27 is cheap and plentiful. K-Line offered wider radius curves in O-27 profile which are pretty easy to find. Lionel O gauge was offered in the premium sets for years and is somewhat sturdier. The standard curve was O-31. O gauge tubular curves are available also on O-42, O-54 and O-72. It seems like K-Line may have offered even broader curves. If you choose to buy used track, pay attention to rust! A slight amount of rust and dirt can be easily cleaned with a scotchbrite pad. Heavy rust may compromise the tin-plating. New track pins are a good idea when using older track.
Williams also offers both O and O-27 tubular track.
God bless TCA 05-58541 Benefactor Member of the NRA, Member of the American Legion, Retired Boss Hog of Roseyville , KC&D Qualified
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