Have I Invested in a Dead Product Line?

[overall]

Tom,

I would like to see pictures of the layout when it's finished. It would be interesting to see what scenary and structures you choose for it.

George

[jonadel]

I have 100% RealTrax, it was an evolutionary thing that took over my layout. It started with a simple starter set and one thing led to another and before I knew what happened, I was past the point of no return. I have really enjoyed working with the
RealTrax and switches and any problem I've had have been "operator error". We went ahead and ballasted everything to make it look even better. Overkill? Probably, but it's our little escape from reality and we are very proud of it.

We will do a complete rebuild in a few years and that point we will decide on whether to keep RealTrax or go Gargraves. Part of my decision would hinge on what I could get out of my RealTrax and switches plus how the old hands are holding up.

Jon

http://jands.logicalgeek.com/main.php

[spankybird]

QUOTE: Originally posted by joe0315

I would guess that 98% responding to the old "Best track" question will name the brand they have spent their bucks on. Joe

Close, it's 6 foot by 8 foot.

I have the same track plan on my circus layout which uses 027 tube track with K-line switches and is 5 foot by 8 foot.

I didn't want to use Fastrack because of the noise and 036 radius would have made it too large.

I stayed away from GG and Ross switches because fo the time frame which I have to build this. It has to be done by May 14, 2006.

tom

[Buckeye Riveter]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Allan Miller

"I would guess that 98% responding to the old "Best track" question will name the brand they have spent their bucks on."-- Joe
------------------

And I would guess that you're 100% right, Joe!

I'm one of the two percent. If I did it again, Gargraves would be my choice.

[Anonymous]

"I would guess that 98% responding to the old "Best track" question will name the brand they have spent their bucks on."-- Joe
------------------

And I would guess that you're 100% right, Joe!

[Dr. John]

QUOTE: Originally posted by Ogaugeoverlord

If I thought it was dead, I wouldn't be replacing my tubular track with it.

Say it ain't so, Bob! [:O][;)]

[Brutus]

Cool layout Spankybird - is that 5 x 10 or so?

[Anonymous]

I would guess that 98% responding to the old "Best track" question will name the brand they have spent their bucks on. Joe

[danrunner]

Wallyworld,

I like Realtrax better than the Lionel stuff. I'd be willing to arrange a trade piece-for-piece, etc. I miss the slide-on lock-ons of MTH. I like the black center rail better, as well.

Let me know if you're interested. I emailed you privately, as well.

Dan

[dbaker48]

Very nice job! Is the top surface recessed?

[spankybird]

I am in the middle of building a layout with Realtrax for one of our Museum customers.



Here is a link for more pics

http://www.wrmrrm.shutterfly.com/action/pictures?a=67b0de21b338fe2d25be

tom

[Buckeye Riveter]

Have have a layout full of RealTrax and it works great. I also, as Dave hinted at above, have Gargraves track that connects to RealTrax.

[FJ and G]

Who cares? You can connect RealTrax with ANY other style 3 - rail track and make the roadbed look the same. I can tell you how when the time comes (or if it comes)

[Anonymous]

I have both--FasTrack and RealTrax. My own preference of the two is FasTrack, but that's just me.

I was using RealTrax long before FasTrack was introduced, and kind of poo-pooed FasTrack until I finally bought a Lionel starter set that included that track. Even then I held off doing anything with it because I was already using RealTrax.

About a year or so ago, however, I decided I would try a loop of FasTrack, and really liked the appearance; the way it fit together; and the overall durability. Went out and bought some switches and the operating crossing signal accessory, and then I was hooked. Both systems are fine, but I just liked the features of FasTrack better--especially the way it locked together almost seamlessly and the smooth and dependable operation of the switches. Again, that was/is strictly a personal choice.

I imagine both lines of track will be around for a long time, and both will continue to expand their offerings. Pick and use the one you prefer, and don't worry much about what others choose to use.

[Bob Keller]

If I thought it was dead, I wouldn't be replacing my tubular track with it.

[jefelectric]

I have it on a portion of my layout and have not heard anything about it being discontinued. Two shops in my area stock a pretty complete line of it. Saw a lot at York as well.

[darianj]

Bad investment? I don't think so. They may not have EVERYTHING that you are looking for, but it's definitely at good product from a good Co. (that seems to be doing good financially compared to others).

[pbjwilson]

My layout is Realtrax. I like it and hobby shops in my neck of the woods stock everything MTH makes for Realtrax. They also have a catenary system if that is an interest. Dont know of another manufacturer that offers that. Used Realtrax sells very well on e-bay as well.

[jimhaleyscomet]

I do not think so. Each line has its own advantages. Fastrak is louder but more robust if you assemble/dissasemble often. If you really decide to change, sell it on ebay about 4 - 10 pieces at a time. You should recieve market value or better.

Jim H

[Anonymous]

MTH has a lot more track accessories than lionel.

I have looked into it.

[Anonymous]

I doubt it.
Call MTH Customer Service and ask Them.

[wallyworld]

I have several boxes of MTH Realtrax for a future layout. Does anybody know any plans for this product line to be expanded for more design options. Everything seems to slant toward the Lionel Fast Track or traditional tinplate track as far plans are concerned. Am I stuck with a white elephant?