A while back someone posted a comment about loose ties that were dimensionally compatible with Atlas code 83 flextrack. I've searched but have been unable to find the post. Can someone point me to a source for these ties? I've decided I don't care for shaving spike heads and tie plates of the trimmings.
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Hi, Carl
I use Northeastern HO "low profile" ties. They are .053 thick and match up pretty well with my Shinohara ties at .065.
Maybe the low profile are no longer available? [edit] Walthers says they will be in after the 15th.
https://www.walthers.com/low-profile-wood-ties-pkg-500
These might be better for the Atlas track which is .080 thick:
https://northeasternscalelumber.com/shop/railroad-car-parts/horrties.html
Northeastern may have other sizes, too, so check their site.
Once stained they blend in to fill the gaps just fine. Still, for most places I still use the plastic tie strip. I take a quick swipe with a #11 to cut the "spikes" off and once under the rail joiners I simply apply a little heat from a soldering iron to soften the tie a little and I can see the joiner "settle in" to the softened tie.
Good Luck, Ed
HO scale 6X8 strip wood is pretty close. It's somewhat thinner, so it slides easily under rail joiners.
This track is Atlas 83. All of the ties at the joints are strip wood.
Rob Spangler
Edit:
5/32" 3/32" square sticks from Midwest products are pretty close I think. May need to sand a little. Its also what I use for handlaying. Come to think of it, if you have MRVP, check out the 5 part video on handlaying by Tony Koester. I think that is where I got the idea.
you will need to measure the ties you have and find that size or they won't match. A benefit from shaving off the scrap pieces you already have.
Steve
I checked this under a piece of atlas code 83 flex. http://midwestproducts.com/products/3-32x3-32x24-basswood-strip-sku-4033
Each 24" long piece makes approximately 20 ties. They match the Atlas Code 83 tie width exactly, and it is .009-.010 taller than the Atlas ties depending on where you measure. They can be easily sanded down to the correct height.
I found them for $.39 each. Try one and see if you like it. I used yellow glue to attach them. The bulk price break down from the manufacturer is $.21.
Check your local hobby/craft store.
They fit exactly under PECO code 100 turnouts.