Scale Rail

[DSchmitt]

Be aware that smaller rail can cause problems with some equipment due to wheel flange depth.

A few years ago a friend of mine was using code 83 for his main line - no problem, however he also had a logging railroad with code 70.  Unfortunately, most of the cars used on the logging line had deeper flanges than most of his mainline stock (which were ok on either size  rail).   They did not take well to the code 70 although they worked fine on the code 80.  Problem solved by replacing the wheels.

 

[IRONROOSTER]

Here's a chart of sizes http://www.urbaneagle.com/data/RRrailsizes.html

Enjoy

Paul 

[fwright]

Code 70 rail is closest to scale 115lb rail in HO, typically representing 100 or 110lb rail.  Since model rail is usually slightly wide through the rail head, code 70 rail would give the best overall appearance in photos and scale examinations.

By the way, use of 110-120lb rail was quite common on many main lines, especially in the MidWest from the 1920s at least until the 1940s, and quite likely into the '50s and '60s.  Code 55 rail (75lb in HO scale) would be appropriate for spurs and yards in those situations.

ME and Shinohara make code 70 flex track and turnouts, and ME makes code 55 flex in HO gauge.

hope this helps

Fred W 

[jeffrey-wimberly]

I usually don't scale down to rail size, just use whatever is cheapest, almost always code 100. If you want scale size, code 83 will probably be your better bet.

[JWhite]

According to the references I have, the mainline rail on the IC was 115 pound rail.  So do I use code 100 or code 83 for the mainline?

Jeff