Code 83 vs. Code 100

[cnatale]

Hi all, I am planning on building a new HO layout, and some visits to my local hobby shops seem to show that Code 100 is being replaced with code 83 track. It seems like turnouts and the like are more readily available for code 83 track. Would it then make the most sense to use code 83 track rather than code 100 flex track (as I had been planning) to avoid track availability problems in the future? Thanks in advance!

-Chris-

[rogerhensley]

As long as you don't use any of the European models with the deep flanges like the older Rivarossi, you should have no problems.

Roger

[BRAKIE]

Chris,As far as I know there is no plans to phase out code 100. Many modelers including myself use it.I work part time in a hobby shop and code 100 still is a top seller.
Now for your question. You must choose which size track is right for your needs.
Comment: I perfer code 100 due to the fact that once it is painted and ballast it doesn't look as big and I find for me,that it is more easier to work with...

[Anonymous]

I spoent a lot of time thinking about track size for my new layout. I decided on code 100 instead of code 83 for the following reasons:

1. I use DCC and I am told by several knowledgable people that code 100 is more foolproof than smaller track sizes. A friend of mine has a DCC layout with code 70 track and several of his locos (Bachman)have trouble running consistently.

2. I wanted to use Peco turnouts, so my choice was code 100 or code 70. The code 100 was more cost effective as the Peco codee 100 stuff is frequently sold at a street price less thanthe code 70 stuff.

3. Once I weathered an ballasted the code 100 track it looks pretty darn good. Many layouts featured in MR use code 100 track and photgraph well.

[dknelson]

David Barrow, one of the great modelers of our time has switched to Code 100 for its greater structural integrity.

[Anonymous]

Chris,

I use Code 100 on my HO Scale layout. I know that Code 83 most nearly matches the depth of 135 lb rail used in heavy main line service today but I don't think it is easily noticable. Part of the problem is that the rail may be different but it is the track ties, spikes and plates molded into the plastic that make the most difference in appearance. Having said all that, I think Code 100 is and will continue to be the most available. I also like Peco turnouts and they are Code 100. Unfortunately, I have alot of other turnouts to swap out someday. I discovered Peco well after I started. Do whatever you think is best and don't worry about the MRR Police. - Ed

[Anonymous]

It is interesting that you mention david. i met him at the 2000 NMRA Convention in San Jose. He is a wonderful person. He recommended to me at that time using code 100--it is what he used in his Cat Mountain and Santa Fe. i believe that he is starting a new layout with an industrial theme.

[dknelson]

interestingly, Peco also has a very extensive line in Code 77 (I think I have that right) a size unique to them, to my knowledge.
I agree with our friend Ed -- do what you feel suits you best. Don't rule things out because they are or aren't mentioned in the magazine. Try for yourself -- track is cheap enough, buy a few lengths of various sizes, lay it on cork and see how you like it
Dave

[cnatale]

Thanks, All. I guess I should look around for a hobby shop that has a better selection of code 100 track, or see if the local ones would special order code 100 turnouts. (the only available ones that I've been able to find are Atlas Snap-switches). Ahhh, decisions.

-Chris-

[Anonymous]

Chris,

Definately stay away from snap switches!

While you make this decision, remember to check out the track detail like the tie plates, etc. Also look at a few turnouts. I hear the Micro Engineering makes a great flex track that uses code 83 rail. I think their bridge track is great. You could even start a thread asking for opinions on track, turnouts, etc. and then mail order some of the most popular. For example, I recommend Atlas track because it is cheap and reliable, but later you may want to move it into your hidden staging areas if you become more particular in the future. Just something to think about. - Ed