I am new to this hobby and I am about to start building my benchwork - thank you all for your ideas to date in designing it. My benchwork is targeted for basic completion by end of February.
Now, the more I read, the more I am starting to think about my investment in track. I will be working in HO with DCC (I have a Digitrax Super Empire Builder Xtra). Initially I planned on using Bachmann E-Z track NS, and I have made a minimal investment in it. I have no other brand of track at this time, but I see many, many, people use Atlas Code 100 and Code 83.
I understand that Atlas track will require cork and ballast. Bachmann does not. The requirement for ballast is not a deciding factor.
My question to you wise advisors is: Which is a better investment plan? My layout is roughly 30" wide and runs the outside of a room that measures 10' by 12' with a 3'x3' peninsula.
Should I keep my E-Z track for my test track and build my layout with Atlas, or should I continue on with E-Z track and only use select pieces of Atlas as required (bridges, etc)?
This is a long-term plan and the layout will certainly be modified over time. I am looking for flexibility, adaptability and ease of consistency in running.
Appreciate your advice.
James:
I think that you should experiment with some flextrack (I would suggest code 83) to get a feel for what you can do with it versus the fixed radius and straights of the EZ track. You have some choices for your road bed - cork versus foam versus homasote - also. I prefer Homasote but others will give you guidance on the other types.
Joe
The biggest problem with Bachmann E-Z Track or any similar type is that it comes in such short pieces that you're going to have too many rail joints that can cause power loss. Flex track comes in 3 foot lengths so there are fewer joints to worry about.
JamesG I understand that Atlas track will require cork and ballast. Bachmann does not. The requirement for ballast is not a deciding factor.
I think the better question would be - "Which type of track will look more realistic when finished?"
Scale ballast will always look better than plastic ballast. However, it is a little more work because you have to use some type of roadbed, then add track to it. Also, with flextrack, you can get large smooth flowing curves easily.
Elmer.
The above is my opinion, from an active and experienced Model Railroader in N scale and HO since 1961.
(Modeling Freelance, Eastern US, HO scale, in 1962, with NCE DCC for locomotive control and a stand alone LocoNet for block detection and signals.) http://waynes-trains.com/ at home, and N scale at the Club.
cacole The biggest problem with Bachmann E-Z Track or any similar type is that it comes in such short pieces that you're going to have too many rail joints that can cause power loss. Flex track comes in 3 foot lengths so there are fewer joints to worry about.
The other issue with EZ Track is that you're limited to what radii it comes in. Whereas, with flextrack, you can bend to whatever radius you want.
Marlon
See pictures of the Clinton-Golden Valley RR
I would go with the Atlas track of your choice and use the woodland scenics foam roadbed. It's relatively inexpensive and easy to work with. You'll notice the difference in a hurry.
Springfield PA
Thanks for the advice. I am pretty sure I am going to start a transition to Atlas Flex Track and Snap Track for the shorter sections
Appreciate all your input.
The only real problem I see is easements. With EZ track you don't get any. Easements improve operations. EZ track is faster and some what more expensive, but it does have a nice selection of curve radii, turnouts, and straight sections. Your layout's big enough that you should be able to avoid really tight spots where the curve radius is not quite right. It will also be easier to rearrange your track layout.
Overtime the rail joiners may degrade in electrical connectivity, so use lots of feeders and seriously consider soldering shorter pieces with jumper wires from adjacent track. (You'll have to cut them to rearrange the track - but that's easier than unsoldering railjoiners.)
BTW make sure to use the NS version of EZ track.
In the end of course it's about trade offs. And I have gone both ways depending on circumstances. In your case I'd probably go with EZ track for the ability to easily re-arrange the track and easier installation.
Enjoy
Paul