I am a college student on a tight budget, but am willing to spend a little more than normal for good quality N scale flex track. I want something that is easy to mold into curves and is easily cut and looks good.
Peco seems popular from reading alot of articles, but was wondering how good the Atlas Code 55 is? Or are there better ones out there?
Any help would be great. Also, I have never used flex track before as I am beginning an N scale model. Any tips or advice?
Thanks,Joe
I am in the process of building a fair sized N scale layout. I have been using Model Power I got from Hobby Lobby with their 40% discount, used to be a good buy but recently the N scale has gone up from 12.99 to 16.99 for a package of 5 pieces. I tried to find it on line but am having a hard time finding it available. I went back to the Atlas as I have used it a lot on my HO scale I am also building.
The biggest difference I have found is that the Model Power will hold a curve somewhat where the Atlas will straighten itself back out when you release it. Both work very well. I do not know about the Peco flex track, but I am using the Peco turnouts. I am using the code 80 but it shouldn't make to much difference. Maybe some of the others will chime in and get the help you need. Mike
I used Atlas Code - 55 for my layout and am very pleased with the results and the price is less that any of the other code - 55.
The only draw back if you want to call it that is your locos and rolling stock must be equipped with wheels that have low profile flanges (RP - 25 wheels) which most all of the current equipment has.
I have been using Atlas n scale flex track sinse the 1970's and have never ever had it break from the ties or any other problem i have tried a couple type of switches and have had the rail pop off the ties , but never an atlas switch. you might say i am happy with the Atlas i have not tried the code 55 as i have way to much stuff that will not run on it.
when you are laying the track , if tou are going to connect 2 pieces of flex on a curve , be sure to solder the peices together b4 you bend them at the joint
good luck
Atlas code 55 is state of the art. (The problem with Micro Trains wheels is because they are NOT). Atlas offers a variety of turnouts, including a #10 and a curved, and their turnouts have metal, yet insulated frogs, so they are very DCC friendly. You do need to devise a means of throwing the points, which can be done with something as simple as a micro slide switch (which can also route the power to the frog) or as comprehensive as a Tortoise. If you've used Atlas -80 standard flex, you'll find the 55 is equally easy to use.
Micro Engineering also makes a good line of c55 flex, but it is very stiff, and can be difficult to work with. They also only offer a #6 turnout. I do use their bridge track, though. Very nicely detailed.
Another advantage of the Atlas system is a very comprehensive selection of sectional track, with a wide variety of curves, crossovers and short straight pieces. They are also releasing a re-rail track shortly. It really is the best bang for the buck.
Lee
Route of the Alpha Jets www.wmrywesternlines.net
I am not sure about the comparison of prices, but I used PECO code 55 on the one N-Scale layout that I built and would not hesitate to use it again. It was very easy to work with. It held its shape "curve" pretty well and looked great after it was glued down. I had about a hundred freight cars and only found one that the wheel flanges were too big to track properly. I think it was an older roundhouse car, but it was about eight years ago and I don't remember for sure. I think most of the brands of track out there today would be pretty good quality. I would look at some of the more popular brands and go with the one that you find the best deal on.
Peco makes a good solid system, the problem with it is the appearance. The ties are too fat, and spaced too far apart. It's made in England, so it meets a European standard. Looks way off for US specs.