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Code 70, Code 83 and Code 100 Track
George wants to hear from anyone with knowledge of Code 83, Code 70 and Code 100 track:
“After decades of good intentions but little time, I have finally jumped into the water and started my foray into HO model railroading. I am ready to start building a layout with Atlas track, intending to use Code 100 for the main track runs and Code 83 for sidings and/or branch lines. I plan to use flex track as much as possible. It seems that the few references I have seen reflect the use of Code 83 and Code 70. Is there some reason that I should avoid using the codes that I want to use?”
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5 Responses to Code 70, Code 83 and Code 100 Track
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George, it’s as much personal preference as anything on which code track you choose. Code 83 rail height is a little closer to the 136 lb rail used on prototype railroad mainlines. Code 70 is a little closer to siding and branch line rail that is a little lighter than mainline rail.
There’s nothing wrong with using Code 100 track. Visually, it looks a little larger than prototypical.
I use code 100 rail in staging yards and where the track is less visible, mainly because I have an abundance of it. I use Code 83 on visible mainline and code 70 for sidings and branches. But that’s my preference.
Good question. I thought the different sizes were all good.
Would like to find out also.
DW
I personal use all code 83 because there is better and a more diverse assortment of turnouts for that code. I ripped out all the code 100 on my layout because of derailment issues and the narrow assortment of turnouts. Code 70—-just by going in to a store and pulling a turnout off the rack I never have see a code 70 turnouts If at all posible avoid using No4’s on your layout long engines and long trains don’t like them—power all your frogs in the yard so they don’t stall at every switch unless you want to do all you switching at 60mph Good Luck~AlanC.
Thanks! I greatly appreciate the great input and will go the 83 route.
I use code 70 because it is more realistic to short line railroading. Q. who makes DCC ready code 70 turnouts??? So far I have to convert regular DC turnouts which is a pain. PaulP [email protected]