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How To Deaden The Sound on EZ Track
Simon writes:
“I am past the planning stage of my layout and actually have a few scenery elements in position. My track (I’m using EZ track), is already down, it has been since July, but not fastened in position yet. I don’t 100% like the look, but I will try and hide the ugliest sections if someone has any ideas. I don’t want the added cost of changing to a regular track. That said; I would like to know how I can reduce the noise caused by the big empty space. I went off the idea of expansion foam in case it lifted the track. What do people suggest fill the empty space and deaden the noise?”
9 Responses to How To Deaden The Sound on EZ Track
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I’d just use cut styrofoam you salvage and put into void. Did that between dishwasher and can’t hear it.
I know the track mentioned is a very easy route but the noise issue is a problem if laid on a relatively solid base”MDF” type board. I can offer a suggestion as you have the the system relatively laid out to your satisfaction, is to maybe use a foam core board found in craft stores about 1/4″ inch thick and slide it under the now existing track and some parts of the now exisiting scenery models.For a adhesive I would suggest Copydex if that is available in your locale , it is a rubberized type which means track can be lifted with no damage. As per changing the look of the track ,I have painted the ties in a tie brown and followed up with ballast ,of which ever type/colour you are using and by using a small artists brush painting between the ties and sides of the track with semi dilute PVA adhesive taking care not to get adhesive on the tie faces, then sprinkle on the ballast, be generous and retrieve residue afterwards you can always add more afterwards for missed areas.A point I missed is to paint the rails their brown semi rust color before you start the ballast. I do use this track on some parts of my layout here in Panama on some of the tighter curves,I work on a 30″ minimum, but the times when I have needed to use a horrendous curve I have found my method has worked well to match up with the propriety available flex track. I trust this helps. Regards J
I put a sound deadener under Kato Unitrack called CCW-705, an underlayment.
I have also filled Kato Unitrack base with spray in foam insulation …wiped off excess and then cut it off flat once it has expanded and dried. I run LokSound Sound Decoders.
I have used TRACKRITE flexible track underlay under my track. It costs around A$16 per 5 metres and is available at many Australian hobby shops or on ebay. It is a black closed foam material. I have read that the Peco and Hornby foam underlay will oxidise and crumble after a few years, especially if your layout room is subject to high temperature and humidity. TRACKRITE is claimed to be made from material which will stand up to this. The H505F rectangular section would do the job for you. I used Selleys water based KWIK GRIP for sticking down track and underlay and sticking down styrofoam for scenery. If you change your mind about what you are doing, I found it easy to get a knife under it and relay it. Maybe use Selleys SPACE INVADER expanding foam to fill the void under the track sections before sticking them to the Trackrite. It is quite soft after it has set, so it is easy to trim.
I like ez for test tracks. The easiest way to deaden the sound it to wear ear plugs. Problem solved.
There is a board if you can find it called homasote sold in 4×8 sheets. Cheaper than track replacement
and takes track nails real well.
There is a board if you can find it called homasote sold in 4×8 sheets. Cheaper than track replacement
and takes track nails real well. I know several people that have the whole layout covered with this and then you can run track anywhere you want
The traditional method for sound deadening is cork sheet underlay, model railroad shops usualls sell this.
If you are happy with your track position, trace the track with a marker, then simply secure it with a fat bead of all purpose silicon sealer. This is awesome for absorbing sound and vibration. Ps isnt this a wonderful adventure.