Trackage
Everything on model trains, model railroads, model railways, locomotives, model train layouts, scenery, wiring, DCC and more. Enjoy the world's best hobby... model railroading!
Woodland Scenics Risers and Inclines – Thoughts Please
Daniel has O gauge and asks:
“Has anyone out there tried to use the risers and incline foam pieces with O gauge? Their risers and inclines are 2 1/2” wide, but their roadbed is 2 3/4”. Obviously a mismatch. I like the process better than trying to cookie cutter the pieces. Maybe, there is a way that still looks ok. Thanks for any experience.”
22 Inch Radius Curve – Inside or Outside Curve?
Timothy asks readers:
“Is the 22 inch radius inside middle or outside of HO track?”
How To Reduce Track Noise
Norman has a problem common to many layouts:
“I ran a vintage Lionel (California Zepher) around my room above the door and windows. When running the train, the noise from the wheels on the track is very loud. What can I put under the tracks on top of the plywood to reduce the noise?”
If you would like to assist Norman with a suggestion, then please use the COMMENTS link below his posting to add your thoughts. And, if you want to submit a question to the Blog Moderator for possible publication (10,000 readers weekly), use one of the ASK A QUESTION links on this site.
Power to Track but Locos Don’t Move
Gabriel seeks advice to solve his problem:
“After many years I’m back to model railways. My HO track is powered but the locos will not move. Please help.Thanks.”
Ballast for O Gauge
Reader Rob T wants to hear your thoughts on ballasting:
“I am building a O gauge layout and ready to put down ballast. Is there a better source to buy ballast than Woodland Scenics? Woodland has ballast in fine, medium, and coarse sizes. What size of ballast would you use? I was thinking about going with the light gray coarse ballast since most of the roadbed here in Texas is from limestone. At $13.00/bottle I would like to get it right the first time. I enjoy this website and used alot of suggestions.”
Which Track To Use?
Louis would like to hear from readers as to what type of track they personally prefer:
“Which track would you use for building my HO layout – Bachmann E-Z Track Nickel-Silver W/Gray Roadbed, or KATO Unitrack or Atlas code 83 track?”
Use the ‘COMMENTS’ link below this posting to add your thoughts.
Back Wheels Derailing
Reader Rob L sent in this question:
“I’ve got some vintage HO track. When the train goes through the switch the front wheels go okay, but the back wheels go the other way and derail?
Crossover Problem
Chris asks: “I’ve a problem with my HO Atlas (X) cross over in that I get a stall and will not go through. If I power through it sometimes works and others a hesitation. I’m running straight DC with equipment from the 1960-1970’s except for track (Peco & Atlas).”
What’s The Best Track Laying Method?
Brizee is new to the hobby and asks:
“Being a newcomer, what is considered to be the best method of securing N scale Peco Streamline Code 80 flexible track?”
Laying Atlas 100 Super Flex Track
Joseph has this question:
“Guys. I need a straight answer please. When laying HO flex track does it matter how you lay it? It’s about split right now some say out side some say inside some say it don’t matter. Please help I’m really confused. I’m building a 20 x 12 foot layout and I’m looking for the right way and the best way to go about it. Thanks guys.”
Replacement for Gargraves Points
John asks O Gauge readers:
“Has anyone come up with a better check-rail for 0 gauge Gargraves switches (points)? The glued-in plastic ones come loose too easily.”
Fixing Problem Crossovers and Switches
Derek asks readers:
“Bachmann nickel silver #5 switches and #6 crossovers look good, but don’t operate that well. I’m having problems with derailments when a train enters a turnout. The rails seem to move a fraction, just enough to create a gap. The frogs are okay. The first 4 or 6 engine wheels usually make it over the turnout without a problem. However, problems can happen when the wheels on the following trucks pass over the same spot. They often want to go in a different direction.
I thought I might have a go trying to fix it with my Dremel tool by grinding the stationary rails so as to create a small notch where they touch the moving rails. I wondered about strengthening the springs underneath the turnouts, but I’m not sure if this is a good idea or how to go about it.
I would really appreciate some advice from others who know more about these problems than I do. Thanks.”
The ASK A QUESTION link is under every post if you have a question you would like published.
Helix Question
A readers asks:
“I don’t know how wide the pieces need to be for 2 HO scale lanes on the same helix, just exiting at different levels.”
Turnout Switching Compatibility
Ed who models N scale asks readers this question:
“I know I can connect my Atlas code 80 track to my Kato Unitrack. I’m running my mainline with Kato and going to Atlas for an inner loop and yard. My question is in regards to turnouts. If I have a Kato turnout connected to an Atlas turnout, Can I somehow connect both to a single Kato (or Atlas) switch so that a single switch will control both turnouts?”
Planning Super Elevated Curves
Ross M sent in this question for readers:
“I am planning an HO layout with super elevated curves of 28 inches to 30 inches in radius I think. My question is how much higher would the outer rail be than the inner rail?”
If you would like to have your question on this blog (10,000 readers weekly), use the ‘Ask A Question’ link below each posting.
Fixing Turnout Switch Failures
Ed who models HO scale asks readers:
“I am having problems with the switches pressed to actuate a turnout. I’m finding them staying stuck in the depressed condition causing the turnout motor to melt. Does anyone else see this problem. Its happened to me enough times to get expensive.”
Upper Level Track Clearance And Gradient
Shane models HO and asks readers:
“I want to run a double track to a proposed new upper level on my 4×9 setup and want to know how high to make it above the lower level. I don’t want the gradient too steep but still want enough clearance for access and for trains to run under the top level. Sorry if that sounds confusing.”
Grade Crossing Signals
Bill models HO scale and has this question for readers:
“I would like to place a micro Denver or switch to turn my grade crossing signals, but don’t now what to use, how to do it, or where to buy needed items.”
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