I am interested in setting up an n scale layout, it will be my first model train layout. I have decided on the NCE power cab but not sure what track to use? I have a friend who does HO and he uses ez track and likes it, but I have read some negative reviews too. Is there a prefered brand for n scale? Is the ez track good? Thanks for any help
One major thing I want to point out is the difference in Bachmann quality from HO to N scale. In HO scale, Bachmann has an average rep. But in N scale, stay far far away. Anyways, on to track. Most track works great, the difference is in style and application. Here's a quick breakdown of what I consider the more popular brands: (Code refers to the height of the rail. The larger the number, the taller the rail) Code 80 Flex (Atlas) - Most reliable, moderate skill required to lay. Not true to prototypical. Large variety of turnouts. Code 80 Snap track (Atlas) - Exactly like Code 80 Flex, only in fixed sections. Easy to lay. Large variety of curves, straights, and turnouts. Code 80 Unitrack (Kato) - Most reliable, easiest to lay. Not true to prototype (unless you're modeling Japanese railroads). Good variety of curves, straights. Two turnout options. Code 65 True-Track (Atlas) - Most reliable, easiest to lay, very accurate to prototype. Small variety (though growing). Code 55 flex (Atlas, Micro Engineering, Peco) - Usually reliable, slightly more skill required than Code 80. Most accurate to prototype. (Atlas Code 55 has some compatibility issues with wheel sets, but supposedly its being corrected.) Good variety of turnouts. Of those, both Unitrack and True-Track have the roadbed molded into the section, so no cork or foam roadbed required. The cost factor between the more expensive molded roadbed vs the cheaper track on cork/foam roadbed option is a mute point anymore. The savings in price is lost in the time of assembly and vice-versa. Code 55 flex is slightly more than Code 80 flex. Usually each manufacturers line of track can support everything needed, but there are ways to combine them. For a list of possible dealers, check out our TrainBoard Advertisers. I myself will be using Code 55, and even Code 40 for sidings on my next layout, Thunder Ridge, which construction is set to begin immediately.
Thank you so much Mark, you answered every question I had. Breaking them down like that was extremely helpful to a newbie like me. I really appreciate it!
I "second" the suggestion for "Unitrack"...........if you're sure of your track-laying skills, and that's part of what makes modeling fun for you, do the "flex track" route, by all means. If, however, your goal is to get trains running & learn other things such as scenery & building construction, etc., then you will be more than pleased with "Unitrack". Just my "pair of pennies"..........
I highly recommend Kato Unitrack for anyone just getting started in N scale. It is very reliable and can be reused again and again (or sold for a good return if you later decide to move into flex track). The double-crossover turnout is among the most well engineered N scale products ever offered.
I was just looking at some unitrack online. It appears all unitrack is the same code, correct? How do the turnouts get powered? Do they come with a motor and power supply or does the powercab operate them?
Correct. Unitrack turnouts do have a motor inside but you will need an accessory decoder to control them from your power cab. The Digitrax DS64 module is a popular choice for Unitrack Turnouts as it can operate 4 turnouts.
i could have used this post a month ago. i started n scale for the first time and dove right into atlas flex track. it didnt work too well for me. i had derailments from the start. after reading some more posts, i ripped up the flextrack and went with kato unitrack. i am very happy with the decision.
First rule for those new to N scale (as well as those not so new): "When in doubt, ask the fine folks at Trainboard!" I now use Altas code 55 exclusively, but my last layout was all Unitrack and I still have it all packed away for the day when I need to set up a loop (or more) in the old model railroader's home. I even have one of those long gone double track Kato road crossing sets. A bit "Lionelesque," but they sure are fun. :thumbs_up:
One thing to help to determine which track to use is how handy are you? If you are not at all mechanically inclined and are not good with tools then Kato Unitrack is the best choice for you. If you are good with precision work and very handy with tools then I would suggest using code 55, you will like the results. If you are a tweener, ( someone between the two ), Then I would consider using code 80 sectional track and maybe using flex track for long straight sections. If I am comfortable with cutting track then I would even use flex in place of curved sections. One important key to laying good track no matter which kind you use is to have a smooth flat surface to attach the track onto. I sand down all the joints in the wood or foam base to get rid of any bumps. I also sand down the road bed before I lay track. You always want to test fit any pieces before you glue track down. A bad fitting piece could be a derailment every time. Hope this helps, Craig
A Unitrack layout still in working phase. http://www.trainboard.com/railimages/showgallery.php?cat=2289
I see some unitrack is called viaduct, what exaclty is this? Is it interchangable with regualr untitrack?
He omitted one factor: availability. If there isn't a train store within 200 miles that stocks unitrack, for instance, you could face some long delays if you change your mind or miscalculate your on-line order! Imagine the frustration of getting within two feet of finishing a loop so you could actually put the train on and watch it go roundy round awhile and not being able to do it until your (backordered) track arrives in 3 weeks. Just something to consider.
While true, you can have a complex layout running in one day with Unitrack. This is not possible with flex track. Also, you can make changes on the fly with Unitrack. Again, this is not so easy with flex track. My Unitrack layout was up and running while the flex guys were still laying track and solving derailment problems. ?Don't get me wrong, flex track can be the best choice for many modelers, but so can Unitrack. For a first layout Unitrack is hard to beat.
I went through that in January. I finialy just had to buy a lot of extra sizes and shapes. it took a while but I got it done. Just need a lot of patience or you will be disappointed if you take short cuts. I have a Unitrack SuperElevated V11 and I modified it to fit a 3x8 bench. Now I'm doing a C55 layout.
If you don't have a train store within 200 miles of your house, you will have the same wait for any kind of track you purchase. Why would Kato unitrack take any longer to deliver ? Do some planning in advance and place an order. Regards, Keith.
CraigN hit the nail on the head when replying ... especially the comfort level part lol. My new URRR (sorry Kayla's) is all done in sectional because I have an impatient daughter who wanted to see the trains run. My ideal layout would be like my first one, a mix of Atlas Code 80 flex track, combined with some PEco and PEco turnouts. It gave me hours of pleasure, and I felt comfortable with this. You have to be comfortable with your choice, and not only that, you have to like it! I fiddeld around with unitrack pieces, and Atlas before using Atlas SnapTrack, but thast's just me. I felt more comfortable spending a little more time on gettine the roadbed just right, and then laying the track on top. The imprtant thing is to proceed with what you are most comfortable with. Ask yourse.lf, will I be satisfied with the results? Also do you want to run trains quickly, or do you want to put in the extra effort to use prototypical track, maybe spend the extra time to get ti just right? These are things to consider when stasrting a layout for the first time. Also reme,ber that you may get tired of your first set-up. How easy will it be to modify? Take the time to plan, that always helps. These are things I picked up here and I am thankful for these little helpful hints. Cheers! Adam
