This may seem like a very simple issue, but I am finding track selection to be the most complex decision I have encountered while building a Garden RR. My layout is 70' X 50' and will have approx. 700' of track. I am trying to find the most cost effective track to purchase. I am looking for code 332 flex track and will have a minimum 6' radius. My rolling stock is radio controlled and battery powered, so conductivity is not an issue. But I want to include switches in my track selection including remote operation of the switches. From what I have seen brass or aluminum rail looks to be the least expensive. I would appreciate community feedback on the types of flex track members have used, what it cost per foot, where they purchased the track, and how happy they are with the track. I am located in north central Florida so frost heave/damage is not an issue, but the summer sun sure is! Thank you for your help and guidance, I appreciate it!
Hi, you have choosen a tough subject at hand. Flex track should really be used by advanced modelers as it does take a good modeler to make the correct bends in the track without kinking it. I seen some modelers use a 30 gallon bucket to bend track around. Then you have to cut out where you want the switches because of the long length of track you get. aristocraft sells flex track, but you have to assemble it, you have to install the ties onto the rails which I heard is very hard. The other problem is finding code332 flex track. Since how G scale manufacturers know that mainly professional modelers use flex track, they make it in a code 250 due to modelers want accurate detail or as amateur modelers like me knick name the professionals "rivet counters". The rivet counters don't like code 332 track because they say it's not true to scale, most G scalers use code 332 because it is more durable and trains will have less tendency to derail Unfortunately you will find all precious metal related products high no matter what style or form it is in. Flex track may be less expensive, not by much, but have to be reminded your labor time involved to assemble it. Then the longest length Aristocraft makes is 6ft long in Flex track. Flex track does have an advantage of you can make any type curve anywhere you want or a series of snake curves. 700ft of track is a huge undertaking, especially in the wallet, the most expensive part of G scale besides locomotives. I myself decided to go with commecial premade curves and straight track from Aristocraft in code332. You will find that I'm different when it comes to G scale trains, I break all of the "rivet counters" rules and love every minute of it. I model in 1:29 scale ratio G scale and that is not a true scale ratio according to rivet counters, I use code 332 track and that is not true to scale either according to rivet counters. Everyone has their own way of doing things and I don't mind suggestions like you, but I don't like being told that I'm not accurate or I'm not correct in my modeling. We are all in this to have fun. Good luck in your venture and I'm sure others will help or offer their experiences and suggestion also. Send us pictures, would love to see how it comes along.
