I'm starting to design a D&RGW or DSP&P (or both) layout. I'll be hand-laying and hand-spiking. I understand that Code 55 rail better matches the weights used by the prototypes. However, do I risk more operational problems with it due to tighter clearances? Or is Code 55 noticeably harder to lay/spike? Is Code 70 a better compromise? FWIW, I'm more of a builder than an operator. But after finishing a feature it is nice to have a victory lap, and I'd just as soon the train didn't derail for that. Cheers, Jeff.
Not much of a difference at all. The rail is a little taller in 70 than 55, but both will lay fine. I've built track and switches in both and haven't noticed anything. About the only difference you would have to worry about is if you were getting Fast Track jigs.
Thanks, Art. Yeah, I am planning on using Fast Tracks. I think I'm going to go with their Twist Ties as I'm too old school to get my head around the whole PC-board tie thing. Cheers, Jeff.
Jeff ... the only 'watch-out' I can tell you about from experience: Code 55 looks really good, but you have to be careful when you set the spikes. Too much pressure can create vertical curves that can, and will cause derails. Of course, flange clearance of the spikeheads is also an issue. It's a challenge to use #55 but well worth it. Good luck! Oh yeah ... welcome to Trainboard. We are happy to have you aboard!
Hi Bill, Thanks for the welcome! I assume flange clearance is less of an issue with Code 70? (Or is it mostly that if a spike isn't in all the way then it's going to cause issues on either one?) And I guess Code 70 has less of an issue with over-spiked "waves" because it's taller track is less vertically flexible. I've got one 4% grade on the layout. I assume a 9" transition to flat on either side will bend vertically easily enough with either 55 or 70? I'm pushing the boat out (for me) in several areas on this one (first hand-laid track, first spline sub-roadbed, etc.), so it might be better not to go toooo far out if the 55 is going to induce more issues.... Cheers, Jeff.
Yes, Jeff. The larger the rail the less problem(s) you would have with running the trains. However, if the ratio of code 70 as compared to the real thing, the rail weight would be enormous. Just does not look realistic as it might. Older cars have larger wheel flanges, while modern cars have wheel silhouetts a little closer to prototypical scale. For example, take a close look at what the N scale wheel flanges look like on N scale rail (of whatever # rail). Just does not look good! I, like many others in Trainboard have been handlaying rail for many years. It is fun and allows us to fit turnouts and other features of the trackplan easily. I used to use the spikes, but my eyes are not as good as they used to be, so I've used hot glue for the past 5 years or so. It took some getting used to, but it works well, and it's easier to make small adjustments to the gauge than it is with spikes. One of the problems I have always experienced with spikes is: 1. There will always be those that slip off of the long-nose pliers as you try to push them into the tie, and you will never be able to find them. However, the magnets in the loco motor will, and bring things to a stop! 2. Some of the spikes will eventually work themselves loose from the tie and there again, will be attracted to the magnetic pull of the loco as it passes by. What I might suggest would be ... try laying some rail of different code and see what you like the best. Code 100 is easier to work with as it has a little more resistance to deformation as you put it down as compared to #70, and especially #55. You can always take up the practice pieces and use them again in your layout (so nothing is lost). Don't be afraid to build your own crossovers and turnouts. All you need, for the most part, is a NMRA track guage and perhaps a template or two.
Yeah, that's probably a good idea. I could go ahead and get Code 55 tooling and rail and build a practice turnout or two, and if they go pear-shaped, then I can decide at that point whether to practice more, or move to 70. Cheers, Jeff.
I doubt it's very different from handlaying C55 in N scale - With 1:87 equipment on it, C55 will like gooooooood. Think about doing a C70 main and C55 sidings for visual effect. C55 rail may be flimsy, but believe me, in N the weakest point are the tiny PCB ties.
