which track should i use on my layout? i have been buying marklin and have several turnouts and a box of the long flex track. i like the long track idea instead of a lot of short track because there are less joints. after looking at some posts on this site i think maybe i should go with the mtl track. oppinions would be appreciated. danny
Hi Danny, welcome to Trainboard! I have used handlaid track, MTL flextrack, Peco Flextrack, and Marklin turnouts. I also have some MTL roadbet track, and I really like it, but it is not as flexible design-wise. I use Peco flex and Marklin turnouts on my modules, but I like the looks of MTL fles and Peter Wright turnouts with NA tie spacing best. As far as for a small home layout I might be tempted to use MTL turnouts (due out any time). -Robert
It really does depend what your taste is. For instance, if you don't mind the road bed and track together, then the new MT sectional track with the new turnouts that are due next month is the way to go. Like the N scale kato unitrack, it is very smooth and hassel free. However, you'd have to work to make it look real. Now if you want to ballast your own track you have 3 choices, MT flex, Marklin, and Peco. MT flex is great and looks great...unless you want curves. Each section is only 12 inches, so you really can't bend one piece to get a curve. If you are good at sodering and that is not a problem, go for it. I tried and failed...and had to throw away too much track. I went to marklin sectional, took my time and like the looks after the rails are painted and the track ballasted to hide the chunky look that it has. I have no experience with Peco, but have not herd any complaints other than the fact that everyone wishes that Peco made a turnout for Z like the one for N.
thanks for the info. i have a full box of the marklin flex track that is 26'' long and a bunch of other small sections of marklin track. i allso have 4 remote turnouts. shure would hate to have to switch over to another brand now. i have been buying a little at a time over the years and now that they are finaly makeing some american engines i am ready to start my layout. ihave a hollow door that is 36'' x 80'' on folding legs. i think this will make me a nice 1rst layout. plan to do a norfolk southern yard. whats realy neet is i just got hired by norfolk southern as a engineer. i leave next wed. for school in deluthe georga. danny
Danny, If you have all that money invested in Marklin track, then there is no sence in waisting it. The money could be better use for engines and running stock. Some prefer the NA tie spacing of the MTL track, but I am not that picky. We always like new blood in the group. The only things is I hate to see you run the stripper colors(NS). There are other guys in this board who model NS. There is Phil with his marvelous Z scale carboard cars to the infamous Keeeeezz. I am sure they can provide you with all the information on NS items in Z, and the last thing I have to said is, Welcome to Z Trainboard.
