I know that the answer depends on how much ballast I want to add to the tracks, but based on an average measure, is there any value (weight) per unit lenght? Thanks
I saw a rough estimate somewhere that one 57.7 cubic inch shaker bottle of Woodland Scenics fine ballast is enough for 20-30 feet of HO track. I've also seen discussions that go on for pages with complex math calculations that become quite confusing. With that said ... "Weight" is a poor way to calculate ballast needs because it depends on what sort of ballast material you use. Woodland Scenics ballast is made from crushed walnut shells and so is much lighter than, say, Arizona Rock & Mineral ballast that is made from actual crushed rock. The size of the ballast grains makes a difference, too. Fine grained ballast will weigh more per foot than ballast with larger grains. Then there is whether you are ballasting a well maintained mainline or a scruffy old siding. Perhaps someone will come along with more help than I can provide. On the other hand, you might want to decide on the type of ballast you wish to use, order a small quantity, and see how many feet of track it covers. Other than that, my main recommendation is to use ballast made from actual rock. In my experience, it is much, much easier to use than the walnut-shell stuff! - Jeff
Jeff above is correct. I'll add that if you are depicting secondary or tertiary track, track not at main line height, that it's yard, industry, or a spur, track can be laid right down on your ply or foam surfaces (sub roadbed). Then way less ballast is needed. It can be strewn around along with weeds and stough. IF you are ballasting a high iron heavy duty main and track is elevated on cork or other you'll need allot more.. I too will suggest to not do any ballasting until all other features next to under or above trackage is complete. ...M
I just posted some information on cheap ballast at Harbor Freight. I have yet to master coloring it to my liking but you may want to check that out. the ballast 25 lbs Walnut Shell 24 Grit fine Abrasive Media 25 lbs Walnut Shell 12 Grit Course Abrasive Media 25 lb. Black Aluminum Oxide 70 Grit Abrasive Media 1 lb. Spark Plug Cleaner Media
