I decided to build a shelf layout and have a couple of questions regarding track. I looked at Atlas and Peco as well as Kato Uni-track. Has anyone used the Uni track? It looks pretty solid and is already ballasted. Will I have to solder the joints together or is it ok just as it comes out of the box? I know I'll have to solder with Peco and Atlas. Any suggestions for the ballast under the track? Woodlands makes some not bad looking stuff and there is always cork. I'm going to be making the layout in sections so I can work on each one and then if I decide, I can move them around as well. Suggestions? Thanks.
It really comes down to your skill level with track products. Kato makes very reliable products, but it is costlier than regular track. Regular track also comes in flex track sections. Once you start using flex track it's hard to go back to the limits of sectional style track. My advice is to read up on how to lay track, get some good tools for doing it, and use Peco or Atlas.
I built a 3x12 foot N Track module set with Kato unitrack. Other than a couple of #4 turnouts that caused me some trouble, I've had good luck with it. Worked fine straight from package. Extra power feeders not a bad idea though. I ballasted my track, because I chose to. Weathering alone should help the looks a bit. If you don't mind the rail size, tie spacing etc...then no problems. As someone told me once, it a situation of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter. Guess it all depends on how fast you want to set up and how much work you want to do. I'm preparing to build a new layout, using cork and Atlas C55 track this time. Others will have plenty more to say! Comments are based on MY experiences only.
What's about hand laid turnouts...once you started this buisiness you will never ever go back to the geometrie restrictions with atlas &Co
ok, so I cut 3 pieces of 3/8" 18"x4' for my layout. What is the proper way to glue the pink foam insulation to it securely? Silicone? Liquid nails? hot glue? The plywood is fairly dry so it will absorb quite alot of glue. What does everyone use? And to secure the track to the foam? I was going to use cork painted grey or black to simulate ballast. Thanks.
