This layout was originally built in the 50's with code 100 brass rail and Tru-Scale milled wood roadbed. I acquired it a long time ago and have been storing it ever since. It's time to clear some stuff out an I'm wondering what (if anything) is worth salvaging. I'm going to remove the turntable, but what else? Turnouts, maybe? I'm not sure I want to use any brass rail. What does everybody think?
Too bad there’s no Model Railroad museum to donate it to. I figure the 50 year old wood roadbed wouldn’t be worth a hoot after pulling it up. Other than the turntable I’m thinking everything else has past its prime. Maybe some turnouts could be repurposed. On a side note, my first HO “layout” had brass flex track with those thin fiber ties. Yikes!
Thanks, Jim. I once considered putting it together and running it, but like most old school layouts, potential for operation and scenery is kind of limited. I'm debating on maybe salvaging the turnouts. I wonder what kind of a maintenance issue the brass rail would create. Maybe Wahl Clipper Oil would minimize that? Interesting thing about this layout:No ballast- just the roadbed painted gray. Anyone know if it came that way? BTW, I've seen the flex track with fiber ties but never used it. Guess you don't use water and white glue on the ballast if you know what's good for you.
Looks like that layout kept you busy at one time!! Lot's of room for switching, operating trains, and the memories that go with it. We've all been there, takin' one last look at an old layout before it got tossed out.
At one time it surely kept someone quite happy. But brass track these days is of minimal attraction to that greatest majority of us. I have a feeling this should be moved on down the recycling road...
It depends. I know some narrow gaugers who use radio control and on board battery power. Those guys would gladly take the track. The coupler magnets could certainly be re-used. But it depends on how much hassle you want to deal with.
Unfortunately, those aren't magnets. They are ramps made from a slightly bent piece of sheet metal- undoubtedly for use with some sort of archaic coupler system. Mantua? Baker? I really have no idea. Interesting but no use that I can see in this day and age. BTW, thanks to everyone that replied. Everything but the turntable will be gone
