Anybody have pics of Cement Tied Track? In my little Diorama I wanted it to have them, but having trouble finding pics. Also, if it's "cluttered" industry track would the Atlas code 55 flextrack, with a little tie sanding give enough impression of cement track with a splash of proper coloring?
Cement ties are most commonly found on extremely busy stretches of mainline. Some examples include the Powder River Basin in Wyoming, the UP's mainline between North Platte and Omaha, and some stretches of the Northeast Corridor. Industrial sidings would still be wooden ties, and most likely the switch to them would be as well.
Ken, I know there have been at least a few discussions on Trainboard about this in the past so you might try doing a search. Try "concrete ties" as that is the commonly used terminology as opposed to cement. Good luck! EDIT: Try this link... http://jerrysharp.railfan.net and go to the Powder River Section. Doug A. [ 08. January 2003, 21:59: Message edited by: Doug A. ]
Regarding sanding Atlas code 55, the main issue there is the "taper" in the center of the prototype track. This would be a lot of work and sanding to achieve this look. The Peco concrete flextrack is decent, although it still needs to be painted/weathered in my opinion. Plus, there is taper to the outside of the ties which is not per US prototype, but this is not as noticeable as not having the taper in the middle, I think. I have a photo of some Peco Code 55 that I painted...it's not great but it might give you some idea. http://www.tower55.com/pix/disc/layout1.jpg It's the track in the far back with the BN coal train. Hope this helps, Doug
Hmmm... OK advise processed. Harron- I'll check sites that hit those areas. Thanks for the pointing the direction. Also, The area I'm doing is going to be a part of the town's "reclaiming" area; everythings being cleaned up. Doug- Thanks for the links. That Basin track almost looks like a continuos pour a concrete. Those ties are sure close appearing. As for my search found some stuff, but several had pics that had been moved/removed. Search and thoughts continue...
