I have Lionel trains from the 50's and have used the tubular O-27 track since that time. It seems like it's time to replace the old track with new. Keep in mind that I only set up my trains a couple times a year - Christmas and whenever the spirit moves me. So my train ovals are being broken down a couple times a year. Should I continue to use the Lional tubular track? Or, is there a better option - FasTrack, RealTrax, something else? Thanks Alan
I still just use the tubular O-27 when I put up my X-Mas layout but have been considering something that might look nicer such as FasTrack... - - -
I have always liked their old tinplate track. Classic stuff, even if outdated. Were I to get back into Lionel, my choice would be to just stick with it. Another reason being cost- FasTrack is more money. Otherwise, it seems very good. Boxcab E50
I like Realtrax. It allowed me to go from a board to white paper tablecloths on the living room floor to taking over 1/2 of the room for Christmas. I like your layout, If you are staying that size, I'd stay with the tubular. The other tracks come in larger radii. I think trains look better on wider curves and am going to redo my radii next Christma. BUT on a small layout, I think the tradeoff for longer straights is worth thinking about. My layout started as a small tubular track a few lemax houses and 1 train. Here is is now. I owe it all to ballasted track (and an addictive personality, looking for a place to manifest itself)
Nice Christmas layout. That must take a while to set up. I usually set up 3 ovals under the tree (as much as I can squeeze in). Alan
it does, but each year it gets a little easier. I enjoy the setup part. Putting it away actually becomes even easier. Next year is going to be more challenging as I'm going to widen some of my radii. I won't get more floor space, but it will look a little nicer and I'll be able to relax a bit when the throttles get bumped. Especially the raised line.
I just went thru the same questions u did. I'm working on rebuilding my layout & Iv decided to do it right with Atlas's nickel track due to moisture problems. Tin track is cheap, easy to put together & take apart. Worse case u may have to get the pliers to staighten smthg out but overall u can't beat it for temporary layouts. My old layout was up for 10+ years & I want the new one to last even longer & get more play time out of it which is why im using the Atlas track. The down side is the magnetraction doesn't work as well on nickel track but I have no grades so that won't be an issue. Now im wrestling with the idea of a bi-level layout:2 large loops & a small industrial area on bottom with a city type area on top with 2 small loops. So many options, so little money.
I always liked K-lines Shadow Rail. Now that they don't have it any more I'm trying some Lionel Fastrack. It's alright but not real crazy about. So, now I'm on the fence weather to go with Atlas or Gargraves.................................. Here is pics of the Shadow Rail and Fastrack...............................
For small and rarely used layouts, I would use Lionel tinplate track. Sure, its an old and outdated design, but its extremely cheap (50 - 90 cents a piece). Granted, a track system such as fastrack would provide easier assembly/ use on carpeted floors and uneven ground, and it does look a lot more realistic, but it comes with a hefty price tag. All in all I would stick with the Lionel tubular track for the ease of assembly/ disassembly and the price.:tb-biggrin:
