Okay, I need to buy track, and I need to know, should i buy flex track or snap track (code 100)? Any opinions?
If it helps, this is what I do.
I use flex track every where I can. Keeping the rail that can move to the inside of the turn. Then if I do not want to build a turn out of flex track, then I use 22" snap track, and number 6 switches.
it is not the best way to do it, but it makes trains run well for me
Reeves
I used the Atlas RTS program to disign my layout, so there were places where sectional track was convenient if I needed a 9-inch straight or curved section. For everything else, I use flex track. It eliminates a lot of unnecessary rail joints, and allows you to adjust things that quarter-inch when the reality of track doesn’t match the “perfection” of the plan.
I used snap track exclusively for my first layout. It worked very well, but new larger engines always found places to help me to learn how to lay it better. Invariably, it was the joints that were slightly off, and then it was almost always in vertical alignment…there was a slight change of grade from piece-to-piece. It is not so problematic on a long straight, but on a curve, it can make the difference between a derailment and smooth running.
So, as Mr. B says, reducing the numbers of joins reduces this problem, and also reduces the connectivity problems that aging joins tend to allow over time. Fewer joins means fewer problems. Period.
I use all flex except for specialty pieces like turnouts or crossings. Since expansion isnt a problem in my house I solder all the joints and the result is very smooth track. Heres a little tip about flextrack: If you are making a curve most likely it will be longer than a piece of flex. If this is the case solder 2 or 3 pieces together beforehand effectively making a 6 or 9 foot long piece of track. You can then use this big piece to lay the curve all at once, this way you can get a smooth radius for the whole length and you wont have to struggle to make smooth joints on curved track.
Using flex allows you to lay curves with appropriate transitions to tangents (makes for somewhat better tracking and FAR better appearance.) You can also use whatever radius you feel appropriate, not just those produced by the sectional track manufacturer.
The bottom line is, for more flexible layout design, use flexible track (pun intended.)
Chuck (all flex, with handlaid specialwork)
Thanks all for your input! SInce it’s a little cheaper and most likely better, I will use Flex on the majority of my layout, i.e. straights and minor curves (as opposed to long turns)