Looking for Sectional Ballasted S-Scale track

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

I’m looking to replace my original American Flyer S scale track with sectional ballasted track similar to what Lionel sells. I found “S-trax” sectional ballasted track at showcaseline.com

They sell a starter set for $74.95. Is this company reputable? Are there other manufacturers that sell a similar product?

Thanks in advance

2

Frank,

That track is made by S Helper Services. I have seen their ads in CTT. I have never dealt with them, but I’ve never heard anything negative about them.

3

I use the SHS track for my holiday layouts. It works great and looks great. The sectional track is available in three radii, the 20’ (or 19") depending on how you measure is a direct replacement in track plans for the original AF track. One key difference is the turnouts are not selective power routing as the original AF turnouts are when in the “2 train” position. The SHS turnouts do have a selector switch that turns on or off the power through the turnout but it is not route selective. Their uncouplers and operating car sections work well also. They do not make a crossover, so you should get some adapter pins to mate between the SHS and AF track. I run original AF, SHS, AM and even the new Big Boy on it with no problems.

4

“…crossover…” Crossing?

5

Yes, sorry about the semantics. One additional point, many track plans with interconnected loops ( 2 pairs of turnouts) require a 7 1/2" ( or 2 1/2") straight section. SHS only makes 5, 10 & 15" sections so these must be home made.

Tom

6

Thanks. Thats what I wanted to hear. Did you buy your track from showcaseline.com?

7

I purchased mine from a dealer who sells it at the train shows here in SoCal. Another thought, I have no grades on my holiday layouts do I do not know if there are any hidden issues. If you run all newer engines with traction tires all should be fine. If you run older Gilbert engines with no traction tires you may notice a slight reduction in traction unless you keep the track completely clean, then no difference.

Tom

8

thanks…

9

I also use S-Helper track, which I have purchased directly off of their website. It uses code 155 rail, which is just about the minimum height that you can get away with using the flanges on the AF OEM wheels. So I’ve gone the additional step and replaced the wheelsets on most of my rolling stock with S-Helper wheelsets. They have a smaller flange profile.

10

Wasn’t there a rumor a couple of months back, that Lionel was planning on introducing a line of S sectional track, similar to FasTrack?

11

It’s listed on page 139 of the 2011 Signature catalog. When it might turn up on dealer shelves… who knows.

Pete