they have a ballast spreader.Does it work well and is it easy to use on all track codes? thanks
I got a package deal that also included several types of track gages and curve layout tool. These were all pretty handy, but the ballast speader which I never could get to work as fast or well as a spoon and brush. I would not recommend buying it unless it was included in a package deal like min was.
If you mean that round MLR Ballast spreading tool - forget it. I also have one and it’s more of a pain to try and use that over simply spooning the ballast over the ties and using a soft bru***o clean the edges before applying whatever glue mixture you are using to fasten it. Maybe it would work better on Code 100 track or something.
–Randy
At walmart, in the pharmacy, they sell a little hand vibrator called a “bug” for a couple bucks. After spreading on the ballast with a spoon, touch the vibrator to the track and most of the rocks on the ties vibrate off. If it vibrates too much, which it does sometimes, just used your hand as an insulator. Cuts the brushing time down to almost nil, and also packs the ballast so it don’t shrink when you put on the wet glue like sometimes happens. Fred
i havent tried this but you might consider using a hummingbird flosser. it doesnt viabrate a lot just a little.
I saw that ballast spreader and was thinking about it. Then I decided I could probably use a small PVC pipe for the same thing…then I decided a spoon worked well enough.
I was wondering about it though. Glad to hear I made a good choice not to get it. I spend enough money with Micro Mark anyway because they have so many cool toys [8D]
Great idea! I’m going to have to try that out.