Just picked up some MicroEngineering Code 83 track off an online auction site, and when comparing it to ME’s code 70 that I have already started to install on my layout, the two seem to differ in the tie spacing, tie height, flexibility (neither is weathered rail), and tie size. I do plan on an area where a “mainline” (#83) has a “siding” (#70), so the both rail codes and tracks will be in the foreground on part of my railroad.
The problem is that I’m not sure if I in fact purchased ME #83, or if there could be a more comparible track that would look better beside either of the two rail code#'s I currently possess. Has anyone else run into this kind of trouble with ME track?
There are no part numbers or writing on the code 83. It’s kind of weird - both codes look the same, although the #83 is scaled about 15% bigger in every way you can imagine (tie spacing, tie height, simulated spike heads…). The colour of the ties are an exact match, and both codes have the same half-drilled pilot holes on the bottom side of the ties for nailing down the centerline of the track.
The other thing is that the flexibility difference; the second-hand #83 is workable like Atlas flextrack is, and the #70 is stiffer than Peco. I purchased the #70 at a hobby shop, so that one is ME for sure…
Thanks for everybody’s help so far - I really appreciate it.
There are no part numbers or writing on the code 83. It’s kind of weird - both codes look the same, although the #83 is scaled about 15% bigger in every way you can imagine (tie spacing, tie height, simulated spike heads…). The colour of the ties are an exact match, and both codes have the same half-drilled pilot holes on the bottom side of the ties for nailing down the centerline of the track.
The other thing is that the flexibility difference; the second-hand #83 is workable like Atlas flextrack is, and the #70 is stiffer than Peco. I purchased the #70 at a hobby shop, so that one is ME for sure…
Thanks for everybody’s help so far - I really appreciate it.
ME track can usually be distinguished by having very small spike heads to hold the rail on. I have code 70, 83 and 55 and the tie thickness is all the same AFIK. I just have to shim up the rail height.
Model Power, Walthers (by Shinohara), Rail Craft, Peco and Atlas all make code 83, HO flex track. There may be more.
In the work shop I have - ME code 70, Atlas code 83, Shinohara code 83. All 3 have molded in markins on the back somewhere along its length with the manufaturer identification. Atlas and Shinoharra have the rail size also.
I found a few pieces that look slightly similar, but the tie thickness and spacing is slightly off. These ones have Atlas markings and seems that maybe the unidentifiable track could be a batch os Atlas too - even they are still have no markings.
Anyways, spent about $200 on more ME track at the hobby shop. At least I know what I’m buying there. Guess that mystery track will go back on auction…