I have two questions about N scale track. I am starting a new 2x4 layout project and was wondering if Atlas Code 55 track turnouts will work for this small of a layout? Or should I stick with the standard Code 80?
Also how do you paint the track/ties? Is it just the very surface of the rails you need to wipe clean so there will be conductivity for the locomotive wheels? I haven’t painted track before.
Jake,
You should be able to use code 55 or code 80 on a 2x4 without any trouble, as these refer to the height of the rails. The radius of the curves on your layout is what’s limited by the size of your layout. A 2x4 would limit you to a 12" maximum radius, which in N scale will be sufficient for four-axled diesels, shorter steam locomotives and 40’-50’ boxcars - nothing much longer than that.
With regards to painting the track, Floquil makes a line of ‘paint pens’ which come in a set of track colours (amongst others). I’ve been using these on my layout and the results are excellent. And yes, it’s only the tops of the rails you need to wipe off to maintain conductivity.
Hope this helps,
tbdanny
The issue you are probably thinking of is turnout size (number), and it’s a reasonable question. The smallest Atlas Code 55 turnout is a number 5, so they don’t diverge as sharply as some of the Code 80 turnouts (Or PECO Code 55). This may limit what you can include in a small space, so it’s worth checking your desired track plan to see if it can be accomplished with number 5s as the smallest turnout.
Atlas C55 #5 turnouts are also made overly long to match up with the length of straight sectional track, but you can trim them on all ends. This will help fit more into a small space if you choose Atlas C55.
Best of luck.
Byron
A 12" curve would put half the track on each side or the board hanging off into space. 11R curve will just fit inside the layout. You’re looking more at 10.5R track which I don’t think anyone makes in sectional track. The one decent thing with using smaller 40-50 foot cars and 4 axle locos is smaller radii curve as mentioned and the #4/#5 turnouts of code 80/code 55 respectively should have no problems. I would still consider going bigger, unless you are just trying to build a small layout to test new and/or repaired locos. Or a coffee table.