Hi Guys,
I’m about to begin ballasting my HO scale layout set in the late 1950’s in New London, CT. I’ve been told that ALL spurs to industries were ballasted with cinders while the mainline was grey traprock. In the various books I have on the New Haven, I can’t tell what the spurs look like…most photos show trackage on the mainline and at stations.
First, were ALL spurs ballasted with cinders? Second, where do I begin with the cinders? Do I apply some traprock ballast off the mainline down the spur a few inches and then use all cinders to the end of the spur at the bumper? I’m just afraid that if I start with cinders exactly at each turnout off the mainline, it will look too “black and white” and consistent, if you know what I mean. I wonder if the spurs were originally ballasted the same as the mainline and then cinders were added later due to the small expense and availability?
What about my yard? Should it be ballasted with cinders or traprock?
Any and all help would be appreciated.
Mondo