new n-scale layout

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I am starting a new n-scale layout. it is basically a 3 foot x 8 foot rectangle with room for expansion. I have used atlas products in the past with good results. I am wondering this time, if I should use sectional track, so you hear the click-clack, or use 3 foot flex track so there are fewer joints, and possible smoother running. Does anyone have an opinion? I am going to be using digitrax dcc, as my power source.

2

Using sectional track won’t result in a satisfactory “click clack”

3

I’m really starting to wonder about Atlas sectional track and turnouts. About ten years ago I built a small N scale layout on a hollow door. I think it has about eight remote Atlas turnouts. The layout has been in storage for about eight years, and recently put it back in service. It was made with all sectional Atlas track. For whatever reason, EVERY turnout has developed a dead section internally, and won’t pass current. One by one, every one developed the exact same problem. …they all now have jumper wires soldered across them so the locos will get through them. I just didn’t want to pull all of them out to fix them from the underside. Also, for whatever reason, some of the sections have become “bowed” (?) and the locos will just begin to sit there and SPIN. I have begun to sand down these sections to make them level again, and it’s getting better. I’ve got Kato six-axle diesels slipping on straights with about twelve cars. I don’t think I’ll be buying anymore Atlas track! And mine is the old USA-MADE stuff!! I’m about ready to try Botchmann EZ-Track…

4

You’ll likely experience problems over time with that, too, especially with the turnouts. If you want to use click-track, KATO Unitrack is a more-reliable choice.

5

Fewer joints = more reliability

6

If I was going to use sectional track I would use Kato’s UniTrack since its bullet proof with excellent locking which gives solid rail joints unlike normal sectional track…

I’ve used it and would again in a heart beat if I was to return to N.

7

Some of the older HO Atlas turnouts have the same problem. I belong to a modular club that uses all Atlas track, and I’ve noticed that the older design turnouts with visible rivets are developing problems with the point rails. The one module has two turnouts where the points/closure rails are unpowered and need jumpers.

S&S

8

I used both, on my N-Scale layout. Any part that has long section that are the same, I use flex track. Going into those curved sections I use sectional track to make sure the transition is correct.

I also use sectional where I need to get the correct curve for a run around section, industrial or yard switching. So use both. Any one who tells you to use only sectional or only flex is way off the mark.

I also use a Digitrax system, though it makes no difference what DCC you use.

9

Thanks for the reply. What do you think of the MRC prodigy system. I have acquired info on both that and digitrax. They both sound good But I am still leaning towards the digitrax system.

10

I’ve been using a Digitrax Zephyr for years and have yet to have a problem with it.

11

Our 4x8 N scale pike is all Kato unitrack. It runs flawlessly using NCE DCC control. I scrapped an all Atlas version due to turnout failures; junk IMHO.
Dan