I had to take my dremel and gap my code 100 Atlas flex track (one rail) where two sections come together and, naturally, it is in a very awkward spot where I couldn’t see the spot very well. I cut the gap a little too big, probably about 1/8th inch or maybe a hair bigger. What is a good way I can add some type filler to close the gap up some? I really, really don’t want to have to rip out this section of track. Also, the section in question is on a 22 in. r. curve. Naturally.
Jarrell
Jarrell,
If the two rails are still connected electrically, you could always just fill in the gap with a small piece of 1/8" thick styrene and a little glue, trim off the excess with an X-acto knife, and paint it.
Tom
Jarrell, if it is a frog rail, you will have to solder a feeder if it isolates a long segment of that frog rail. If a stock rail, you probably don’t have to do anything electrically, but it depends on how the rail was originally fed. If it was between turnouts, it might need a feeder. Test both new rail sections for voltage.
Otherwise, I think Tom is correct. I have simply carved bits of unused tie and glued them into position. Once the glue is set, carve or sand it carefully until the tire surface meets those of the two adjacent rail ends and the same for the flange. You could also solder a tiny piece of rail into that gap. Means more filing and shaping, for sure if you do that, but it will be more solid.
Thanks guys. Styrene it is then! This section is still electrically connected and isn’t where a turnout is, just a hard place to reach… but that’s purty’near always the case isn’t it. If you’ll remember, about 2 months ago I decided to tear out about a third of my layout, benchwork and all, and redo it. Man, I’ve had more headaches with this than I did the entire rest of the trackwork!!
Well enough bellyaching, let’s see… wheres that piece of styrene and a new #11 blade?
Jarrell
Jarrell’
In addition to the repair, check the guage at the cut. Where this is on a 22 radius you could have the rails spring slightly outward and out of gauge. I know that your track is caulked/ glue on foam so any addition of spikes won’t work. If you do ever experience any problems, then ripping up the section may be nec.
I’ll be sure to check the guage. If it is out I’ll try to repair it but if I can’t bring it back into proper gauge it’ll have to come out.
Thanks for the reminder.
Jarrell