What isTrack code?, like code 83…
and why does it differ from main-line, to sidings, to spurs…, [%-)]
Thanks
it’s the height of the rail…the higher the number the higher the rail… I use code 100 in ho the highest rail…the next is code 83, then code 70 and code 55…the real railroads do this too but use weights instead… the rail used is determined by how heavy the cars will be that will roll over it…
Track code is actually a measurement. It refers to the height of the rail in 1/100" of an inch. Therfore, code 83 maens rails that are .083" high. Code 100 has rails .100" high, and so on.
If you run trains from manufacturers like Rivarossi with the big flanges, you’ll want code 100. Any less and your trains will go “bump bump bump bump”, and you probably don’t want that.
ok… thanks!
I run Athearn, Can they manuver on my sidings if I run code 83 or 70? and my spurs, at 55? or does it matter? Im wanting my railroad to be as realistic as possible! so that i can do friedht operations and stuff!
i figured it was either height or width or some thing like that… thanks again guys!
I’ve got lots of Athearn loco’s and box cars, they all run great on my layout where everything is code 83, You won’t have any problems with code 83.
Good deal!! Im thinking of geting some more locos in February! at a local train show! im thinking of KATO, and Proto 2000, and some genisis if I can find them cheap at this show! I gotta start savin money! I’m Gonna try and walk in the door with no less than $500, but I’m hoping I can save more than that lol! and then blow it all on Choo Choo’s lol [dinner] I’m hungry to get started lol… I just think that smiley is hilarious!
Isn’t Code 100 the type of track/rail that doesn’t have roadbed?? (not an expert on this)
…
Real rail is measured in lbs/yd. The railroads used lighter rail on spurs and other secondary trackage because it was cheaper. This site http://www.bdsonline.net/brunelmodels/ME/RailFacts.htm has tables correlating model rail to the prototype. On the model in HO you might use code 83 on the mainline, code 70 in the yards, and code 55 on the weed grown spur.
Enjoy
Paul
Wow This is great Info… Thanks again!