@B Smith posted:It is not true to say that "just like everything else in this hobby, there is no standardization." The NMRA has established standards for all the commonly recognized modeling scales that use 2-rail track, including both traditional 1:48 O-gauge and proto 48. O-scale 2-rail modelers can purchase a very nice steel NMRA standards gauge that checks for for basic track gauge (O gauge), flange way clearances, wheel flange depth, and so on. I am not very familiar with 3-rail systems, but apparently there is no equivalent standards gauge available. In my opinion, the existence of NMRA standards and the improved appearance of 2-rail track are good arguments for modeling in 2-rail O-scale/O-gauge.
Thank you for your reply, I could not agree with you more! I have edited my opening post which was ambiguous.
My original idea when leaving HO for O was to do 2R (unfortunately?) I got sidetracked and went 3R, "well sorta". At this point I have decided that my freight cars (mostly Weaver/CMP and Intermountain) will be converted to 2R if they are not already (I have bought both). On the other hand my K-Line Passenger cars will remain 3R. Locos (mostly 3R) will not be converted. At this point I am seriously considering having one Mainline 2R and one 3R. This track would be for the 3R section. The 2R section will be Code 145.
