starting over from scratch. I'm done with fastrack. what is the best track for o gauge?
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Depends who you ask. I like Gargraves track and switches. I use Ross switches if Gargraves does not make one that fits my needs.
Atlas.
A 2nd with Atlas.
It really depends on what YOU want as Atlas & Gargraves/Ross are both excellent choices with good features.
Ross switches and Gargraves track. Although I'm using all Ross because I like the spikes on the ties for Ross products. I have Gargraves flex track though because Ross doesn't make flex track. I find both are easy to use.
I used to want to use Atlas because I thought I liked the ties better but I'm digging the ties on Ross/Gargraves more and more as time goes by.
Lastly, the variety of switches available from Ross really make it easier to fit O scale in a set area. This is important if you're trying to get more track or more realistic operating into a smaller space.
Gargraves and Ross, most will say this, a few others have their pros and cons, but after having just finished going through what your asking about, I would say I made the right call with Gargraves and Ross. I would however offer that if you are going to use a lot of post war accessories don't be afraid to use the lionel tube track RCS and UCS sections instead of the the Gargraves 108's etc. They fit the accessories perfectly and because of the customizable track you are using can be custom fit right into the space you want them, and it looks good.
@eye311 posted:starting over from scratch. I'm done with fastrack...
At least you can recoup the cost by auctioning online. It frequently goes for MSRP or more even before shipping.
yes I do have to get on that, I have about 20 O-36 switches alone to move. and a crap ton of o-60 curves and straights, operating tracks, blocks etc...etc...
All my issues with fastrack were the O-60 switches... couldn't keep them from derailing constantly the O-36 are bulletproof though.
Atlas for sure.
.
What is best is always one of those questions that can be so open ended. I’ll spare you the well what do you mean by “best”.
At last years fall York, I purchased samples of the following types of track
Atlas
Gargraves
Ross
MTH scale Track
and for good measure some Menards.
IMO, the winner, surprising me, was ROSS.
Ross and Gargraves look very close but Ross has theses little spike looking things, plus real wood. It just looks amazing to my eyes.
I think it’s worth it to buy a little of each and see which works best for you!
The question is kinda like Chevy vs. Ford - it’s a matter of preference. I have a 16x40 layout and it was all Fastrack. I tore it out due to the noise and rebuilt it with Atlas. I found a couple big lots (NOS and used) at York and other shows (about 1/2 of what I needed). I’ve been very happy with it including its ease of assembly and electrical capability. If I have one complaint it’s that the switches at times can be hard to find in some sizes. (Don’t buy used older Atlas switches - a forum search will document the problems with them.) Other than that, I have nothing but good things to say about Atlas.
One other minor point: Atlas doesn’t make O60, but rather their similar size is O63.
Ross, unless your plan is like mine, and calls for O36 switches. Then you would have to use Atlas, and you're at the mercy of their inventory cycles!
The size of your layout and the loops that you want, if any, and connections to other track would be your starting point. I decided the layout size and switches, etc. Later, I removed some switches. I decided to go with the Lionel t Rail track that dates from 1935-1941. It is solid rails and 072. You can adjust by adding small straight sections Cuts) in the curves . I have had it now for probably 35 years and the value has gone way up. Lionel made this track for their larger engines and called the the 072 Line up in the 1940 catalog. I have added TMCC and now Legacy and it works like a charm. I have sold a lot at York and set up by the front doors in the RED HALL. I will be happy to talk to you and show the track to you. It has been called "The best Track Ever !" Go after what you think is the best. It is a fun hobby with the best of people.
@peter allen 072518 posted:Ross and Gargraves look very close but Ross has theses little spike looking things, plus real wood. It just looks amazing to my eyes.I think it’s worth it to buy a little of each and see which works best for you!
Gargraves has real wood, you just have to buy that style of track. I used Gargraves flex and Ross switches and some Ross sectional track.
Gargraves track and Ross switches.
