Other than screwing track to the layout does anyone use any alternative methods? I am thinking of using plastic coated wire ties looped over the track ties (tubular track), drilled through the decking and twisted below. Does anyone use the metal clips to hold the track together? Are some tracks better at staying put, and together than others?
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I used nothing but TightBond glue. First we glued all the VinylBed down, then glued & screwed the Atlas O track to the VinylBed. After a few days, I removed all the screws and reused them to glue & screw more Atlas track down. I had always heard that the screws would transmit noise to the wood sub-base. Thus our layout is relatively quiet, as all one hears is the sound of the trains, with no "drumming" from the layout itself.
I used Liquid Nail once. Would not again: too hard to pull up.. When I put in Atlas I screwed it down.
I have seen small zip ties used. It takes two zip ties per section of track. One zip tie goes down through the track and the 2nd is used to tighten the first under the plywood. Hard to describe but it works for some.
Other than screwing track to the layout does anyone use any alternative methods? I am thinking of using plastic coated wire ties looped over the track ties (tubular track), drilled through the decking and twisted below. Does anyone use the metal clips to hold the track together? Are some tracks better at staying put, and together than others?
Bob,
If you are using 027 track then use the track clips as well as wire wraps or zip ties.
From experience 027 track pulls apart easy even with tight track pin connections. Use track clips with 027 track even if it is screwed in with screws, 027 has a tendency for the track to wiggle(side to side movement) more then any other track I have used. Try using two screws per track section with 027 and it should stay where you put it very well.
Lee Fritz
Other than screwing track to the layout does anyone use any alternative methods? I am thinking of using plastic coated wire ties looped over the track ties (tubular track), drilled through the decking and twisted below. Does anyone use the metal clips to hold the track together? Are some tracks better at staying put, and together than others?
Glad you asked!
I am an avid user and advocate of Woodland Scenic White Foam Glue!
I used it for almost everything especially track!
It is strong enough to hold the track firm, yet will remain pliable enough so that if you make a mistake and need to remove something, you can...and it is very forgiving.
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