Fastrack Insulating Blocks in a Curve | O Gauge Railroading On Line Forum

mokemikeOGR Forum Member

I have straight insulating sections and I understand the principle of removing a wire rather than cutting a rail. However, in a the center of a curved section I need to create a break in the center rail. With tubular track or Gargraves, I simply remove the center pin and install an insulating pin between the two curved sections. I read on the Forum when using Fastrack that I can use a Dremel tool and cut the center rail and if needed later connect the rail from under the track bed to restore it to a normal section of track. Is this the only way to create a cut in the center rail in a curve? Can the two center pins that connect to each other, in the curved rail, be removed and then insulated?

I think Fastrack is a very good product. Making a switch ladder with multiple switches doesn't require all the wiring that you would use for Gargraves or tubular track and I still get a superior DCS signal.

Thanks, mokemike

7/5/165:29 PM

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Mikado 4501OGR Forum Member

There's always the chance that the rails will touch each other even if you remove the pins. So, yes, it's pretty much the best way to insulate your track yourself without buying more pre insulated track sections. Many use a Dremel to shave off a bit from each end to prevent that.

7/5/166:22 PM

Train NutOGR Forum Member

I've used a dremel with a large wheel to make a cut. (Small wheel you can't make a good vertical cut because of the tool being in the way)

Or you can remove the center pin and file the rail down a bit creating a gap.

7/5/166:56 PM

ReadingFanOGR Forum Member

A 1 3/8" FasTrack Straight Section w/Roadbed (6-12073) can insulate a center rail, if that small section can be placed in that curve.

7/5/169:14 PM

Stephen GOGR Forum Member DIGITAL SUBSCRIBER

But where to connect the wires to get the locomotive to stop.

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