S scale track

It is a bit of a conundrum choosing a track system in S gauge. I think it really comes down to personal preferences. If you like the look of Fastrack then there is the alternative that MTH provides, both are very similar but there are some drawbacks, the biggest one for me are suitable turnouts. Lionel build the 20 and 27 inch  radius versions. Manual ones are reasonable for price but the electric ones for me are a bit too expensive. I don't have any so can't pass comment on them. The one query regarding the 27" Lionel version I have is that the pictures show the diverging section being a full curve, is this a full curve moulded as a complete unit or? If it is a single unit what happens if you wish to turn it in for parallel tracks? 

Some time ago I did a pricing comparison for Lionel/MTH straight and curves and MTH came out cheaper per footage.

The other option to look at is American Models, they don't have the moulded in base but if this doesn't bother you then it is probably the better choice to the others. They do flex and fixed track and the turnouts are OK and lend themselves to probably achieve what you want.

The latest option for track is from Fox Valley Models if I remember correctly, they are looking to release a track system that will be suitable for what I think are your needs as well as the scale people, just waiting now for some more information and prices, unless I have missed something.

Gargraves make a track system which is more suited to AF running as long as you are OK with it being oversized etc.

Just my own thoughts above and I'm sure others will pitch in with their own views and preferences.

 

 

Look at Flex Track from MTH, American Models or Gargraves for lower cost. My personal preference would be the MTH Flex Track with the soon to be released Fox Valley turnouts. One caveat, MTH, Lionel and Fox Valley all use the same size (code) rail. Somebody on this forum showed how to mate the Lionel and MTH track with built in roadbed. It looks very easy and seamless.

Thanks, I had no idea MTH made flex track.

RRaddict2 posted:

Thanks, I had no idea MTH made flex track.

According to the shipping schedule, the Flex Track is cancelled.

Rusty

Ukaflyer posted:

The latest option for track is from Fox Valley Models if I remember correctly, they are looking to release a track system that will be suitable for what I think are your needs as well as the scale people, just waiting now for some more information and prices, unless I have missed something.

 

 

Here's Fox Valley Models prices and order blank:

Rusty

This dealer shows stock http://64.251.10.24/~worldofw/...age=results-new.html

Also, according to the MTH product locator MTH has stock.

The problem I see with both the Fastrack and the MTH track is the plastic snap-fit bits won't take a lot of connecting and disconnecting. I think this is bad for those of us who only do "temporary" layouts where the trackwork is changed a lot. For that, the old fashioned "Tinplate" track has no peers. It was engineered to be taken apart and put back together MANY times. It's also MUCH cheaper than the modern track systems!

For you guys wanting S scale track products don't overlook Tomalco Track located in Hendersonville NC. American made. Owner Larry Morton bought the company some years ago and is a knowledgable S Scale modeler with a large home layout here in the western NC mountains. I was talking with him today at the local Apple Valley HO club and he said this year has been his best yet in the business.  S is definitely 'alive & well'!

If I have a chance to visit his home again, I'll get some good photos to post here. He does the READING RR

http://www.tomalcotrack.net/Home_Page.html

 

He is unfamiliar with this Forum so if you contact him, mention me and perhaps he could become an advertiser...

And another one, that I would imagine is made in America, America S Gauge, but I can't find it anywhere except at Port Lines Hobbies. It's code 172, maybe intended to line up with original AF.

The cancellation lists the 6-Pack of Flex track.  They also have a 24-Pack of Flex track which isn't listed in that screen shot.  If you don't need 24 pieces Portlines has been selling in quantity 2, 6, 12, and 24.

Craig

Oman posted:

And another one, that I would imagine is made in America, America S Gauge, but I can't find it anywhere except at Port Lines Hobbies. It's code 172, maybe intended to line up with original AF.

American S Gauge ceased production several years ago amid the Sanda Kan debacle in China and doesn't appear to be in business anymore.

FlyerRich posted:

Oman posted:

And another one, that I would imagine is made in America, America S Gauge, but I can't find it anywhere except at Port Lines Hobbies. It's code 172, maybe intended to line up with original AF.

American S Gauge ceased production several years ago amid the Sanda Kan debacle in China and doesn't appear to be in business anymore.

Well, there you go, many small businesses are not good at keeping their web site current.