Track manufacturers

I definitely recommend Atla Ross # 1 and Gargrave's, Ross is very expensive, but ross guarantees their switches to run on any engine, if fact if you have any issue tell them and they'll setup the switch for the locomotives you're going to run on ross switches!

Alan

I have two layouts with Atlas O track and switches, which I recommend. The older layout has been in operation with the original track and switches since 1999, the newer one since 2014 with no significant problems. To me, Atlas O looks the most realistic and it is the only O gauge track with solid (flat-topped) nickel-silver rails whose cross-section is closest to prototype. It's expensive but, worth it in my opinion. The other brands are tubular. Wheels and pickup-rollers have a larger contact area with the solid flat-topped rails.

MELGAR

It depends on what you are planning to run. If you are running any prewar tinplate, you won't be happy with Ross or Fastrack switches; I have tried them both, and they don't play well with the deep-flanged wheels that many prewar trains have. Since I run both prewar and modern trains, I need switches that are compatible with all eras. After a lot of research and help from fellow forum members, I settled on the K-Line Super Snap switches. They are no longer being produced, but you can still find them at shows and on ebay. They work very well, and they have a low-profile switch motor that has a very small footprint--much smaller than the old Lionel switch motors.

B.B.   I can suggest a track that is available but has not been made since 1941. It is solid steel and has appreciated over the years and is still available. It is called Lionel T RAIL and is  072 only with 16 sections of curved making a circle. It sometimes is on "The Bay" but can be purchased usually at York shows and some individuals. It has side plates that are drilled and nuts and bolts to assemble. The straights and curves are about 11 inches long and switches were made for it. The beauty of the sound and the look of real railroad tracks back in the day can not be duplicated in my opinion. The curves can be made wider by attaching short cut sections of straight track and it is somewhat of a challenge to fit together but is easy to maintain and, as I said, holds and appreciates. I have pictures of my layout and have used this track since about 1978.  Have a great day.

About a year ago I changed up my layout. I had an opportunity with some extra cash on hand and wanted to do a layout with all Atlas O track and switches. The previous layout was all Ross track/ switches. And the layout before that was Fastrack (just way to loud). As others have said, I like the look of Atlas O the best. I have OCD and little things bothered me with hollow rail track, especially the joints. Buts thats me and my issue.
   Ross Switches are the best hands down. This layout I wanted to try the Atlas switches. So far I have had no problem whatsoever with the Atlas Switches.
    You cant go wrong with all Atlas or Atlas track / Ross Switches.

My layout is all Atlas track and switches.  Most of my switches are the 1st  and second edition.  People bad mouth Atlas switches they are talking about the 1st edition. Buy your switches new and you shouldn't have any problems.

Jan

Great information, Robert I am interested in learning more about this T rail and would like to see pictures of your layout. I have been lookin at it on the web.
bb

@Jan posted:

My layout is all Atlas track and switches.  Most of my switches are the 1st  and second edition.  People bad mouth Atlas switches they are talking about the 1st edition. Buy your switches new and you shouldn't have any problems.

Jan

What Jan said.