I have an interest in building a section of the Gilpin Tramway as part of a future layout. I have tried handlaying some track with some luck. Was interested to see if anyone else has done anything like this and might have some tips they could share.
Thanks,
Aaron
Whatexactlyareya wanting tips on?
Since you posted this in 'Track and Trestles," I assume you are asking advice on that subject.
First, it depends on the scale you intend to use. If you are planning on modeling 24" gauge prototypes in 1:20.3 (15mm=1’) scale, 24" gauge is 1.18" or 30mm. I have a 1:20 scale construction railroad that takes a little liberty by using 1.25" (32mm) gauge track. That gauge is what is used for 0-scale standard gauge models. In 1:20.3 scale, it equates to ~25.6" prototype gauge. Close enough for me, but some purists have chastised me for terming it “2’ gauge.” In fact, early railroads were frequently built to gauges other than 24", sometimes to get around laws specifically aimed at “24” gauge." Here in N. California, there were a couple of 25" or 26" gauge operations.
That choice of modeling gauge allows me to use a lot of off the shelf stuff, including 0-gauge mechanisms and wheels. I am not interested in hand laying track, so I purchase PECO SM32 track that is commonly used in the UK for 24" models in 16mm=1’ (1:19) scale. The rail is code 200, and the tie size and spacing provides a lighter look without sacrificing durability. Some of my PECO track has been out in the weather for over 5 years with no detrimental effects.
I have rebuilt several of the too small Bachmann box and flat cars to represent tool cars and other utility cars for my 1:20 scale 2’ gauge railroad. I also plan to get a couple of the IP Engineering critters such as the Lister Diesel and petrol units to power the construction operation. They are also 16mm=1’ scale, but I defy anyone to find that extra millimeter!
If you intend to model 24" gauge prototypes running on 45mm track, the correct scale ratio is 1:13.5 or 22.5mm=1’. Typically the very slightly incorrect scale of 1:13.7 or 7/8" (22.2mm)=1’ is used. There are a number of modelers working in this larger scale. I’m certain some will chime in here.
As Bart asked, what information are you looking for?
Happy RRing,
Jerry
At this point any tips are welcome.
One of the problems i am having when handlaying track is the dual guage for the crossing of the Gilpin with the C&S. When laying the 3rd rail I am having trouble driving the spikes in that tight of a space. Is there a good way to do this without damaging the other rail?
Jerry, Do you have any pictures of modelling 2 foot with 32mm track since this is the way I’m going? Also are there any dealers here in the USA that sell Peco 32mm track that I could use for the outdoor sections?
Thanks,
Aaron
What sort of tools are you using for track laying? When im spiking the guard rails for a turnout in place i use a pair of needle nose pliers to get em started, and a nail set to drive them home. What are you using for spikes?
Aaron: This information is from 2001 when I last bought PECO track. The SM32 track was imported to the U.S. by E-R MODEL IMPORTERS. 1000 South Main Street. Newark. NY 14513. Tel.: 315-331-0288. Fax.: 315-331-4090. E.mail: [email protected] E-R Importers didn’t sell to individuals, so I got my PECO track from John Weigel at The Peterboro Railroad. John is very knowledgeable and really good to deal with. His email address (in 2001) was: [email protected] He is still an active model railroader and shows up on numerous forums. Here is the roll out of my 2’ gauge Binnie Engineering tippers:
(http://freightsheds.largescalecentral.com/users/jerryb/_forumfiles/BinnieTippingTest.jpg)
(http://freightsheds.largescalecentral.com/users/jerryb/_forumfiles/BinnieRollOut_1.jpg)
They are equipped with Sierra Valley Enterprises’ 32mm gauge wheels. Gives a lot more weight than the plastic wheels that come with the Binnie cars. They are sitting on the PECO SM32 track. And here is the IP Engineering Lister Diesel that will hopefully pull them:
(http://freightsheds.largescalecentral.com/users/jerryb/_forumfiles/IPEngineeringListerDiesel.jpg)
Happy RRing, Jerry
Bart, I have been using needlenose pliers but was having trouble getting them drove in, will have to try your advice. Have been using Micro Engineering large spikes but the cost is a little high, is there another option, maybe large staples cut apart?
Jerry, Thanks for the info and the pictures, those models look great!
Thanks,
Aaron
Two other sources of spikes are:
Switchcrafters http://www.switchcrafters.com/ and
Old Pullman http://www.oldpullmanmodelrailroads.com/
Bob C.
