HO track?

I am currently a Free-Mo HO enthusiast. I said this because you mentioned modules. If that is your direction, the track to use is specified. That said, I currently use Atlas Code 83 Flex track on my Free-Mo modules. Personally I chose that sometime back on a layout and it suits me from an operation and anesthetic standpoint. The track and there commercial switches work fine if you pay attention to the many hints users of that track can give you. Nice realistic look but not Proto. Once you do scenery/weathering it looks great and a lot better than code 100. Gaining experience you can experiment with code 70 for sidings and that will lead you to Micro Engineering Products. Currently there are some shortage issues Atlas Code 83 but it is available and Atlas seems to be catching up with requirements.

Hope this helps.

Wayne

That helps, but my modules

That helps, but my modules are purely from the standpoint that living in an apartment, it's easier to build and detail in sections rather than an entire layout at one time, and it'll be easier to move at some point in time.  The Free-mo aspect really isn't something I'm concerned with.

Used both Atlas and Micro

Atlas ME and CVT

TJ,

I too have used Atlas Code 83 flex and Micro Engineering (ME), also ME rail with Central Valley Model Works tie strips (CVT).

And let me preface further comments by saying that the top criterion is trackwork reliability:  zero defects and zero derailments is an absolute goal.

I have found that Atlas looks good enough for me, but I'm not a photographer.  And that's where, I think, the detail in Micro Engineering or with CVT is overkill for me.  Also, I used ME un-weathered rail, which is more flexible than the weathered rail, and can be soldered to without major surface prep.  I weather rail later with Floquil pens or painting with a small brush.

I originally picked CVT tie strips and ME rail because of the cost factor, and the fact that I could mix Code 83, 70, or even 55 in my trackwork.  I had bought 99' bundles of Code 83 and 70, and bags of 50 of 12" sections of CVT tie strip.  Then, since I have a history of hand-constructed switches, I built my own using CVT switch ties, a-la Joe Fugate's method, and using PC board ties.  Again, this was the cheapest path.

Now, if I am going to do new trackwork, and cost is the biggest factor, I would do the same.

If speed of track-laying is the top of the list, I would use Atlas Code 83 for main line and sidings, Peco USA style switches, and then CVT branchline tie strips and Code 70 ME rail for yards and spurs, especially where it can be seen easily.  The difference is observable, even to these old eyes, and not just the camera.

Again, to emphasize, reliability is tops.  Atlas works well, and the Peco switches are great.  Hand-laid is the best, but takes time.

Peco 83 has surpassed Micro Engineering

In my opinion, in regards to code 83 track, Peco has surpassed Micro Engineering for those wanting the most prototypical ready made track.

Peco and Micro Engineering flex track look almost indentical but Peco flex track is a breeze to install. Also Peco's turnouts are much sturdier and more reliable than Micro Engineering. Their design keeps the point rails tighter to the stock rails. Of course the trade off is Peco turnouts are more expensive than ME.

To answer your question, Code 83 Atlas is a happy medium. Least expensive and easy to work with while still looking pretty good.

If you want the best looking track that is also easy to install and has bullet proof reliability, go with Peco.

I don't know that I'm ready

I don't know that I'm ready (or willing) to hand lay my own track and build my own switches.  Sounds daunting to say the least.  I'm not very good with a soldering iron beyond tinning two wires together.  I am a photographer, but I think I can be happy with Atlas or ME track as long as the rest of the modeling is done well.

Since you are building sections,

Why not build a 2x4 section either as a start on your layout, or as a "chain saw" section to be disposed of after the experiment is done.  Use some Atlas, some Peco, and some Micro Engineering track to see which you prefer for ease of installation and looks.  If you are not going to build your switches using jigs like Fastracs or Joes method with CV ties strips, Atlas can be made reliable, but take work.  Peco are more reliable, and closer to NMRA specs, but are expensive.  Again, build something for test purposes and see what you like or dislike.

Buying pieces just to see

Buying pieces just to see which ones I like and then having some I'll never use because I don't like them sounds expensive.  What's wrong with the Atlas switches that makes them less favorable?

Has anyone experienced any difference in rail maintenance?

While room environment makes a difference, has anyone experienced one brand of track being more difficult than another?  Seems like some NS rail is more copper colored than others.

Different

"then having some I'll never use" ?

 That' a a big part of being a model railroader, we all have more stuff we don't use than stuff we do use, we are  what keeps ebay in business. I'd just start with Atlas code 83 if it is in stock and see how you like it, I have some code 83 and a couple of their  code 83 switches am happy with them. I have some of the similar Atlas code 55 track on my N layout and it works fine. I hear Atlas has new stock on the way so hopefully we can buy some soon  ( I need more switches for a new staging loop). If Atlas is out of stock and you are in a hurry buy Micro Engineering and you'll also be happy, I just find Atlas a bit easier to work with because it's more flexible.Micro Engineering does have some of the best customer service in the business if that matters to you. If you want to spend more buy Peco and you'll again be happy.Bottom line buying track makes one happy :> ) .....DaveBranum 

And who do you buy from?

And who do you buy from?  LHS?  Online?

Cherry Creek Hobbies

"who do you buy from? LHS? Online?"

I don't have a local shop so I usually order from MB Klein....DaveB

Have you ever wondered...

Sources

TJ,

If you look at the top of the screen - right:  click on advertisers, there's quite a selection of MRH advertisers who handle track products.  They pay the bills so we get a free magazine.   I have used Dallas Model Works for rail, switches, and track..  great prices, great service.

I have also ordered direct from a manufacturer, Central Valley Model Works, as they are a short distance up the California coast from me.  I don't believe they advertise in MRH, but are certainly mentioned often.

I actually just placed an

I actually just placed an order with Dallas Model Works for some weathering powders.  When it comes to R/C Airplanes needs, I know who to go to from years of experience in that hobby, but trains are a fairly new venture for me and I haven't determined who the 'go to' guys are yet for price, customer service, etc.  I suppose anyone advertising here is gonna be pretty good to deal with.

Best online train sources

+1 for PECO Code 83

Agree with the Prof

Peco code 83 is my choice too, and the rail is a perfect fit for Fastracks ME C83 jigs too.

cheers,

Steve

Walthers/Shinohara Flex

Take a look at their Code 83. It is attractive, easy to lay (especially if you want the option of spikes as well as glue or nail), and they have a very wide selection of curved and other special turnouts that work very well. It is a relatively expensive line but of high quality. A seemingly insignificant but important plus is that their joiners are small and fit very tightly.

Dante

I took a look on the net at

I took a look on the net at the Peco code 83 and it looks good.

Does anyone if this track could represent track used on mainlines back in 1974 in Eastern Canada?

Though I model 1956, I have started a collection for the era of 1974 and may make a large diorama to display them on. I'm hoping Peco code 83 will do the trick and perhaps their turnouts.

I think it should be obvious by now that track will be a

personal choice.  Depending on individual requirements, I've seen posts recommending every brand of track and switch available on the market.  Peco may be less expensive in Australia, but in the U.S. it is the most expensive track on the market, particularly their switches.  You may not like the idea of trying different brands of track to see what you like, but I don't see an alternative.  You might try one brand and see if you like it, and not need to try anything different if it satisfies you.  I just would not make a big investment in a lot of track until you make sure that the one you selected is suitable for you.

I don't know that I'm ready......

TJ,

I was the same but when I was in N scale, I started getting more and more issues with my Peco turnouts. I then started removing all the blade cross arms and spring assembly form them and making my own. I then figured, what the hell, downloaded those templates from (oh boy, I've been referee in roller derby all afternoon and my brain is mush)..  Tim Ferris makes those tasty turnout kits..  You know the ones.  Anyway, I sat down with some old crappy Peco track and stripped off the ties,paint,ballast etc and using Tim's PCB ties, began making my own from scratch.

HERE COMES THE KICKER.

My first one was pretty basic.. it didn't look real pretty. My second was better and the third I was so proud of, I took it along to my old train club.(along with the following 3, plus a crossing!)

It is so straight forward. If you use the templates you will not have many problems if any. Just take your time and check. I only had my NMRA gauge and two little gauges.

I now have an HO urban switching layout and I did much the same. I have some Shinohara code70 turnouts that are about 6 layout veterans. I removed the point assembly and retrofitted new PCB ties. I also made entirely new turnouts. My first !00% custom made unit was a 18"r over 18"r crossing !

I will never buy a prefab turnout again. I bought a box of cd70 flex, fishplates , PCB ,timber ties and bundle of cd 70 rail and I don't look back. I have saved $100's. Literally $100's...

and you know what? They are so easy to adjust ! I swear by 'em not at 'em. (only at Derby, not trains)