Getting Started
There are a few easy-to-assemble train tracks on the market. (i.e., Tru Track from Atlas and E-Z Track from Bachmann.) Most are nickel-silver or steel alloy rails with a plastic roadbed attached. They snap together and are quickly ready for operation. Older children are able to assemble with little supervision.
Conventional train track does not have the roadbed attached. Brass model train track is the best conductor of electricity, but it tarnishes; steel is the next best, but if exposed to moisture or humidity, it will rust. Most collectors and fans of conventional model train track prefer nickel-silver. Although it is the most expensive track, it is an excellent conductor of electricity and does not rust or tarnish.
Different brands and metals can be combined within one layout. However, metals should not be mixed on the same track circuit. Dust reduces the power of model trains as well as the performance of even the most expensive track. It is important to regularly clean model train tracks.
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Special Track Systems
Team tracks are a small group of tracks located in a freight yard, where incoming and outgoing freight trains can load or drop off boxcars. Team tracks technically belong to no one and can be used by a number of model trains that access the freight yard.
Exchange train tracks in a model train layout are intended for two trains meeting in order to exchange goods. Marshalling yards are placed at freight train stations to separate cars onto various tracks.
Staging/Fiddle yards consist of a return loop, storage tracks, and a multi-industry track for loading and unloading. They are often located under the model train layout; their purpose is to move traffic through the layout. Staging/Fiddle yards make use of swinging train tracks to minimize use of crossings. Trains leave the layout via model train tunnels. Two staging areas make it possible to have continuous movement through the layout.
