I use Peco Code 80 because of it's versatility. The only real issue you will find between code 55 and code 80 is the "age of the trains/rolling stock" that will/might be run. Older trains and rolling stock have deeper wheel flanges that code 55 doesn't particularly like. The only other issue might be the appearance. Some say that code 55 is more realistic looking but I'd suggest that is more a personal preference than an "issue".
Bottom line, if your only going to be running "new equipment" code 55 will suit. If your going to be running older equipment then err on the side of "better to be safe than sorry" and go with code 80.
Yes, Wombat457 started as a total newbe. He started HO, did N-scale (the shed layout), and an outdoor G-gauge layout. He started and participated in many great threads as we watched him struggle with things, ask questions, and then share what he had learned.Great thread.
What does PITA mean?I started my first N scale wit Atlas code 80. Atlas was a PITA back then. My second was a mix of Kato Turnouts, code 80" and Micro Engineering code 55. I had some left over Bridge track from micro engineering Its code 55 too. I used the Kato for all but the trestles and they work good together. If i had to do it again, i would use just plain ole code 80 Kato. Just my 2 cents.