Buying track on ebay

[ScottyG]

This topic has probably been brought up before, but searching got me no results. I see plenty of auctions on Ebay sellings track lots. Is manufacturer "A" N scale Code 80 track compatible with manufacturer "B" code 80 ?

 

[midrange]

Is there a difference? I checked it out and found nothing but the codes being different.

I would assume yes you can.

Here is a link i found for a read.

http://www.atlasrr.com/layoutfaq.htm

 

[UP2CSX]

Yes, all track of the same code size is compatible. The only difference if it's normal Atlas track or something like Kato Unitrack, with a built in roadbed. Those would not be compatible without some work. Even tracks that are different code sizes are compatible through the use of transition joiners. It's pretty normal to have heavier track on the mainlines and lighter rails on things like industrial spurs so mixing and matching is part of the hobby.

 

[nephthyr]

Although it is compatible, personally I don't like mixing brands of track but its just a personal preference!!

 

[midrange]

if i haver to, i'll mix code 100 with code 83. Just ties that are different as far as i know. But they get covered in ballast anyways.

 

[ScottyG]

Hmmm. I thought the different codes also pertained to the rail height in thousandths of an inch. I didn't think you could mix different codes.

 

[Rico]

The codes do refer to rail height, the ties do vary with certain track but not by the code.
If you join two different codes of track you need to raise the smaller one to match the height of the taller one, usually with transition joiners.