Newbie question.

[KelZac]

Howdy everyone, was just wondering if I should solder my track joints.

 

[rzw0wr]

Some do, some don't.
Usually you only solder a few pieces then leave an unsoldered section.
You need to leave some place for the track to expand and contract.
I never solder a turnout to the other track.

However, you do not have to solder your track.
Using feeders to your bus will do about the same thing.

 

[wombat457]

I think it depends on what sort of track you use. If you use sectional track then there really isn't any need to solder. If you use flex track then, as Dale said, solder every other join and any spots where the joins may occur on a curve just to keep the track in place.

 

[Lynnb]

Definitely solder the curves if your using flex track. Lay them out straight, solder then when your ready to put them in the curve remove a tie or two, I generally don't snap the tie right out but pop it off the side needed then pop it back on or trim the tie plates away.

 

[photoman475]

I will solder sectional track. I've found that electrical current flows better, and I get better, more consistent performance from my old Athearn blue box locos. Even if the rail joiners are brand new, some sections will get soldered.

I agree with the advice on not soldering every section and not at turnouts. And solder the outside of the rails, not the inside! Experience with derailed locos cured me of that one in a hurry!

 

[Iron Horseman]

Howdy everyone, was just wondering if I should solder my track joints.

I only solder flex track on curves. And then I solder it in place on the curve so I don't have to destroy any cross ties by bending after it has been soldered straight. That way it goes exactly how and where I want it. I put a rail joiner on exactly one time. If it has to be taken off for any reason, it is thrown away and replace with a new joiner. That way they are always tight. Much easier to replace a rail joiner than it is to unsolder rails to adjust the track plan. I've seen many many turnouts ruined by people trying to unsolder them. Of course the more scary part is that those same people take them to swap meets or ebay and sell them to unsuspecting bargain hunters.