ideas shim Peco code 100 turnout to Atlas code 100 track??

[steveturner]

Guys I am fine tuning my yard. Noticed small pieces of Atlas code 100 track dip. Small pieces of track between ladder switches. Obviously it happens on long pieces to but its noticeable on short pieces joining switches. Wouldn't mind rectifying or trying to this slight issue. Any pointers?. I'm sure the Atlas ties might be a bit thinner. I was thinking some sandpaper as a shim I have no styrene thin enough. Thoughts please.Steve

[Deleted]

Nov 20, 2016 15:15:15 GMT -8 steveturner said:

Guys I am fine tuning my yard. Noticed small pieces of Atlas code 100 track dip. Small pieces of track between ladder switches. Obviously it happens on long pieces to but its noticeable on short pieces joining switches. Wouldn't mind rectifying or trying to this slight issue. Any pointers?. I'm sure the Atlas ties might be a bit thinner. I was thinking some sandpaper as a shim I have no styrene thin enough. Thoughts please.Steve

You can often find clear plastic sheet around the house- packaging material (like box sleeves), unused modeling parts, etc. It doesn't even have to be styrene. Or you could buy $2 worth of plastic sheet or strip.

Many proto yard leads & tracks were in rough shape. Rougher than seen almost any model railroad. If you are modeling a real place, what condition was the track in?

Unless you are modeling some ultra-heavy-duty yard lead, you might consider ripping out the code 100 and replacing it with code 70 or 83.

[areibel]

You could just use some silicone caulk under it, if you don't force it down too hard it will form a cushion under the ties when it cures. You might even be able to force it under without tearing it up if you're careful

[Brakie]

Nov 20, 2016 15:15:15 GMT -8 steveturner said:

Guys I am fine tuning my yard. Noticed small pieces of Atlas code 100 track dip. Small pieces of track between ladder switches. Obviously it happens on long pieces to but its noticeable on short pieces joining switches. Wouldn't mind rectifying or trying to this slight issue. Any pointers?. I'm sure the Atlas ties might be a bit thinner. I was thinking some sandpaper as a shim I have no styrene thin enough. Thoughts please.Steve

Steve,I had the same issue and used cardboard from a K Cup coffee box-a cereal box should work as well.

[steveturner]

Thanks guys. Have some sheets of plastic window glazing etc will try that. Want to get it best as possible before ballast. Less than perfection usually results in derailments LOL. Never gave it much thought with the odd switch here and there but in a yard situation you do see the change in elevation. Operating was my main concern and if I can get rid of any chance of an issue I best do these things. Rushed track work can lead to issues. Stebe

[jonklein611]

Save your old business cards. They make perfect shims.

[riogrande]

Nov 21, 2016 3:36:58 GMT -8 jonklein611 said:

Save your old business cards. They make perfect shims.

I have used old business cards to shim in all kinds of situation. They are of a good thickness that you can layer them as needed to get the right thickness.

[Brakie]

Nov 20, 2016 17:29:03 GMT -8 steveturner said:

Thanks guys. Have some sheets of plastic window glazing etc will try that. Want to get it best as possible before ballast. Less than perfection usually results in derailments LOL. Never gave it much thought with the odd switch here and there but in a yard situation you do see the change in elevation. Operating was my main concern and if I can get rid of any chance of an issue I best do these things. Rushed track work can lead to issues. Stebe

Steve,By fine tuning your track you will enjoy 100% derailment free operation. I been achieving that goal for at least 55 years simply because I take derailments as a personal embarrassment more so if a car of mine derails at the club because I overlooked a minor issue like a KD coupler trip pin being to low.