Before starting a new HO train layout, a major consideration is selecting the brand and type of track that will be used. Factors in making this decision include the following:

1. Are you expanding from a new train set OR starting from scratch?
2. Will it be a temporary layout such as a Christmas display OR a permanent layout on a dedicated surface?
3. Do you enjoy learning and completing the modeling/hobby techniques needed to construct a more detailed model railroad OR are you more interested in getting the trains up and running ASAP by employing the pricinpals of KISS (Keep It Simple- Stupid!) ?
4. Are the trains that you plan to operate realitively new (say 1995 or newer) OR are they older family keepsakes or yardsale finds?
5. Keeping cost low the MAJOR consideration in track selection OR can you invest a little more in the track for superior appearance and train operations, and a wider selection or track pieces?

Let's address these 5 questions one at a time.

Question 1: If you have a train set (a GREAT way to get started) you already have SOME track to with which to play. Most new HO train sets come with a limited amount of track, usually just enough to to form a circle or oval and run the trains around and around. This generally doesn't take up much space, but can get a little tedious after a while. The track in almost all new train sets in mounted on a plastic base (roadbed) that serves several purposes. Here is a list of Features/Benefits of this type of track:

• The plastic base simulates the stone roadbed used under real railroad track for an attractive/realistic appearance.
• Tabs on the track sections secure the track sections together eliminating the NEED to secure the track to a table surface.
• This is THE way to go for a layout that must be taken down and set up again as in the case of a seasonal display or when space is VERY limited.

• This "Roadbed" track comes in two (2) quality/prices grades based on the material used for the metal rails. There is a less costly product using a rail refered to as "Steel Alloy". The rail is silver in color and fortunately the various manufacturers have decided uniformly to use a BLACK plastic roadbed base on there Steel Alloy track products. This type of track comes in many "entry level" train sets, mostly from the Bachmann ("EZ Track") and Lifelike ("Power-Loc Track") companies. As mentioned, this is the less costly option, but there is a limited number of track options in this product from both manufacturers. The nicer, but slightly more expensive option is track with a "Nickel-Silver Alloy" material used for the track rails. The rail is pale gold in color and fortunately the various manufacturers have decided uniformly to use a GRAY plastic roadbed base on there Nickel-Silver (NS) Alloy track products. The Nickel-Silver Alloy rail is corrosion resistant (won't rust) and is a better conductor of electricity. Since this is a little nicer product, the manufacturers feel it is a good choice for the model railroader who wishes to advance beyond the basic oval. Both Bachmann (EZ Track) and Lifelike (Power-Loc Track) make Nickel-Silver rail roadbed track. Bachmann makes the widest variety of track pieces including straights in different lengths, curves in different radius, switch tracks, and crossings. The Atlas company makes a popular roadbed NS rail track (True-Track) that incorporates the feature that the track can be easily snapped off the plastic roadbed base if the modeler wishes to go on to more advanced track laying and detailing techniques.

NOTE: This is turning out to be a long project. Please check back for further details. Ebay does not seem to provide a means for me to save my incomplete guide without making it available on line. Thanks, Steve K.