Ztrains: Micro-Trains Micro-Track

Note: This article was written prior to the release of the Micro-Trains turnouts. We will update this page soon... but here are some photos of the Micro-Trains turnouts. These are prototype photos but they are now available for purchase.

A Big Move For Z Scale

Z scale model railroading just got a whole lot easier for newcomers as well as for experienced Z scale modelers. In the Summer of 2005 Micro-Trains of Oregon introduced Micro-Track (see photo right), their all-in-one track and roadbed modular solution. Micro-Track is based on Micro-Trains flex track, which uses Code 55 rail and has a North American tie spacing.

For years other model railroad scales have had this type of track and roadbed product available to them, and many in the Z scale community have voiced the opinion that a similar line of ready to run track in Z scale would help to further fuel the growth of Z. Micro-Trains seems to have listened and in the Summer of 2005 brought their Micro-Trains track to market.

Dual Joining System

Micro-Track utilizes their Dual Joining System (DJS™) to join and hold the track sections together. This dual system is made up of replaceable plastic snap connectors (see both photos right) and individual, pre-installed rail joiners. This dual system provides a positive track lock as well as supplying power the rails.

This connecting system of rail joiners and plastic roadbed connectors seems quite sturdy, but if either gets damaged, you can order replacements from your local Micro-Trains dealer. The rail joiner is part #990 40 000, the plastic roadbed connector is part #990 40 008.

Joining the track sections couldn't be easier. I placed two track sections on a flat surface, lined these sections up, then simply pushed them together (see photo below left). You feel a very gentle but positive snap when the two pieces join together. You can see just how well these track sections join up (see photo below center).

Taking the track sections apart is almost as easy. By holding both pieces near the track joint, and applying a gentle side-to-side rocking motion, the track pieces come apart very nicely. Getting power to the track is accomplished by means of a 110mm long section of track (see photo below right) that has built-in clips for the power wires.

Overall Impressions
Micro-Trains has developed a well thought out and executed track system, made even more so by the fact that this new Micro-Track matches up well with Micro-Trains' North American style flex track (see photo below right).

Micro-Trains has also made their track sections compatible with the Marklin sectional track geometry. This means that if you want to mix and match different track components from Micro-Trains as well as from Marklin, you can do so.

Currently Micro-Trains does not offer turnouts for their Micro-Track line but turnouts, as well as additional sectional track pieces, should be available by the Summer of 2006. In the meantime, you can use turnouts and other sectional track pieces produced by Marklin. Since the track geometry is the same, you can even use current track planning software to help design your layout.

For new users as well as experienced Z scale enthusiasts, with a street price of under $20 for the Micro-Track Oval Starter track system, it looks like Micro-Trains has a winner with their Micro-Track system.

Monday, March 8, 2010
Build Your Own Zthek SW-1 Switcher

Lost Brass Frets... Found Here!

Lajos Thek of Zthek has reported 2 etched brass sheets of his popular SW-1 switcher have been discovered at his etching company's warehouse.

This means that for as long as they last, there will be 28, SW-1 brass frets available for sale. These frets come without the small milled detail parts but at just $35 per brass fret this is a great chance to build your own SW-1.

Contact Lajos via email here: Lajos
You can also reach him through his website: www.zthek.com

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