10-21-2009, 11:00 PM
I prefer to spike the track in place - I use Atlas code 83, with spike holes at mid-tie, although you have to open the ones you wish to use from the underside. In general viewing, the spikes aren't all that noticeable...
![[Image: Foe-toesfromfirstcd229-1.jpg]](http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b399/doctorwayne/some%20layout%20views/Foe-toesfromfirstcd229-1.jpg)
...although they are in some photos :oops:
![[Image: Foe-toesfromfirstcd226.jpg]](http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b399/doctorwayne/some%20layout%20views/Foe-toesfromfirstcd226.jpg)
You can remove the spikes after ballasting, as the secured ballast will hold the tracks in place - I didn't bother. The reason that I prefer spikes is that, until you ballast, the track can be easily adjusted, or, if necessary, moved or even removed. This is important if your track becomes misaligned as it adjusts to your layout area, and as trains are run over it. I left mine un-ballasted for several months as I made adjustments - mostly minor, but I did remove a crossover which proved un-needed.
Wayne
...although they are in some photos :oops:
You can remove the spikes after ballasting, as the secured ballast will hold the tracks in place - I didn't bother. The reason that I prefer spikes is that, until you ballast, the track can be easily adjusted, or, if necessary, moved or even removed. This is important if your track becomes misaligned as it adjusts to your layout area, and as trains are run over it. I left mine un-ballasted for several months as I made adjustments - mostly minor, but I did remove a crossover which proved un-needed.
Wayne