[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
> Clark,
> Given that we have 1:20.3 and a growing supply of parts, buildings,
> accessories, etc., then wouldn't it make sense to push for standard gauge
> models at 1:20.3 scale? Making track to a different gauge is pretty easy,
> Gauge 3 already exists (although the locos are 2.5" gauge instead of 2.78".)
I have always liked the way HO modelers handle narrow gauge with both
gauges on the same set of ties.
> It wouldn't be too tricky to persude one of the track manufacturers to
> produce a tie base for code 250 rail at 2.78", or 2.5" or dual gauge - it's a
> small mould and high volume output!
I'm not so sure of that Pete. I personally only know one fellow that
has a Gauge 3 live steamer. (Jim Hadden) Jim has attempted to get Sunset
Valley Trackworks (Ted Sharpe) to make a Gauge 3 - Gauge 1 tie strip
without success. Ted said that if our Gauge 3 interest group would
front some die making money he would be happy to carry that product in
his line of offerings.
Ted was talking $50,000 bucks to have a new 1 ft long dual G3/1 tie
strip mold for code 250 rail. Some of you are aware that Ted already
makes a Gauge 1 - Gauge 0 tie strip which sorta works if you use 1:32
for Standard gauge on #1 gauge track and narrow gauge running on O
gauge track. The SM32 boys like his dual gauge track just fine.
I do think by using a short section of Gauge 3 track and a Gauge 3 box
car emphasizes the difference between narrow and standard gauge. One
only has to look at historical photos like the Carson & Colorado (NG)
and V&T (Standard) sitting across from one another with a loading dock
between them as freight was moved from one side to the other to see the
dramatic difference in size. All of that is lost when you run 1:32 and
1:20.3 on the same track.
What a shame.
Clark
