Trams/Streetcars

[Hathaway Browne]

One thing I'd love on a layout is a tram line, but I'm concerned they might be tricky to do.

Do most models run on normal HO flex track? And I'm guessing that I'd have to use something like Hydrocal to embed the track in the road surface.

Just wanted to gauge opinion on them, whilst I'm in the planning stages.

 

[Espeefan]

Most models will run on regular HO flex track. The better quality models are dual mode, and can run on track only or use overhead wire.

You can mount your track to the roadbed in a conventional manner and pave over it, or use the Walthers street system, depending on how long your line will be. A search on YouTube will get you video of several good traction layouts. The HO Traction Modeling group on Yahoo will get you in touch with modelers who can answer your track and street questions.

 

[alocsin]

I'd like to recommend the Bachmann Spectrum DCC trolleys. I have the HO Birney -- it does 4-inch-radius curves nicely, and can operate from either overhead or track power. Quite nicely detailed as well and has a lighted interior.