How good is Kato Unitrack?

[Markn]

My old HO layout was built using Fleischmann Profi track which was OK. However I found the quality of the points could vary. Some were really solid other weren't. So how well made is the Kato N gauge track? Am I right in thinking the points are all electofrog?

Thanks.

 

Sorry the app won't allow me to edit the thread name. Silly auto predict. I was meant to say Kato. [emoji3]

 

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Edited April 17, 2017 by Markn

[kvp]

The Kato turnouts are electrofrog and self polarising. They are electrically quite reliable as long as you don't overheat them with too long switch pulses. Some types have power routing option screws for DCC operation and switching to insulfrog mode to allow cutting.

 

There are many types, the most used ones are the long #6 and the short #4. The latter type might cause derailments if put behind a curve (especially superelevated ones) and/or used with out of gauge wheelsets. Some careful filing could fix this.

 

The tracks themselves are really sturdy, even for floor running.

[Yavianice]

I switched from Fleischmann HO gauge to Kato Unitrack N gauge myself months ago, and I think that KATO is much, much more reliable and sturdy, especially with the double track parts. Fleischmann HO gauge tends to move around on temporary layouts, but I do not have any issues with my KATO unitrack on the same floor. The only thing that is too bad is that the choice in switches is too small in my opinion. Also, like Kvp mentioned, you need to be careful with #4 switches.

 

 

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[ToniBabelony]

As I progress deeper into T-Trak territory, I use Kato tracks more and more and start to like them more and more as well. Tomix has great and simple geometry, as well as a plethora of points and useful accessories to choose from. I also think the limited choice of points at Kato's is the main crux of Kato's Unitrack and a point where it could improve on to be fully competitive with Tomix's Finetrack.

 

In terms of goodness/quality, I'd say Unitrak is king.

Edited April 18, 2017 by Kabutoni

[Sir Madog]

Like all track with molded on track bed, Kato Unitrack looks a bit plasticky, but that can be remedied with a little effort by painting the rail sides and carefully adding fine ballast.

[scotspensioner]

My set up has to be assembled and dismantled every time I run trains.The Kato unitrack is definitely one of the best things about it!I assemble it at the start and my wife voluntarily dismantles it while I pack it back in its boxes!Tough it definitely is!

[Markn]

Thanks for the all the advice. I will be using the Kato point switchs as I like the idea of their simplicity and the fact they clip onto the side of the controller.

 

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