1:43.5 Decauville Type 4 Channel Tie - 24 Pieces

These ties are representations of the channel-style ties used by Decauville for their Type 4 Portable Track. They are designed to be used with Micro Engineering Code 55 Rail. Please note that these ties are extremely fragile, especially the inside gauge rail clamps which can shear off during assembly. Due to the fragile nature of these ties, they are not recommended for use as functional track, but rather to create stacks or isolated sections of portable track for scenic detail or car loads. For straight track, use 6 ties for each 5m section, four ties for each 2.5m section or two ties for each 1.25m section. For curved track use four ties for 2.5m sections or two ties for 1.25 meter sections. Decauville measured the radius of curves to the inside of the outer rail and offered 4, 6 and 8m radii, with the length of each section being the length of the outer rail. Assembly takes a steady hand and patience. The most successful method has been to first file the ends of the rail smooth ensuring all burrs are removed from the cut ends, especially around the web and foot of the rail. Slide the two centre ties into place on a pair of rails and position them in close to the correct positions. Gently side the remaining ties onto the rails from either end. Ties may pop off unexpectedly; about half the time this doesn't seem to damage the rail clamps but sometimes thy shear off, at which point that particular tie may need to be glued in place. Once all the ties are in place, carefully adjust the ties to the correct locations. You may use a small amount of CA/ACC adhesive to lock them in place, or achieve the same effect by applying a rust-coloured paint. Designed for 1:43.5 scale, but suitable for use in 1:45, 1:48 or 1:50. This model produces track panels in 9mm gauge.