Any value in rare items of track?

[Tony57]

Hi

I am just wondering is there any value in rare items of old track, I was going through a number of old standard electric points when I came across a working Mark 1 electric point in fairly good condition, apparently these were only produced by Triang for about 6 months before being replaced by the Mark 2. I am not looking at the finacial side more of the history of track development

[LCDR]

 Track items are rarely listed in monetary value terms, however the early stuff  in good working order will be prized by collectors of old trains. The biggest problem with Standard track is the plastic used for the base. Most early points and Mark 1 is typical had bases made from Cellulose Acetate which usually warped over time, shrinkage being the biggest problem. The track gauge shrunk with the plastic too, early Triang wheels were fairly forgiving but more modern stuff may give problems. Very late Standard track (especially Mark 2 and Mark 3 points, and large radius curves ) were made in a Polystyrene type plastic which was more stable. You would be lucky to find a diamond crossing in Polystyrene though.

The other point motor that was rare came about with Series 3 track. I had one and even using the correct black passing contact switch mine melted from excessive heat.  To find one of these with the curved slatted top in good order is a red letter day.

Few people study track, I have taken an interest but cannot profess to being an expert.

[Ruffnut Thorston]

The first Series 3 Point Motors did indeed have problems with overheating...and there are two versions, one for left and one for right hand points!

Later ones have a re-designed casing, but still needed two types.

The Super 4/ Earlier System 6 X.404 (etc.) Point motor is suitable for both hands of points....a better and more economical idea! (They got it right in the end! ;) )

Mk 1 Standard points have a clever arrangement so that the point can be changed by hand (moving the switch rails as there is no hand lever). I have one too! ;)

Mk2 and 2a Points use the same solonoid, which was sold as X.97 (I think) for "retro-fitting" to hand operated Mk 2 and 2A points.

The Mk 2a points of 1960-1961 used the same design of switch rails and plastic frog mouldings as Series 3 Points.

[VESPA]

Sarah, are you the same Sarah from Model Rail Forum? Just curious.

[Ruffnut Thorston]

Sarah, are you the same Sarah from Model Rail Forum? Just curious.

Probably....there are a couple of Sarahs about....but most likely me....especially about Tri-ang Railways, (and other older makes) and Ffrwd Locks! ;)