B Tank

Hi Jimyjames, The thank you for the offer but the R771 TrakMat is cheap enough I just bought one from eBay. What I didn't know is that the curves provided in sets can't be used together to complete the mat. I didn't know about the different radius curves. So I'm currently looking at buying separate pieces. I was researching this yesterday. Currently looks like I need a set of 8xR607 to complete the 2nd radius and probably buy a couple of Y points to join the tracks together as it will be cool to have my 2 trains be able to switch tracks. As I have 2 controllers I'll buy insulating Fishplates to keep them separate.

So it looks like I need 8x R607 to give me the inner radius curve, thanks to the PDF doc! Looking on eBay they aren't that expensive so I think I'll go for it.

So tried to line my 2 sets up with the 'obselete' mat I bought from eBay. The Percy set fits perfectly but unfortunately the curves for the inner track on the trackmat are a smaller curve angle and my Thomas curves are the same as the Percy set so unfortunately can't use both together. I thought it would be a little off but looks like I'd need all new curve tracks for it to match this mat.

Thomas R9283 Couple of days later, Percy R9284 Our first train sets, I wonder if we have caught the bug.. I'm finding myself endless researching now!

I bought the Thomas set first. I later bought the Percy set. Now the Percy, is so much quieter when in operation, compared to the Thomas. The Thomas in comparison seems to produce a loud buzzing sound whenever it recieves power which is in relation to it's speed/current. The Percy in comparison is almost silent. I didn't notice when playing with the Thomas set on it's own, but now with the Percy in the mix, it sounds like something may be wrong with the Thomas. It runs fine however. Anybody who has both sets, is this normal, or is something wrong with my Thomas?

Thanks all for the replies. I actually really like the idea of buying felt. I've ordered the cheap mat from Ebay anyway but I'll also look at getting a felt mat that can be easily rolled up and put away.

Thank you all for the responses. I think the problem I have is that Hornby TrakMat in the Shop is £18.99 for what is effectively a printed sheet of paper. My setup will not be long term it will be packed away after each play so I won't be doing a wood base setup, it will be used more like a mat for the dining table or coffee table. My Thomas set cost £32.50 brand new and the Percy I paid £59.50 new from Rails and because if this in comparison I struggle to justify the £18.99 TrakMat. I had a look on Ebay however and I can find R771 TrakMat for a lot cheaper, I.e. https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F223541502831 I am more comfortable with ordering this one.. any reason why I shouldn't?

Hi all, Recently got the R9283 Thomas (first train set) and just ordered the R9284 Percy from Rails of Sheffield too as it's on clearance, as an expansion to the Thomas set. These are mainly for my young son for when he get's older but in the meantime I can have a quick play! I'm looking for one Track Mat that I can use with both of these sets to make it all look more involving, but I'm put off by the Hornby one because of bad reviews. Is there a suitable alternative I could buy that anyone is aware of?