CONVERSION TO C TRACK

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These pictures show how I converted from M track to C track and converted catenary posts for use with C track. Since my layout is digital and C track provides a more reliable digital signal, I wanted to convert to C track for my main routes and retain M track for lesser used routes and for my yards.

I have complex switching configurations which didn't allow me to use the only M to C transition track which is a straight track. I found a simple way to make any C track, including switches, a transition track. I used a Dremel tool and a thin cutting disk to do this.

Any C track can be converted by:

1. First removing all the metal connectors at one end of the track. Use pliers to just pry ALL the metal from that end of the track.


C track with connectors.

Parts of C track connectors removed with pliers.
2. Snap off any plastic projections with the pliers. Use the Dremel tool to sand off any projections at the end and below the track.


C track with connectors removed.

C track with connector removed.

The Dremel tool and pliers.
3. Carefully cut under EACH rail with the Dremel cutting disk so that a rail connector can slip over the trail. You have to cut back about 4-5 mm or half the length of a rail connector.


Make 4-5 mm cuts under each rail. Note the width of the used part of the abrasive disk.

The Dremel tool thin abrasive disk.
4. Remove a rail connector from an old piece of M track and slip it over the left rail.


C track with rail connector.

C track with rail connector.
5. Connect the track piece to the M track.


Transitions from M track switches to C track using self-made curved C tracks.
Pictures After the Conversion to C Track


All of this M track has been replaced with C track. Any offers?

It's easier to replace M track with C track than I thought.

Another view of the M to C transitions using self-made curved C track,

A closer view of the transitions using self-made curved C tracks.

The transition is tight and smooth.

It is even possible to make transitions using C track switches.

Another view of the transition from a C track switch to an M track switch.

Switches are relatively easy to combine.

Switches are relatively easy to combine.

Turnout combinations are easy to assemble. Here is a double slip switch, standard turnout, and a long turnout combined. Note the small space between the two sets of tracks using the long turnout.

Note the small space between the two sets of tracks using the long turnout.

Contrary to what some have said, the C track 3-way switches work fine for me.

Converting the Catenary Posts for C Track

1. With a needle-nose pliers straighten the base plate of the catenarry.


Needle-nose pliers and catenary posts. The plate without the post has been straightened.

Gripping the straightened base plate with the needle-nose pliers. The plate without the post has been straightened.

The finished products with the curve at the end of the base plate.
2. Using the tip of the needle-nose grip the end of the straightened base plate. Grip about 3-4 mm of the end and bend this up 100o. Test the base plate with C track. It should snap into place with slight pressure. If it is loose, straighten and grip slightly more of the end plate and bend as above. If it is tight, straighten and grip slightly less of the end plate and bend as above.


Note the proper bend.
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