I've read that plastic ties on HO track can't hold up to sunlight. Using other ties made from other materials, would it be possible to build an HO garden railroad? It seems to me that battery power (dead rail) would be the way to go vs. losing track power over a long distance. In regards to track and power, what would it take to build an HO garden railroad?
One of the biggest obstacles to overcome is power; the typical HO locomotive (even steam) does not have enough internal space to accommodate batteries, radio and speed control equipment to put it all together. Aside from that, the outdoor environment is hell on ties and rail. Even in G gauge, it can be a challenge. Just ask Dan Hyde.
I have seen it tried a few times and besides the power issue, there are all the things that are outside that lead to derailments like a blade of grass or a bug.
Oh my word. Between the various varmints that seem to find their way under our privacy fence, not to mention the two canines that tear through the yard, plus teen parties involving badminton, tetherball, Whiffle(r) Ball, Bocce I'm a long way off from giving garden railroading any consideration. I'm afraid I'm no help whatsover on this one. Best Regards,
I wouldn't do this. I can almost guarantee it isn't going to work out very well. HO track and equipment are not very tolerant of any imperfections in the interface between rail and wheel. GS
