Track compatibility and push along trains

[Spendare]

Firstly apologies if this has been asked before, I've been reading FAQ's and scanning but can't see any direct answers.

I recently got all my Lego from when I was a kid, this included the 7720 set and I've then managed to get a 7710 set off ebay with a load of track (seems like I got a bargain with this at £35 GBP!)

I have been getting all this for my son, he's 4 and loves trains and we want to expand more on this.  

So my question is firstly, does the new Lego City track fit with the older track I have?  Seems like the connectors at the end are different?

Secondly, can you push along the new Lego City sets?  He's really not interested in the RC option at his age but I'm wondering does the motors in them stop them from free wheeling?

 

Thanks

Dan 

[Ashi Valkoinen]

Hi Dan,

the connectors are different, but the gauge is the same, so with custom ME-Models universal connector part (non-LEGO) or with LEGO-solution using jumper plates you can make those tracks to fit almost without a gap. Note that point geometry for old-style tracks (light gray rails on dark gray sleepers and two inner metal rails) is different from the point geometry of nowadays track - old track has 8 studs offset between two parallel tracks after the point, new track has 16 studs.

If you want to design track geometries virtually, google and use BlueBrick 1.8.1. software to do so. :)

[dr_spock]

You can push the motorized CITY trains.  The motor will add some resistance so extra force is required compared to like pushing the 7710 Push Train.  With the train motor it will stop rolling as soon as you stop pushing.  You can replace the motor with a bogie made from regular LEGO train wheels if you want more free rolling.