Alternative 9v rail solution using PF track.

[Adamskii]

Hi folks, was just wondering has anyone ever suggested converting power functions rail sections to the ever rarer 9v track by using the conductive copper tape?

When I used to fiddle with slot cars, the pro tracks were made from routed timber and the conductive elements were either braided metal or self adhesive copper tape. sometimes even the plastic track on a big home set up would have the tape applied to improve connectivity ( I used to solder my tracks).

So I suggest you could apply the copper tape over the power function rails and still achieve conductivity. Also could apply it to some track sections that are custom made (like switches. crossovers etc). The copper tape is very very cheap so it would be more cost effective to buy the current track and convert it (If it works!)

Anyways if this is old hat let me know. Just something I have not seen in the Lego train community, but then I am quite new. I do not have any 9 volt kit so cannot try it.

Adam

An example of the tape is found here.

http://www.ebay.com....33329955&_uhb=1

[Spitfire2865]

This is the most well known method to converting track. The only downside is it peels after a while.

[Duq]

It's been tried but hasn't caught on. Because of the way the 9V train motors are built the tape needs to be on the inside of the track and the wheels are spring-loaded to push against the track and the copper tape wears out. It's also not easy to dismantle a layout with copper tape.

The most promising alternative seems to be ME Models but they haven't come back after the initial batch following production issues. Big Bens idea looked interesting but seems to have been cancelled before ever being produced.