1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, use, and maintenance of your PECO SL-600 O SM-32 Streamline Code 200 Flexible Nickel Silver Track. Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning any work to ensure proper setup and long-term performance of your model railway layout.
The PECO SL-600 track is designed for O Gauge model railways, featuring a flexible design that allows for custom curve radii and straight sections. Its nickel silver construction ensures excellent electrical conductivity and durability.
2. Product Overview
The PECO SL-600 track is a high-quality flexible track section for O Gauge model railway systems. Key features include:
- Gauge: O Gauge (1:43.5 to 1:48 scale, depending on region).
- Length: Each section is supplied in 914 mm (36 inches) lengths.
- Rail Code: Code 200 (0.200 inches / 5.08 mm rail height), suitable for most O Gauge rolling stock.
- Material: Nickel Silver rails for superior electrical conductivity and resistance to corrosion.
- Sleeper Type: SM-32 style wooden sleepers, providing a realistic appearance.
- Flexibility: Designed to be bent to create custom curves and gradients, offering versatility in layout design.
3. Setup and Installation
3.1. Handling Precautions
Handle track sections carefully to avoid kinking or permanently deforming the rails. While flexible, excessive force or sharp bends can damage the track.
3.2. Cutting and Shaping
The flexible nature of the track allows it to be shaped into curves. To achieve desired curves, gently bend the track by hand. For precise curves, a track bending tool may be used. For straight sections or to adjust length, the track can be cut using a fine-toothed razor saw or rail nippers. Ensure cuts are clean and burr-free to maintain smooth running surfaces and good electrical contact.
3.3. Joining Track Sections
Track sections are joined using PECO SL-700 O Gauge Rail Joiners (sold separately) or similar compatible joiners. Slide the rail joiners onto the ends of the rails, ensuring a snug fit. For permanent layouts, soldering the rail joiners to the rails is recommended to ensure reliable electrical continuity and mechanical strength.
- Align the ends of two track sections.
- Slide rail joiners onto one rail end.
- Carefully push the other track section into the rail joiners, ensuring rails are perfectly aligned.
- For soldered joints, apply a small amount of flux and solder to the top and sides of the rail joiner, ensuring not to melt the plastic sleepers.
3.4. Securing to Baseboard
Once the track is laid out and shaped, it should be secured to the baseboard. Small track pins or screws can be used, inserted through the pre-drilled holes in the sleepers. Avoid overtightening, which can distort the track. Adhesive may also be used for a more permanent fixture, particularly for ballasted track.
3.5. Electrical Connections
For reliable operation, especially on larger layouts, it is crucial to provide regular electrical feeds to the track. Solder feeder wires to the underside of the rails at intervals (e.g., every 6-8 feet or at the start of each new block). Ensure all soldered connections are clean and secure. Use appropriate gauge wire for your power supply and layout size.
4. Operating Considerations
Once installed, the PECO SL-600 track provides a robust and reliable running surface for O Gauge rolling stock. Ensure that all track sections are level and smoothly joined to prevent derailments. Regularly check for any debris on the track surface that could impede train movement or electrical contact.
The Code 200 rail height is compatible with most O Gauge locomotives and rolling stock. However, always verify compatibility with your specific models, especially older equipment which may have deeper wheel flanges.
5. Maintenance
5.1. Track Cleaning
Over time, dust, dirt, and oxidation can accumulate on the railheads, leading to poor electrical contact and erratic train operation. Clean the railheads regularly using a track cleaning block, a soft cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol, or a specialized track cleaning fluid. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the rail surface.
5.2. Inspection
Periodically inspect the track for any signs of damage, loose rail joiners, or lifted track pins. Ensure all electrical connections remain secure. Address any issues promptly to maintain optimal performance.
5.3. Storage (for uninstalled track)
If storing uninstalled track sections, keep them flat and straight in their original packaging or a protective container to prevent accidental bending or damage. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Erratic train movement or stalling | Dirty railheads, loose electrical connections, insufficient power feeds. | Clean track thoroughly. Check all feeder wire connections and rail joiners. Add more power feeds if necessary. |
| Frequent derailments | Uneven track joints, kinks in curves, incorrect gauge, debris on track. | Ensure track joints are smooth and level. Gently correct any kinks. Check track gauge with a gauge tool. Remove any debris. |
| No power to a section of track | Broken rail joiner, disconnected feeder wire, short circuit. | Inspect rail joiners and feeder wires. Test for continuity. Check for any metal objects bridging the rails causing a short. |
7. Specifications
- Model Number: SL-600
- Gauge: O Gauge
- Rail Code: 200 (0.200 inches / 5.08 mm)
- Length: 914 mm (36 inches) per section
- Material: Nickel Silver (rails)
- Sleeper Type: SM-32 Wooden Sleeper
- Manufacturer: PECO
- Item Weight: Approximately 6.69 pounds (for multiple sections, as per product data)
8. Warranty and Support
PECO products are manufactured to high standards. For specific warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official PECO website. In case of technical issues or questions not covered in this manual, please contact PECO customer support through their official channels.
Note: This product is intended for hobby use and is not a toy. Recommended for ages 14 and up.
