An Introduction To P64

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What is Proto:64?

Proto:64 is S scale (3/16" = 1') modeling using finer standards for track work and wheelsets. The most obvious difference between Proto:64 standards and NMRA/NASG S "scale" standards are the width of the wheels and the associated narrower flangeways. The existing NMRA S-4 standards use wider-than prototype wheels to compensate for less-than-fastidious track work.


NMRA/NASG Code 110 "Fine Scale" Wheel Profile	NMRA/NASG Code 124 "Course Scale" Wheel Profile	NMRA P64 Code 87 proto Wheel Profile Compared to NMRA/NASG RP25 Code 110 "Fine Scale" and Code 88 " XFine Scale" Wheel Profiles		Prototype Wheel Profile

Why Proto 64 now?

S scale standards were developed years ago when machining and molding techniques weren't as sophisticated as they are today. The resulting model work is still quite good but Proto:64 practitioners are striving for that "just like the prototype" look. Proto:64 takes advantage of finer tooling techniques and better materials. Don't get us wrong, we all come from the S scale world and some of us pick and choose Proto:64 standards to suit our on individual tastes. The glue that binds us is a desire to have the most realistic models in 3/16" scale.